COLLEGE BASKETBALL
Duke comes in with elite early efficiency metrics, ranking first in the nation in the provided KenPom data and pairing that with a top-three offensive rating and top-two defensive rating. The Blue Devils have also started the year with strong shooting numbers, especially from the field and at the free throw line, while holding opponents to a very low scoring output in their first game. Coastal Carolina’s early profile is much less convincing. The Chanticleers have modest scoring output, average shooting efficiency, and a defense that has already shown vulnerability on the national stage. Their rebounding is respectable, but their offensive rating and defensive rating both point to a team that will struggle to keep pace with Duke for four quarters unless the game becomes unusually open from three-point range.
Duke should control this matchup from start to finish, using its defense to reduce Coastal Carolina’s scoring efficiency and its offense to build a comfortable lead. The projected final score is Duke Blue Devils 80, Coastal Carolina Chanticleers 61, which supports an under position based on a game script that favors Duke’s ability to slow the pace once it establishes control.
