Get ready for an exciting recap of the Duke vs. Florida State basketball game that took place on January 3, 2026! This thrilling encounter had it all, from career-high performances to a nail-biting finish.
Duke's Shooting Stars Shine Bright
In a highly anticipated matchup, the sixth-ranked Duke team showcased their talent and emerged victorious with a score of 91-87 against Florida State. Sophomore guard Isaiah Evans stole the show, scoring a career-high 28 points and surpassing his previous best of 23 points set earlier in the season. Evans' hot hand from beyond the arc, with six 3-pointers, was a sight to behold.
But here's where it gets controversial... Despite Duke's impressive shooting performance, with 12 3-pointers made, their front court height advantage didn't translate into a significant rebounding edge. Florida State kept the game close, outperforming Duke in 3-point shooting accuracy and overall field goal percentage.
Cameron Boozer, Duke's star player, contributed 17 points, nine assists (a season-high), and four steals. Meanwhile, Chauncey Wiggins, a transfer from Clemson, matched his career-high with 22 points, and Robert McCray V also scored 22 points with five assists.
And this is the part most people miss... Duke's ability to convert offensive rebounds into second-chance points was limited, with only 11 points generated from 10 offensive rebounds.
Florida State, despite their 7-8 record, put up a valiant fight. They closed the gap late in the game, with Kobe MaGee's 3-pointer bringing the score to 87-85 with just 23 seconds left. However, Duke's composure at the free-throw line sealed the deal, as Evans converted two crucial free throws to secure the win.
In the end, Duke's depth and talent prevailed, but Florida State's performance showcased their potential.
What do you think? Was Duke's victory a testament to their skill, or did Florida State's close call highlight their own strengths? Let us know in the comments!
