No. 2 Duke delivered a statement performance in its 2024-25 season opener, dismantling Army 84-50 on Monday night in Durham, N.C. The Blue Devils extended their streak of season-opening victories to 27 consecutive games, marking their 19th straight season starting with a top-10 ranking. Dame Sarr led the offensive charge with 16 points, while freshman Patrick Ngongba II contributed 10. Duke’s dominance was defined by its control in the lane, where the team scored 50 points, and a relentless pace that generated a flurry of fast-break opportunities throughout the contest.
Youngest D1 player Boumtje Boumtje shines in debut as Blue Devils dominate the paint
The game featured a standout collegiate debut for 17-year-old Joaquim Boumtje Boumtje, the youngest active player in Division I basketball. Born in May 2009, the freshman posted 15 points, seven rebounds, and three blocked shots, establishing immediate physical presence on both ends of the floor. Duke’s early momentum was overwhelming, as the Blue Devils opened the game with a 12-0 run that left Army without a field goal for nearly the first six minutes. Although Army mounted a 12-0 run of its own in the second half on the strength of four three-pointers, Duke responded with an 11-0 spurt to start the second half, extending the lead to 44-18 and effectively deciding the outcome.
Army’s struggles were compounded by poor ball security, as the Black Knights committed 24 turnovers that fueled Duke’s transition offense. Kevin McCarthy led the Army attack with 17 points, but his efforts were insufficient to counter Duke’s interior strength and perimeter pressure. The decisive margin of victory underscores Duke’s readiness for a deep tournament run, highlighting a balanced roster capable of scoring from multiple angles. With the season officially underway, the Blue Devils have set a high bar for consistency, proving their ability to impose their will early and often against unranked opponents.
Source: Yahoo Sports
