As March Madness approaches, the dominant Duke Blue Devils seem poised to challenge rival North Carolina for the 2024 ACC regular season championship.
Despite early struggles, eighth-ranked Duke (21-5, 12-3 ACC) has won 16 of its last 18 games. This includes five straight victories by over 15 points on average.
North Carolina Making Its Case
Number ten North Carolina (20-6, 12-3) remains tied with Duke atop the ACC standings. The Tar Heels hope their success continues into March Madness where they’ll aim for a high NCAA Tournament seeding.
Still, the Blue Devils aren’t far behind. And after claiming last year’s ACC Tournament title, Duke seeks to win consecutive championships in Washington D.C. next month.
Questioning Duke’s Toughness
For all its recent dominance, doubts linger whether Duke is tough enough for a deep March run. Duke coach Jon Scheyer challenges that notion.
“How many teams nationwide have 20 wins without that toughness?” Scheyer asked. “You can’t get 20 wins lacking those qualities.”
He highlights a fair point. In addition to its lofty record, Duke has prevailed in six of seven recent road games. Previously, the team struggled away from home. The Blue Devils now boast as many road wins as top teams like Houston and Arizona.
Duke’s Numbers Trending Up
Statistically, Duke is surging on both ends of the court. Its offensive and defensive efficiency continue rising per KenPom.com. If this trend persists, it would mark Duke’s first top-25 units on offense and defense since 2019-2020.
In the past, similar efficiency accompanied deep NCAA Tournament runs for the Blue Devils. More signs emerge that Duke is gearing up for a potential championship push.
Scheyer Backs His Team
Coach Scheyer denies claims his group lacks the required toughness. “I know the competitors we have in that locker room,” he said. Scheyer points to the adversity Duke has already overcome this year.
“There’s a long way to go this season,” Scheyer noted. “But they’ve shown me what they’re made of.”
If Duke keeps improving, it may be well-positioned for March hardware. First comes settling the ACC title race with its fierce rival North Carolina.
The Latest on North Carolina Sports Betting
North Carolina launched its sports betting market in March 2023. Since then, sportsbook operators like BetMGM have invested heavily in the Tar Heel State.
New North Carolina customers at BetMGM can use the current BetMGM North Carolina bonus code. This provides $1,000 in first bet insurance to kickstart sports betting accounts.
With March Madness upcoming plus the ACC and NCAA Tournaments on the horizon, North Carolina sports fans have ample wagering opportunities. Expect intense betting action around UNC, NC State, Duke, and Wake Forest basketball this spring.
Professional franchises like the Hurricanes, Hornets, and Panthers attract betting as well. Legal North Carolina sports betting is still in its early stages but stands for significant long-term growth. And the BetMGM North Carolina bonus code offers a prime way sports fans can utilize the state’s new betting market as it expands.
