Regional Final Duke vs. Kansas: Preview and Prediction

This is the only bracket that went according to plan, as you have two powerhouse programs squaring off for a trip to the Final Four. Both teams have been at times inconsistent, but both have been playing very well as of late.

How Kansas Wins?

Kansas is not as talented as usual, but their ability to play as a cohesive unit cannot be denied and makes them a dangerous matchup for any team they play. Duke has played a 2-3 zone for much of the season but Kansas has the weapons to dent that zone in senior guards Devonte’ Graham and Sviatoslav Mykhailiuk, who average 40.4% and 45.5%, respectively, from three-point range. Sophomore seven-footer Udoka Azubuike, meanwhile, can overpower opponents inside and cause a difficult matchup situation for Duke. The biggest factor in this game could be if Azubuike can stay out of foul trouble. He fouled out against Clemson and that could sink the Jayhawks in this game.

How Duke Wins?

Marvin Bagley has been nearly unstoppable with three consecutive 22-point games. Defensively they have played lights out so far in this year’s tournament, only allowing 64 points per game through the first three games of the tournament. If Duke can control the game with the 2-3 Zone they employ and Bagley has his normal day, Duke will have a great chance to win this game. Add this factor in: If Grayson Allen can shoot 50% this game will be a wrap. Allen played well in every facet on Friday night, except he shot the ball terribly. If Allen is hitting his shots the Devils will take Coach K once again to the Final Four.

Prediction: This will be a close, hard-fought game and I think the stars of Duke will be the difference, especially Allen who I think will have a big game.

Duke 75  Kansas 71