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Duke Upsets No. 2 Seed Ohio State to Advance to Sweet 16
Following a first round where higher seeds dominated with a 31-1 record, Duke pulled off an upset in the second round to secure a spot in the Sweet 16 for the first time since 2018. The Blue Devils overcame a 16-point deficit to eliminate the No. 2 seed Ohio State in a thrilling game held in Columbus.
During the game, Duke showcased a remarkable comeback by scoring 12 of the final 14 points in the second quarter, eventually taking complete control of the match. The Blue Devils’ stellar performance continued in the second half, with an impressive shooting percentage of 61.9%, marking one of their best offensive displays of the season.
Impact on the NCAA Tournament
After a streak of higher seeds prevailing in the tournament, Duke’s victory altered the landscape of the games. The Blue Devils’ triumph over Ohio State, the Big Ten regular-season champion, highlighted the unpredictable nature of March Madness. The Buckeyes struggled with their shooting efficiency, allowing Duke to capitalize on their offensive prowess and secure a remarkable comeback victory.
One standout performer for Duke was Reigan Richardson, who emerged as a key player in the tournament. Richardson’s impressive scoring abilities, including a 28-point performance against Ohio State, have solidified her status as a standout player in the competition. Duke’s young roster, featuring five freshmen players, combined with Richardson’s stellar play, has propelled them into the Sweet 16.
Outlook for Ohio State
For Ohio State, the loss to Duke marks a disappointing end to their postseason journey. Despite strong individual performances, such as Cotie McMahon’s 27 points, the Buckeyes fell short in crucial areas like rebounding and three-point shooting. The defeat signals the conclusion of the road for key players like Jacy Sheldon, Celeste Taylor, and others, adding to the Buckeyes’ disappointment.
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