The Duke Blue Devils facing the LSU Tigers is one of the biggest fixtures in this ACC/SEC basketball challenge this week. Duke (3-5) is coming off a three-game losing streak while LSU has been on a roll, winning eight straight games by scoring 100 or more points. How will these two teams show up against each other for this matchup? Let’s find out.
Prediction
Duke faces its toughest challenge yet against LSU, though the matchup comes at a difficult time for the Blue Devils. Kara Lawson’s team has dropped four of its last five games, three of which came against ranked opponents, and its offense seems to lack rhythm. The absence of five-star freshman point guard Emilee Skinner, who has only appeared in two games due to a lower-body injury, has also limited their playmaking and consistency. Toby Fournier and Tania Mair are two of Duke’s top performers, with Fournier averaging 15.8 points and Mair averaging 5.5 assists, leading the team. For LSU, Flau’jae Johnson is leading the team, averaging 17 points, 3.4 assists. and 1.9 steals.
Despite some promising stretches against South Carolina in the Players Era tournament, Duke struggled with the Gamecocks’ superior size and physicality. LSU, meanwhile, has looked dominant offensively, surpassing 100 points in all eight games with seven players averaging double figures. A win could push Duke back toward national ranking consideration, while also offering insight into LSU’s ability to handle a more disciplined and defensive-minded opponent. Kim Mulkey’s consistent coaching standards have been showing it’s fruits, which the LSU Tigers are depicting with their performance.
ESPN’s matchup predictor estimates an 85.8% chance for LSU to win this matchup.
Lineup
Duke Lineup
PG: Taina Mair
SG: Ashlon Jackson
SF: Jadyn Donovan
PF: Toby Fournier
C: Delaney Thomas
LSU Lineup
PG: Flau’jae Johnson
SG: MiLaysia Fulwiley
SF: Amiya Joyner
PF: Grace Knox
C: Kate Koval
Injuries
As of now, there are no injuries reported for LSU and the team is expected to be fielded in full strength. For Duke, senior Emma Koabel will miss the entirety of this season due to a knee injury. Furthermore, Emilee Skinner might also be a game-time decision as she still recovers from her lower-body injury from last season.
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