Clemson Upsets No. 2 Duke, Snapping 16-Game Winning Streak

Cooper Flagg struggles with illness as Clemson's defense and strong inside play secure a pivotal ACC victory.

Clemson defeated No. 2 Duke 77-71, ending the Blue Devils' 16-game winning streak and their hopes of an undefeated ACC regular season.
Duke's star freshman Cooper Flagg, battling illness and cramping, had an uncharacteristic performance, shooting 6-of-17 and committing a critical late turnover.
Clemson's defense, led by Viktor Lakhin and Ian Schieffelin, held Flagg to just four points through the first 34 minutes and dominated the paint with a 40-22 scoring edge.
Duke coach Jon Scheyer acknowledged Flagg's heavy workload and emphasized the need to help him recover and regain energy for the remainder of the season.
The win boosts Clemson's confidence heading into the ACC Tournament and featured a standout 22-point performance by Lakhin, alongside a memorable return to commentary for ESPN's Dick Vitale after recovering from cancer.