ACC men’s basketball power rankings: Duke dominating, UNC sliding ahead of rivalry game

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In recent days, a question has been raised — is it more likely that Duke men’s basketball finishes this season undefeated in ACC play or that Miami goes winless?

The Blue Devils’ dominance has been unquestionable, while the Hurricanes have been the clear worst team in the conference to this point, with an 0-10 mark against ACC opponents.

Where do teams in between Duke and Miami rank? Here’s where the ACC’s 18 programs stand:

(These rankings take into account games through Wednesday, Jan. 29)

REQUIRED READING: Will Duke basketball’s Maliq Brown play vs UNC basketball? Jon Scheyer provides injury update

ACC basketball power rankings

1. Duke

After largely coasting through their first eight ACC games, the Blue Devils have had to sweat — or, in Khaman Maluach’s case, puke — it out just a bit lately, beating Wake Forest and NC State by seven and 10 points, respectively.

2. Louisville

Louisville’s stellar run under Pat Kelsey continues, with 10 straight wins. Over the past five games, sharpshooter Reyne Smith has made 28 of 56 3-pointers.

3. Clemson

Clemson has been known as a defensive force under Brad Brownell, but they’re 26th in offensive efficiency this season, according to KenPom.

4. Pitt

Pitt has recovered nicely, winning two in a row after a four-game skid. Zack Austin was a force in a win against North Carolina, scoring 15 points on seven shot attempts and blocking five shots.

5. SMU

SMU has won five of its past six, though a home game against Stanford Saturday should provide a stiff test.

6. Wake Forest

After falling to Duke by seven and suffering a 13-point loss to Louisville that was uglier than the final score indicated, Wake Forest’s opportunities for Quad 1 wins are waning.

REQUIRED READING: UNC basketball is a big underdog at Duke. Here’s what history says about the Tar Heels’ upset chances

7. Stanford

At 15-6, Stanford has already surpassed its win total from last season — with 10 regular-season games remaining.

8. North Carolina

It’s tougher to find a bigger…

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Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/acc-mens-basketball-power-rankings-195833837.html

Author : The Fayetteville Observer

Publish date : 2025-01-30 19:58:00

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