What Duke Basketball Learned in First Action Against Another Opponent

For the last few months, the Duke Blue Devils have been discussed as a heavyweight national title contender entering the 2026-27 season, and arguably the best team in the entire sport.

Head coach Jon Scheyer and his staff built the deepest and one of the most talented rosters in college basketball, blending continuity, veteran presence, and elite all-around talent. However, Thursday night was the first time fans saw this roster on the floor, and Duke didn’t disappoint.

Oct 7, 2026; Charlotte, NC, USA; Duke Blue Devils head coach Jon Scheyer answers questions from the media during the ACC Tip-Off in Charlotte, NC. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

The Blue Devils looked the part in a 102-62 scrimmage victory over Belmont at Cameron Indoor Stadium. Duke already looks like it is operating at an elite level on the defensive end, and although this team might not be led by the most dominant force in the sport, as it has been the past two seasons, it has offensive options everywhere.

Oct 7, 2026; Charlotte, NC, USA; Duke Blue Devils Dame Sarr (7) answer questions from the media during the ACC Tip-Off in Charlotte, NC. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

What Duke Learned in Win Over Belmont

Sophomore Dame Sarr and freshman Joaquim Boumtje Boumtje were the offensive leaders for the Blue Devils, each scoring 19 points. Still, “depth” was probably the word most associated with this Duke team in the preseason, and that was clear on the offensive end.

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The Blue Devils shot 53.1% from the field, assisted on 16 of 34 made shots, and 10 different guys knocked down a bucket against the Bruins. Seven different players also made a three. Note that Caleb Foster (ankle) and Drew Scharnowski (knee) were both out with injuries.

Mar 29, 2026; Washington, DC, USA; Duke Blue Devils guard Caleb Foster (1) goes to the basket against UConn Huskies forward Jayden Ross (23) in the second half during an Elite Eight game of the…

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Publish date : 2026-10-10 13:42:00

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