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By Rowan Fisher-Shotton
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Duke enjoyed another dominant season as college basketball turns its attention to March Madness, which tips off Thursday.
A 30-plus win season, an ACC title, and the No. 1 overall seed had positioned the Blue Devils as the team to beat.
But there was still a lingering question: was their freshman-led core truly battle-tested enough for a three-week NCAA Tournament grind?
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On Tuesday, that conversation shifted decisively.
Duke superstar Cameron Boozer was officially named a first-team Associated Press All-American, headlining a group that includes Michigan’s Yaxel Lendeborg, Texas Tech’s JT Toppin, BYU’s AJ Dybantsa, and Arkansas’ Darius Acuff.
Boozer was a unanimous choice, underscoring his status as the most dominant and consistent player in college basketball this season.
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Boozer’s lone season in Durham has been nothing short of historic.
The 6-foot-9 forward averaged 22.5 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game, adding 1.5 steals and 0.5 blocks while showcasing elite versatility on both ends.
He’s also already stacked accolades, including ACC Tournament MVP, ACC Rookie of the Year, and The Sporting News National Player of the Year.
More importantly, his impact translated directly to winning.
Duke captured its second straight ACC Tournament title and enters March Madness as the No. 1 overall seed in the 68-team bracket.
The Blue Devils also finished atop the final AP Top 25 rankings, reinforcing their position as the national favorite.
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With Boozer leading the way, Duke profiles as a complete title contender.
The Blue Devils boast elite half-court defense, depth across the rotation, and multiple scoring options, with Boozer anchoring it all as a centerpiece capable of initiating offense, controlling the glass, and closing games.
Still, the path won’t be easy.
Programs like Arizona, Michigan, and Florida, also No. 1 seeds, bring veteran talent and high-end athleticism.
Meanwhile, UConn, Michigan State, and Kansas, lurking on Duke’s side of the bracket, add even more volatility to an already unpredictable field.
However, in a tournament setting where possessions slow down and execution matters, having the nation’s most complete player is often the ultimate trump card.
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