Duke Blue Devils On SI · Yesterday
Blue Devil Nation Reacts to Tough Champions Classic Defeat
The Duke Blue Devils still have a lot of room to improve, and that's a good thing.
Duke was hit with its first loss of the 2026-27 season, falling to No. 5 Michigan State in the Champions Classic, 79-73. Michigan State was the better defensive team tonight, but the Blue Devils showed the grit to stay in it.
The Spartans were in control for practically the entire game. Both teams played good defensive games, but the physicality and connectivity from Tom Izzo's club on that side of the floor were clear.
Elite Michigan State Defense Hurts Duke