Dicky V's presence made Duke season-opening win even more special

Nov 4, 2025; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Duke Blue Devils guard Dame Sarr (7) drives the ball against the Texas Longhorns during the first half of Dick Vitale’s Invitational game at Spectrum Center. | Cory Knowlton-Imagn ImagesThe Duke Blue Devils are officially 1-0 after defeating the Texas Longhorns in their season opener, and while a first-game win is always good, it was even more special with one college basketball icon on the sidelines.

Dick Vitale, who has battled cancer on and off again over the last few years, called the game, returning to his seat as one of the most beloved college basketball commentators in the world.

The game itself was the first-ever Dick Vitale Invitational…