Kentucky vs Duke: College basketball history, NBA success, more to know ahead of meeting

LEXINGTON —Two of college basketball’s biggest brands square off Tuesday, when Kentucky and Duke tussle in this year’s Champions Classic in Atlanta.

The Wildcats and Blue Devils have defined excellence in the sport for decades. They’ve sent numerous players to the NBA, many of whom are among the league’s brightest stars today. And each program features iconic coaches, though both now have leaders in the early years of their tenures in Mark Pope and Jon Scheyer.

Here’s a breakdown of UK and Duke, from their on-court rivalry and NCAA Tournament success to NBA draft royalty, heading into Tuesday’s 9 p.m. tipoff:

Kentucky vs Duke basketball rivalry: Who leads series?

Kentucky owns the narrowest of advantages in the rivalry with Duke, entering Tuesday’s game up 12-11. But the Blue Devils have had their way recently, winning nine of the last 11 matchups, including the last two (2018 and 2021, both in the Champions Classic).

If Duke prevails Tuesday, it would be the first time the rivalry is tied since 1931, when it was 1-all.

The only time the Wildcats have ever trailed in the rivalry occurred after the first meeting in 1930, which the Blue Devils won, 37-32. After that, UK reeled off four straight victories and 10 of the next 11.

When was the last time Kentucky beat Duke in basketball?

Nov 17, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; Kentucky Wildcats guard Jamal Murray (23) moves past Duke Blue Devils guard Matt Jones (13) during the second half at the United Center. Kentucky won 74-63. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Wierzbicki-USA TODAY Sports

The Wildcats’ last triumph over the Blue Devils was nearly a decade ago.

Then-No.2 Kentucky topped then-No. 5 Duke, 74-63, on Nov. 17, 2015, in Chicago.

Where do UK and Duke rank on college basketball’s all-time wins list?

University of Kentucky basketball coach Adolph Rupp says farewell in Memorial Coliseum in 1972 during his final game.

The Wildcats have the most wins in college basketball history, with 2,400 following last week’s rout of Bucknell. The Blue Devils have…

Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/kentucky-vs-duke-college-basketball-101453830.html

Author : The Courier Journal

Publish date : 2024-11-11 10:14:00

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