A stifling Duke defense held CSUF to just 37.5% shooting from the field as the Titans failed to move on past the first round of NCAA Tournament play.
No. 15 Cal State Fullerton was unable to complete their upset bid over No. 2 Duke Friday afternoon, falling to the heavy favorite in a lopsided contest.
Six of eight Duke players scored in double-digit figures, led by NBA Draft favorite Paolo Banchero, who topped all scorers with 17 points and 10 rebounds.The Titans, coming off of a Big West Conference title, were handed one of the NCAA Men’s Tournaments toughest matchups from the get-go, as Duke finished the year 28-6 ranked No. 9 in the nation prior to tournament play.
They were led by senior guard Damari Milstead, who had 12 points on the day, and E.J. Anosike, who had a 10 point, 10 rebound double-double. Despite winning the turnover battle, 13-8, CSUF was unable to capitalize on their opportunities shooting just 37.5% from the field and 27.9% from three point range. This may have had to do with a staggering nine blocks from the Blue Devils’ defense, who stifled an otherwise well-developed Titans offensive attack.It would have been difficult regardless, as Duke took full advantage of the weaker matchup, shooting over 50% throughout the entire game, also nailing 43% of three-pointers.