Duke's Freshmen Shine in March Madness

0:00It's March 22nd, Durham News Today starts now, AI-powered and ready. Duke's freshman stars are getting a real taste of March madness now. The Blue Devils punch their ticket to the Sweet 16 with an 81-58 round of TCU in the second round of the East region. It all ties back to that non-conference win over Top Ranked Michigan last month at Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C., which coach John Shire set up like a tournament preview. They start a strong in Greenville, South Carolina, beating CNS 71 to 65 in the first round before pulling away from TCU. That Michigan game used the official NCAA ball, helping the team get familiar with the big stage and the venue they're returning to for the regional. Semi's. Players like Nicholas Kamenia say nothing fully prepares you for the intensity, where every possession counts and one loss ends at all. Still, the freshmen agree the early-trip bill comfort and sharpen their edge against tough competition. Next challenge is the winner of Sunday St. John's versus Kansas matchup Out West.

1:04Duke already handled Kansas earlier this season, 78 to 66, and Shire's halftime tweaks have been spot on, shutting down opponents. Lake. Injuries tested them with the key guards still out, but the squad adapted, overcoming deficits and turnovers to prove their depth. These early tests are building a battle-hardened group ready for whatever comes next at that familiar arena.