Duke's Full Lineup Returns for NCAA Tournament

0:00It's March 26. Welcome to Durham News Today, powered by AI. I'm Kory with the story. Duke's Blue Devils, the number one overall seed in the 2026 NCAA tournament, could finally have their full lineup back for the first time. Since early March, their set to face 5th seeded St. John's in the East Region semi-finals at Capital One Arena on Friday night with both guard Caleb Foster and center Patrick Nungba, the second possibly ready to play. Foster has been out since a right foot fracture against North Carolina on March 7th, followed by surgery the next day. He got back on the court for a limited practice on Wednesday, and coach John Shire says it's a game time decision, but the freshmen is pushing hard to suit up. Meanwhile, N-Gongba missed several games due to foot soreness, but returns strong in the second round win over TCU, logging 13 minutes. Shire noted he responded well and expects him available again, calling it a huge boost for the team. Earlier expectations had Foster sidelined until maybe the final four, but his recovery has sped up

1:04faster than anyone thought. Freshman Caden Booser has stepped up in his place, yet Foster's experience averaging 8.5 points, 3.6 rebounds, and nearly. Three assists per game adds real toughness. A fully healthy Duke squad changes everything in this deep tournament run, setting up an even tougher challenge for St. John's as the Blue Devils. Chase another deep march run.