Duke's Maliq Brown Shines in ACC Tournament

0:00On March 12, Duke heads into the ACC tournament as the top seed after a dominant regular season, finishing 29 wins and two losses overall, and 17 wins in one loss in conference play. They're chasing a third title in four years under coach John Shire, having outpaced every other team in the league. The Blue Devils bounce back strong from their only conference loss to North Carolina, filling off 8 straight victories with an average margin of, more than 23 points each time. That runs solidified their status as the ACC's best squad this year. Now, injuries have created some uncertainty, with sophomore center Patrick Ngongba and junior guard Caleb Foster sidelined for the entire tournament. Due to foot issues, Ngongba should return for the NCAA tournament, but Foster's status beyond that remains unclear, leaving Duke more exposed than at any point this season. That opens the door for senior forward Malik Brown, a six foot nine versatile defender from Syracuse, who's already the nation's leader in deflections.

1:03In his recent started center against the tar heels, he posted a career high 15 points, 10 rebounds, 5 steals, 2 assists, and a block over, 30 minutes. With extra playing time ahead, Brown has a prime shot to showcases all around impact, and boosts his NBA draft prospects, proving his value on both. Ends of the floor even without a reliable jumper. Duke fans will be watching closely as the tournament unfolds.