Coach K and Duke are in the Final Four once again! Coach K is in the midst of his final season on the court and passed the legendary John Wooden for most Final Four appearances in Men's NCAA history with the win. He has undeniably established himself as one of the best coaches in sports history and will join the likes of Wooden amongst the greatest ever.
As for Duke, the Blue Devils took care of business on Saturday night against Arkansas. They entered play listed as around 3.5-5.5 point favorites according to the majority of top sports books. A.J. Griffin led the charge with 18 points on a highly efficient 7-9 shooting from the field. Paolo Banchero added 16 points, 7 rebounds, and 3 assists.
They shot over 54 percent from the field as a team and went 4-10 from beyond the arc. Their efficient shooting helped them overcome 15 turnovers for the game.
Coach K certainly made his presence felt throughout the game. Every time Arkansas was on the verge of making a run, he seemed to call a timeout and right the ship. Coach K cut down the nets following the victory and the Blue Devils celebrated on the court.
The Hall of Fame coach shared his thoughts on returning to the Final Four once again.
“There's nothing like being a regional champ and going to the Final Four and playing on that Saturday with three other champions. It's an amazing day.”
But they are from far from done, as the work is just beginning. Duke will look to get the job done in the Final Four as Coach K seeks one final NCAA Championship to close out his March Madness career.