Even after the unfortunate COVID-19 situation that caused Duke to forfeit their spot in the ACC Tournament, the hopes of the Blue Devils playing in the NCAA March Madness Tournament are still alive, per ESPN's Rece Davis.

Earlier this week, Duke found out that one of their players had tested positive for COVID-19. As a result, the Blue Devils had to forfeit their ACC Tournament matchup versus Florida State. Duke had made it into the second round of the ACC tournament after defeating Louisville.

Once the news of Duke's inability to play broke, it was assumed that their chances of making the NCAA Tournament ceased to exist. Most people and experts believed that Duke was going to have to win the ACC Tournament to give themselves an opportunity of playing in the NCAA Tournament.

However, despite their situation, and a poor regular season, Duke could still be able to participate in the NCAA Tournament as an at-large team. In addition, the Blue Devils could be considered by the NCAA committee as a replacement team. Should it be the case that another squad happens to have COVID-19 issues, then the Blue Devils might get the nod.

During the regular season, Duke didn't do themselves any favors, compiling a 13-11 record and a dismal 9-9 record against teams in the ACC. If the Blue Devils fall short, then it would be the first time the program hasn't played in the NCAA Tournament since the 1994-1995 season. While it still seems like a longshot for it to happen, Duke could still sneak into the NCAA Tournament.