Duke Basketball: 3 keys to beat Kentucky in 2021-22 Champions Classic

NEW YORK, NY - NOVEMBER 15: A general view during the National Anthem prior to the game between the Michigan State Spartans and the Kentucky Wildcats during the State Farm Champions Classic at Madison Square Garden on November 15, 2016 in New York City. (Photo by Lance King/Getty Images) /

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Duke Basketball guard Jeremy Roach Rob Kinnan-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Showcase the variety of playmakers

Duke basketball has Jeremy Roach set to lead the way at the point guard spot, but he won’t be the only one looking to make plays for them this season. Wendell Moore Jr. has been one name that’s

They showcased an interesting rotation of playmakers in their opening exhibition game this past Saturday against Winston Salem State. As they find their identity in their final run under Coach K, it will be interesting to see if there’s some carryover from their easy victory.

The Blue Devils dished out 26 assists on 38 made shots, which is impressive to think about when recognizing they put up 106 points with six players finishing in double-figures. They didn’t eclipse 100+ points once in 2020-21.

Roach led the way with seven assists, Moore finished with six, Trevor Keels finished with four assists and Theo John finished with three assists. Among the four of them, they finished with a combined three turnovers.

If the Blue Devils can replicate sharing the ball with the variety of playmakers in this year’s rotation, victory should be easy to come by with this group. There’s certainly a different energy already with this squad and it starts with everyone being willing to make the extra pass on offense.

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