2. Clemson Tigers - 8-1
An early road loss at Boise State highlighted some potential concerns for the Tigers, but they’ve been perfect since, beating San Fran and Penn State in the Sunshine Slam and recently winning at home over Kentucky in the SEC/ACC Challenge. Chase Hunter, who came back for an extra year, leads the team with 15.7 ppg.
However, a good case can be made that the MVP of Clemson is Ian Schieffelin, who is producing 12.3 ppg and 12.6 rpg, which is good for second nationally. Forwards Viktor Lakhin and Chauncey Wiggins are double-digit scorers, giving them plenty of size upfront. This unit has real potential, especially if the other backcourt players start scoring more.
1. Duke Blue Devils - 6-2
The Blue Devils have played four top teams on its schedule, splitting them 2-2. Wins over Arizona and Auburn will stack up nicely, with the team looking to build a top-4 seed profile for the Big Dance. Star freshman Cooper Flagg has played at an All-American level, leading the team with 16.6 ppg, 8.8 rpg, and 4.1 apg.
The rest of the roster has had their moments of stardom, including double-digit scorers Kon Knueppel and Tyrese Proctor. Coach Jon Scheyere is still working out the rotations with everyone and there will be ups and downs. But this team still has a chance to win the ACC and make a Final Four run.