Last season, Duquesne Basketball got a nice 66-62 home win over UC Irvine, one of the best mid-major programs in the country. This year, the programs are in opposite directions, with the Dukes currently 3-8, while the Anteaters are 10-1.
With respect to non-D1 Cleary, this matchup rounds out the non-conference for the Dukes and they could use a big win heading into Atlantic 10 play. Here are some keys to them having a shot at the home upset.
1. Defending Bent Leuchten
Last season, the 7’0 center didn’t play for Irvine when they played Duquesne. He will this time and has emerged as the team’s best player, averaging 15.2 ppg and 8.9 rpg. Leuchten had 29 points on the road at Weber State, coming off a 23-point and 15-rebound performance at Belmont in the team’s comeback win. The Dukes have three centers to throw at him and will need all to have an impact to slow him down.
2. Avoid limited droughts against Anteaters' defense
Even after giving up 84 points to Belmont, UC Irvine’s defense is still one of the best in the country. They ranked 6th in kenpom regarding defensive efficiency and only allow 62.5 ppg total. Only 23 teams score less than Duquesne, but their defense has improved, giving them hope to win a defensive slugfest. But every chance they have to score points, they need to because there won’t be many opportunities.
3. 10+ points from Cameron Crawford
Coach Dru Joyce made some changes in the last starting lineup against Towson, with Marshall transfer Crawford getting his first start of the season. It paid off, with him having a season-high 13 points in 32 minutes, making 3/5 from deep.
He’s one of the best two-way players who can score while providing energy and defense. He’s the kind of person the Dukes need plenty of to have the chance to beat Irvine, whether he starts again or comes off the bench.