UPDATE: In a nail-biting finish, Isaiah Evans hit a dramatic 3-pointer with just 19.7 seconds left, leading the fourth-ranked Duke Blue Devils to a 67-66 victory over the 15th-ranked Florida Gators on November 28, 2023. This win at Cameron Indoor Stadium marks a significant upset for the Blue Devils against the reigning national champions.
Evans struggled throughout the game, missing his first 7 attempts from beyond the arc. However, he remained focused and delivered when it mattered most. “That’s my job, I’ve got to stick it,” Evans said, reflecting on his game-winning shot that silenced the Gators and sent the home crowd into a frenzy.
This victory is crucial for Duke, as they aim to solidify their position in the rankings while facing increased defensive pressure. Coach Jon Scheyer acknowledged Evans’ growth despite his earlier shooting woes, stating, “It’s not always going to be your shot-making… I thought it showed great growth, really good maturity.” Evans finished the game with 13 points and a career-high 5 blocked shots, showcasing his versatility on both ends of the court.
The game was intense, with Florida pushing back after trailing by as much as 15 points. A pivotal moment came when Florida’s Boogie Fland drained a 3-pointer, putting the Gators ahead at 66-64 in the final minute. Duke quickly regrouped, with freshman sensation Cameron Boozer, who scored 29 points, setting up the play that led to Evans’ critical shot.
“We did a great job on Evans,” Florida coach Todd Golden remarked. “He only made one 3. Unfortunately, it was the last one of the night.”
With this win, Duke is now positioned for a strong season ahead, and fans are eager to see how the team will build on this momentum. Evans expressed his gratitude post-game, saying, “I’ve got to give praise to God on that one. I have no words for that. I shot it with confidence and it went in.”
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Evans and the Blue Devils as they prepare for their next matchup, aiming to continue their winning streak and improve their standings in the rankings.