How To Beat The 2025 Duke Blue Devils (35-3):
By Long-Time Santa Clara Coach Kerry Keating
By Mike Waddell
North Carolina Sports Network
In a special edition of the Tobacco Road basketball show, “Time-Out,” host Mike Waddell and long-time Santa Clara head coach Kerry Keating discuss this week’s Final Four games.
Keating highlights the intense preparation coaches face, the excitement of open practices, and the significance of the Final Four for coaches and players.
The coach also analyzes the matchup between Florida and Auburn, noting the Gators’ offensive prowess and the Tigers’ underdog mentality. In the Duke-Houston game, Keating emphasizes the Cougars’ defensive strengths, particularly their on-ball pressure and rebounding, and the Blue Devils’ need to disrupt their opponent’s flow with various offensive strategies.
Both games promise high stakes and strategic battles.
All-SEC Matchup: #1 Florida vs. #1 Auburn
* Waddell and Keating discuss the Southeastern Conference matchup between Florida and Auburn (Sat., 6:09 p.m., CBS), noting the familiarity between head coaches Bruce Pearl and Todd Golden.
* Keating explains how the previous game between these teams provides insights but also acknowledges the potential for new strategies.
* He predicts Florida will have the edge due to the Gators’ recent strong performances and the dynamic play of All-American guard Walter Clayton Jr.
* Keating highlights the physical and defensive strengths of both teams, suggesting a high-stakes, physical game.
#1 Duke vs. #1 Houston: Elite Offense vs. Elite Defense
* Waddell introduces the Duke-Houston matchup, noting the historical connection between Cougars head coach Kelvin Sampson and the state of North Carolina.
* Keating emphasizes Houston’s defensive prowess, particularly their ability to pressure the ball and rebound effectively.
* He discusses the importance of controlling tempo and the challenges Duke faces with its high-scoring offense against Houston’s stifling defense.
* Keating outlines key strategies for Duke, including using ghost screens and delay actions to counter Houston’s ball pressure.
Film Breakdown: Duke’s Offensive Actions
* Keating provides a detailed breakdown of Duke’s offensive actions, using film clips from the Blue Devils’ game against Alabama.
* He explains how Duke uses short roll lobs and twirl actions to create scoring opportunities.
* Keating discusses the importance of disrupting Houston’s defense by using ghost screens and delay actions.
* He highlights the need for Duke to exploit over-help situations and create quick transition opportunities.
