Duke Wins Back-to-Back ACC Tournament Championships With Victory Over Virginia
DUKE WINS BACK-TO-BACK ACC TITLES | MARCH 14, 2026
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Championship Saturday in the ACC rarely disappoints, and this year’s title game delivered the drama and intensity fans have come to expect.
Top-seeded Duke entered the championship game looking to defend its conference crown. Standing in the way was Virginia, a team known for its defensive discipline and ability to control the pace of the game.
For 40 minutes, the two programs traded momentum.
In the end, Duke once again stood alone at the top of the conference.
The Blue Devils defeated Virginia 74-70, securing their second consecutive ACC Tournament championship.
First Half: Teams Trade Momentum
The championship game opened as a defensive battle.
Virginia’s disciplined defense slowed Duke’s transition offense early, forcing the Blue Devils into half-court possessions. Meanwhile, Virginia found success attacking the paint and generating second-chance opportunities.
The result was a tightly contested first half with neither team able to create separation.
Second Half: Duke Finds Offensive Rhythm
Duke began to create momentum midway through the second half.
Freshman guard Isaiah Evans led the Blue Devils with 20 points, hitting several key shots that pushed Duke ahead.
Guard Cayden Boozer added 16 points, while forward Cameron Boozer contributed 13 points, eight rebounds and eight assists.
Virginia continued to battle behind Malik Thomas (18 points) and Sam Lewis (17 points), keeping the game within reach until the final minutes.
Final Minutes: Free Throws Seal It
With the game tied late in the fourth quarter, Duke capitalized on Virginia fouls and converted several crucial free throws.
Those final possessions proved to be the difference as Duke secured the victory and another ACC championship.
Final Thoughts
The win improved Duke’s record to 32-2 and strengthened its case for a No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament.
For the Blue Devils, the ACC title represents another milestone in what has been one of the most dominant seasons in the country.
