Jon Scheyer, Duke's head coach, was notably absent from the game against SMU due to illness, marking his first missed game in his three-year tenure. In his place, associate head coach Chris Carrawell took the reins. Carrawell, a former Duke basketball player and All-American guard, has been part of the coaching staff since 2018. Despite Scheyer's absence, Carrawell effectively led the team to victory, maintaining Duke's strong performance throughout the game. Scheyer is expected to return for Duke's upcoming game against Pittsburgh [1] [2].

Duke's victory over SMU was bolstered by key performances from several players. Cooper Flagg played a crucial role, particularly in the second half, helping Duke extend their lead with a decisive 3-point jumper. His efforts were complemented by junior Tyrese Proctor, who initially gave Duke a 10-point lead with two quick 3-pointers. Despite a brief scoring drought and some costly fouls, Duke maintained their advantage thanks to Flagg's offensive pressure and Proctor's adjustments on the court. The Blue Devils' ability to capitalize on 3-pointers, with a 40.7% shooting percentage from beyond the arc, was instrumental in their success [1].

This game was significant as it marked the first meeting between Duke and SMU in nearly four decades, adding a layer of historical importance to the matchup. Despite the absence of their head coach, Duke managed to maintain their dominance, showcasing their depth and resilience as a team. The Blue Devils are now looking ahead to their next game against Pittsburgh, with Scheyer expected to return to the sideline. This victory not only reinforces Duke's strong start to the season but also highlights the team's ability to adapt and perform under unexpected circumstances [2] [3].