Duke Basketball Enjoys Biggest Ranking Jump Among ACC Teams

Duke basketball has climbed back to within one notch of the top 10 in the country.
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The 2023-24 Duke basketball team began the year at No. 2 in the Associated Press Top 25 Poll, fell as low as No. 22, and has now risen to No. 11 in the latest edition released on Monday.

As was the case last week, only two other ACC programs join the Blue Devils (11-3, 2-1 ACC), up three spots from last week and riding a six-game winning streak that dates back over a month, with rankings by their names this go-round.

Archrival UNC (11-3, 3-0 ACC) jumped from No. 8 to No. 7. And after suffering a 65-55 home loss to the Tar Heels on Saturday afternoon, Clemson (11-3, 1-2 ACC) dropped from No. 16 to No. 21.

Meanwhile, Duke boasts only a 1-1 record this season against currently ranked teams. On Nov. 10, the Blue Devils lost in Durham to now-No. 8 Arizona, 78-73. Then, on Dec. 20, they defeated now-No. 14 Baylor, 78-70, in their home away from home, Madison Square Garden.

Jon Scheyer and his second Duke basketball squad have a relatively easy slate ahead in January. After all, they won't face a currently ranked opponent until hosting Clemson in Cameron Indoor Stadium on Jan. 27.

RELATED: Jon Scheyer Puts Coach K's Early Record to Shame

Two of the Blue Devils' next four games are against Pitt (10-5, 1-3 ACC). That includes the next test, as the Panthers welcome them to the Petersen Events Center at 9 p.m. ET Tuesday (ESPN).

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Stay tuned to Blue Devil Country on SI.com for more Duke basketball news.


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Matt Giles
MATT GILES

Matt Giles is the editor and publisher of Duke Blue Devils on SI, North Carolina Tar Heels on SI, and NC State Wolfpack on SI, making him a key source for comprehensive coverage of these storied college basketball programs. Since joining SI in 2022, Matt has been dedicated to providing in-depth analysis, breaking news, and exclusive content on all three teams. He covers everything from game previews and recaps to player profiles and recruiting updates. Matt's expert knowledge of these teams has made his work a go-to resource for fans and followers of Duke, NC State, and UNC. As publisher, he shapes the editorial direction, ensuring that the most relevant and timely information reaches his audience.