Jeremy Roach and AJ Griffin help lead Duke past Virginia in Charlottesville
Updated: Mar 8, 2022
Coach K stated in the post game press conference that he thought Jeremy Roach was the key guy in the win over Virginia at John Paul Jones arena. Jeremy's consistent play along with late points from AJ Griffin helped seal the deal for the win in yet another close game with Virginia in what has become a rivalry over the past few years between these two teams. Virginia won the first matchup between these two teams at Cameron back on 2/7/22. Duke evened the series by winning 65- 61 at JPJ. Coach K even stated in the post game press conference that "just like the last game could have been ours, this game could have been theirs."
Before the start of the game Tony Bennett and Virginia honored Coach K with some kind words and a jersey plaque. Tony Bennett stated " “Your success is remarkable"...“And you stood the test of time.” Bennett went on to mention Coach K's wife, Mickie, in his speech by saying.. "the patience that a coach's wife needs is remarkable, and it's a partnership."
Coach K was appreciative of the words. He mentioned that it's a good thing that they can celebrate the brotherhood that's in the game.
" Tonight was beautiful, and it showed the brotherhood in our league and the respect that programs have for one another and that coaches have for one another. It meant a great deal to me. What they gave me weighs about 800 pounds", Coach K said with a smile.
This game was a battle for Duke. At times it seemed like Duke was going to try and pull away only for Virginia to chip their way back in the game and keep it close.
Tony Bennett stated that this was a.. "hard fought game.. you could feel electric atmosphere..”
Electric atmosphere it was as Coach K and Duke walked out of John Paul Jones arena with the win over Virginia in an epic road battle.
Duke has now won five games in a row and are 24 - 4 overall and sit alone at the top of the ACC standings at 14-3. There are three games left in the season. Up next is a road trip for Duke to Syracuse for a 6:00 PM game this Saturday.