In a thrilling clash that had fans on the edge of their seats, Duke University’s women’s basketball team triumphed over NC State, winning the 2025 women’s ACC basketball tournament championship with a score of 76-62. The decisive game took place on March 9th at the First Horizon Coliseum in Greensboro, North Carolina, marking a memorable comeback for the Blue Devils.
Duke Secures Championship After a Dramatic Comeback
At the start of the game, Duke found themselves in a tough spot, trailing by 14 points during the first half. However, the Blue Devils demonstrated incredible determination and skill, turning things around spectacularly. With their teamwork and resilience shining through, they not only closed the gap but surged ahead by the final whistle. This incredible comeback not only shocked the crowd but also showcased Duke’s potential as a powerhouse in women’s basketball.
Star Performers: Okananwa and Jackson Shine Bright
Leading the charge for Duke were Oluchi Okananwa and Ashlon Jackson, both scoring 22 points each in this championship battle. Okananwa, whose points marked a personal best for her, dazzled with her on-court moves. Jackson, with her sharp shooting and clever plays, made sure the NC State defense had a tough time keeping up. Their combined effort was a critical factor in sealing the victory for Duke, and fans were thrilled to witness such extraordinary talent on display.
A Historic Victory for Duke
This win is particularly significant for the Blue Devils, as it marks their first ACC tournament championship title since 2013. It also represents the ninth overall championship for the Duke women’s basketball program. Coach Kara Lawson, who took the helm of the team, celebrated her first ACC tournament title, solidifying her impact and vision for the team.
What’s Next for Both Teams?
As the dust settles from this exciting tournament finale, Duke looks ahead with high hopes for upcoming challenges. With a strong team and fresh confidence, they aim to make a deep run in the NCAA tournament. On the other hand, NC State, showing strong performance throughout the tournament despite the loss, will surely regroup and return with renewed energy and lessons learned for their future matches.
Follow the Action: Where to Watch
For those interested in keeping up with the tournament action, all games were broadcast live on ESPN. Fans can also find updates and highlights online for additional insights into each team’s performance as they navigate through the season.
Quick Stats from the Championship Game
| Statistic | Duke | NC State |
|---|---|---|
| Points | 76 | 62 |
| Top Scorer | Oluchi Okananwa, 22 pts | — |
| Half-Time Score | 35 | 49 |
| Championship Wins | 9 | — |
This championship game not only entertained fans but also reinforced the excitement and competitiveness in women’s college basketball. With intense matches like these, the future looks bright for women’s sports. Keep your eyes on Duke and NC State as they continue their journeys, and remember, every game is a chance for new stories and thrilling moments!
