Duke Rallies Past UNC 74-71 in Charlotte Thriller, Eyes ACC Crown

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Duke unleashed a devastating 15-0 run in the first half, surging from a 30-24 lead to a commanding 45-24 halftime advantage over North Carolina, the Tar Heels' largest deficit since their earlier Durham clash.[3][4] The No. 1 Blue Devils (30-3, 19-1 ACC) tip off at 7 p.m. Friday at Spectrum Center, dominating the paint and perimeter to build momentum in their 10th consecutive victory and 26th win in 27 games.[1][4] North Carolina (22-13, 13-7 ACC) mounted a desperate second-half rally, clawing back to within one point in the final minute, but Duke held firm for the 74-71 edge.[2][3][4] Highlights show the Tar Heels' late surge falling just short in the ESPN-televised thriller, avenging an earlier season loss.[2][5][7] The rivalry, one of college basketball's fiercest, drew massive local crowds to uptown Charlotte.[6] Duke now eyes the ACC Tournament championship Saturday night at Spectrum Center, a showcase of North Carolina hoops supremacy.[1][4] For UNC, the semifinal heartbreak ends a gritty tournament run, shifting focus to postseason implications amid the state's basketball heartland.[3][4]