Duke Demolishes Illinois in Record-Breaking Win at Madison Square Garden

Duke basketball delivered its most dominant performance of the season Saturday night, crushing Illinois 110-67 at Madison Square Garden. The victory marked Duke’s largest margin of victory ever at the historic venue and handed Illinois its worst loss in program history.

From the opening possession, Duke (24-3, 15-1 ACC) set the tone as Sion James knocked down an early three-pointer. The Blue Devils never looked back, maintaining control throughout the game. Seven players contributed offensively in the first half, with Tyrese Proctor and Isaiah Evans leading the way with 10 points each.

Illinois (17-11, 9-8 Big Ten) struggled from beyond the arc, missing its first 16 three-point attempts. Despite making 15 of 18 two-point shots, the Illini still trailed 54-37 at halftime. Duke put the game out of reach early in the second half with a 9-0 run, fueled by Cooper Flagg and Kon Knueppel.

The Illini finished just 2-of-26 from three-point range, while Duke shot an efficient 55.6% from the field and 52.5% from deep. Flagg, limited by first-half foul trouble, came alive in the second half, finishing with 16 points, seven rebounds, and five assists, thrilling the crowd with two breakaway dunks.

Evans led all scorers with 17 points in just 18 minutes, and Duke had seven players score in double figures for the first time since 2017.

Illinois, now on a three-game losing streak, returns to Big Ten action, while Duke resumes ACC play Tuesday night against Miami (6-21, 2-14 ACC).

Duke Dominates Illinois for Largest Win in Madison Square Garden History

Duke basketball delivered a historic performance at Madison Square Garden, crushing Illinois in a dominant victory that marked the program’s largest margin of victory at the iconic venue.

The Blue Devils controlled the game from start to finish, showcasing their offensive firepower and defensive intensity. Led by standout performances from their top scorers, Duke built an early lead and never looked back, overwhelming the Fighting Illini with relentless pressure and efficient shooting.

Illinois struggled to keep pace, unable to break through Duke’s defense or slow down its offensive rhythm. By the final buzzer, the margin of victory had set a new benchmark for Duke’s dominance at MSG, cementing the game as one of the most lopsided victories in the arena’s storied basketball history.

This statement win reinforces Duke’s status as a national powerhouse and a serious contender moving forward.