Following Saturday’s matchup between the Duke Blue Devils and North Carolina Tar Heels, we break down our instant reactions.

The 82-69 win was impressive, despite it being against an unranked team. Rivalry games can always go either way, especially this one. However, earning this victory was a very important way to end the regular season and continue to prove the Blue Devils are the top team in the country.

Cole Cloer, a lifelong Tar Heel enthusiast, became the first UNC basketball offer recipient on the 2026 recruiting trail last May. And in early January, the Caldwell Academy (N.C.) forward listed Hubert Davis and his staff among his most active suitors.