A Swift Turn of Events

Everything shifted for Duke in a mere 10 seconds on Sunday evening. A combination of UConn’s suffocating defense, a crucial tipped pass by Cayden Boozer, and a decisive 3-pointer from Braylon Mullins completely altered the game’s trajectory, leaving the Blue Devils in shock.


Jon Scheyer’s Viral Moment

The chaotic nature of the game's final moments sparked intense reactions from those associated with Duke. Perhaps the most notable was that of head coach Jon Scheyer, who was captured on camera throughout the entire final possession.

Fans immediately took notice of Scheyer’s expression as the ball hung in the air. The Duke coach stood motionless, staring blankly as the shot sailed through the net with less than a second remaining.


Debates Over the Celebration

Scheyer was not the only one affiliated with Duke to show a strong reaction. The team's radio broadcaster argued that UConn should have been assessed a technical foul following Mullins’ game-winning basket.

While the announcer was technically correct according to the rulebook, officials have historically been lenient regarding celebration fouls during tournament play. Many argue this is the correct approach, as athletes and coaches should be permitted to celebrate significant milestones, provided they do not disrupt the game's flow. In this specific scenario, it appeared the clock had already expired when Malachi Smith stepped onto the court.


Grant Hill’s Disbelief

Former Duke star and current analyst Grant Hill also provided a memorable reaction. Alongside Bill Rafferty, Hill watched in astonishment as the final call was made by Ian Eagle.

Hill’s initial reaction was standard, but as the reality of the defeat set in, he offered a smirk before eventually placing his hands on his head in pure disbelief. Ultimately, Hill managed to regain his composure to offer professional analysis once the play-by-play commentary concluded.


Contrasting Emotions

While the Duke side processed a crushing defeat, the atmosphere was vastly different for the victors. Even family members were caught up in the intensity, with Dan Hurley’s mother providing a particularly colorful reaction to UConn’s triumph.

It was undeniably a heartbreaking loss for Duke, but the dramatic finish certainly provided plenty of memorable reactions from all involved.