The initial three minutes of Duke’s Sweet 16 matchup versus Houston couldn’t have gone worse. It felt like déjà vu for the Blue Devils as they found themselves trailing 8-0, reminiscent of their defeat to Tennessee in the same round last year. Coach Jon Scheyer urgently needed a solution, and he needed it quickly./cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/53738629/usa_today_9948235.0.jpg)
In stepped Ryan Young, an unlikely hero known more for his hustle than athleticism. Facing the most physically imposing team they had encountered all season, Young helped calm Duke’s nerves and bring them back into contention. By halftime, Duke had clawed back to take a one-point lead, with Young making a significant impact (+12 in the box score). By the game’s end, his contribution stood at a team-high +18.
In a game decided by just three points, Young’s performance proved not only remarkable but also invaluable.
Young becomes’s bench had been depleted since freshman guard Caleb Foster’s ankle injury, leaving Duke with little bench production. In the five games leading up to the Sweet 16, Duke ranked near the bottom in bench points per game across Division I teams.
While stars like Jeremy Roach and sophomores Kyle Filipowski and Tyrese Proctor made crucial plays, Duke couldn’t solely rely on them, especially against a physically imposing opponent like Houston. Young’s emergence as a key contributor was essential.
According to Filipowski, “We wouldn’t have won that game without Ryan.” Scheyer praised Young’s defensive prowess and physicality, emphasizing his crucial role in the victory.
Houston’s relentless offensive rebounding posed a significant threat, but Young’s experience and presence allowed Duke to compete on the boards. His ability to box out opponents and provide support in the paint relieved pressure on teammates like Filipowski.
Young’s impact wasn’t limited to defense; his rare dunk early in the second half energized the team and showcased his offensive contribution. Additionally, his screening provided crucial opportunities for teammates like Proctor and Roach, who could find Filipowski for scoring opportunities.
Even when foul trouble sidelined Young in the second half, Duke’s offensive confidence remained high, largely due to the foundation he helped establish.
The victory was a testament to the team’s collective effort, with key contributions from individual players like Young enabling Duke to seize control. As they inch closer to a national championship, the Blue Devils exemplify the importance of every player embracing their role for the team’s success.
