Maine Black Bears vs Duke Blue Devils Preview – November 4

The Duke Blue Devils, ranked No. 7 in the nation, kick off their 2024-25 season at Cameron Indoor Stadium with a highly anticipated game against the Maine Black Bears. This season opener on Monday night marks an especially meaningful debut for heralded freshman Cooper Flagg, who hails from Maine. The Black Bears will be looking to make an impression against a powerhouse program as they meet Duke for the first time since 2016.
Flagg’s talent has generated buzz nationwide, and Duke coach Jon Scheyer has high expectations for the freshman. “He has great instincts and is going to make some special plays,” Scheyer said. Flagg’s former hometown fans in Maine will be tuning in, adding an extra level of excitement to the season’s opening game.
Duke Ready to Showcase Depth and Talent
The Blue Devils enter the season with impressive depth. In addition to Flagg, Duke boasts a strong lineup, including returning guards Tyrese Proctor and Caleb Foster, along with transfer additions like Maliq Brown and Mason Gillis. Duke excelled in exhibition games, outscoring opponents by an average of 53.5 points, including an explosive second-half performance against Arizona State.
Freshman sharpshooter Kon Knueppel has already turned heads, averaging 18 points and shooting 52.9% from three-point range during preseason play. Duke’s balanced roster and shooting depth will be a challenge for Maine, which lacks the same experience in the post and has a lineup consisting of eight players over 6-foot-6.
Maine’s Challenges and Key Players
The Black Bears, who went 15-17 last season, return scoring guard Kellen Tynes, who led the team defensively with 2.3 steals per game and averaged 12.6 points. Alongside him, junior guard Jaden Clayton will manage the backcourt, with senior wing AJ Lopez adding depth. Maine coach Chris Markwood, who has followed Flagg’s development closely, acknowledges the challenge. “It’s going to be a hard task for us, a hard task for everybody,” he said.
Maine’s roster includes players with notable size, like Irish transfer Killian Gribben, who will be tasked with matching Duke’s post players. Gribben has international experience, having averaged 13 points and 10.7 rebounds for Ireland’s U20 team.
Prediction and Betting Pick
Duke enters the game as a heavy favorite, showcasing talent and depth in the preseason. With Flagg’s debut and Duke’s established lineup, the Blue Devils are expected to control the game, though Maine’s key returners may keep the game competitive for stretches.
- Prediction: Duke Blue Devils 92, Maine Black Bears 61