Trailing by as many as 14 in the first quarter, Duke cut the deficit to seven by halftime and then shot 63% in the third quarter while outscoring the Pack 24-10 to take a seven-point lead into the fourth.

Almost exactly a year ago, the Blue Devils lost to the Wolfpack in the ACC quarterfinals. A month ago, they again lost to N.C. State behind 36 points from Aziaha James. This time though, not even James’ heroics could stop Duke from winning its first ACC championship under head coach Kara Lawson.

Oluchi Okananwa had 22 points and 10 rebounds to help No. 11 Duke rally from a 14-point deficit to beat No. 7 N.C.