Beating Duke in November is huge, not just for the win itself but for what it signals to recruits and the program’s trajectory. The victory over a powerhouse like Duke is an early statement that can reverberate through the rest of the season, showing the nation that your program is a legitimate contender. But the impact doesn’t stop there. After the win, signing two top 30 recruits is a testament to the momentum the program has gained. High-profile players want to join teams that are on the rise and demonstrate they can compete with the best.
A big early-season victory can alter a recruit’s perception, making them see the program as one that is already capable of competing at the highest level, which can be more attractive than a program still trying to prove itself. This early success can give coaches the leverage they need in recruiting, helping secure commitments that will pay off in future seasons.
So, never underestimate the power of November games. They matter more than just rankings and early-season chatter. They lay the foundation for the future—on and off the court. Every win, especially one against a team like Duke, sets the stage for bigger things to come.
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