In a significant update for the upcoming 2024 basketball season, Duke University has just confirmed another pivotal addition to its non-conference schedule.
Amidst a lineup featuring formidable opponents such as Arizona, Kentucky, Kansas, and Illinois, the Blue Devils have secured another home game, bolstering their schedule. Head coach Jon Scheyer has been diligently crafting the non-conference lineup, and the latest inclusion is a matchup against George Mason University.
Scheduled for December 7, the game marks the second home fixture for Duke next season. Earlier reports suggest that the season opener will see the Blue Devils face Maine, a nod to the home state of standout recruit Cooper Flagg and his family’s alma mater, on November 4.
Hailing from the Atlantic-10 Conference, George Mason concluded their previous season with a 20-12 record, reaching the quarterfinals of the conference tournament under the leadership of first-year head coach Tony Skinn. The team witnessed notable roster changes, with leading scorer Keyshawn Hall opting for a transfer to UCF, while securing a commitment from Auburn transfer K.D. Johnson, a former 4-star recruit and Top-100 prospect.
Johnson, who contributed 7.1 points per game for Auburn last season, brings valuable experience to the Patriots, having showcased his talents both at Auburn and earlier at Georgia, where he posted impressive numbers as a freshman.
While George Mason’s NCAA Tournament appearances have been scarce since the departure of head coach Jim Larranaga in 2011, the program remains renowned for its memorable Cinderella run to the Final Four in 2006.
December Date in Durham.#PatriotPressure pic.twitter.com/VwV6d0cpgU
— George Mason Men's Basketball (@MasonMBB) May 8, 2024
Duke’s schedule is marked by high-profile matchups, including clashes against Kentucky in the Champions Classic on November 12 and a showdown with Arizona in Tucson on November 21. Dates for additional games are yet to be finalized, although the highly anticipated meeting with Kansas in Las Vegas is anticipated to take place shortly before Thanksgiving.
With four more non-conference games to be added, Duke’s schedule promises a thrilling season ahead, further solidifying its status as a powerhouse in collegiate basketball.
Leave a Reply