How Maliq Brown and Caleb Foster Boosted Duke Basketball in Comeback Win at UNC for ACC Title
In college basketball, few rivalries are as intense and storied as the one between the Duke Blue Devils and the North Carolina Tar Heels. This long-standing clash between two of the most iconic programs in the sport is always one of the highlights of the college basketball season. But when these two teams meet with an ACC title on the line, the stakes are even higher. On March 9, 2025, the Duke Blue Devils staged an incredible comeback to defeat the North Carolina Tar Heels in the ACC Championship game, with a final score of 79-74. The win not only handed Duke its 22nd ACC title but also further solidified the growing legacy of head coach Jon Scheyer.
The game was a thriller, full of drama, momentum shifts, and key performances from several players. However, it was the stellar play of two young stars, Maliq Brown and Caleb Foster, that truly made the difference in Duke’s comeback win. Both players delivered exceptional performances when the Blue Devils needed them most, showcasing the promise of Duke’s future while also proving that the program’s culture of resilience and determination remains as strong as ever under Scheyer’s leadership.
This article will dive into how Maliq Brown and Caleb Foster played pivotal roles in Duke’s dramatic victory, the impact of their performances on the game, and what this win means for both the team’s present and future as the Blue Devils continue their quest for NCAA supremacy.
The Rivalry: Duke vs. North Carolina
The Duke-North Carolina rivalry is one of the most famous in college basketball history. These two teams have met countless times, and their matchups are often defined by high stakes, passionate fanbases, and legendary performances. In 2025, the rivalry took on an even greater significance with both teams having strong seasons, making their ACC Championship clash all the more compelling.
North Carolina, under head coach Hubert Davis, entered the game as the defending ACC champions and had a talented squad led by star players like Armando Bacot, a senior center with a reputation as one of the most dominant forces in college basketball. The Tar Heels had earned the No. 2 seed in the ACC Tournament and were expected to make a deep run in March Madness. Duke, on the other hand, had rebounded from a turbulent first year under Jon Scheyer, with the team finishing the season strong and entering the ACC Tournament as one of the hottest teams in the conference. The Blue Devils’ roster featured a balanced mix of veteran leadership and young talent, with two standout players—Maliq Brown and Caleb Foster—capturing the attention of fans and analysts alike.
As expected, the atmosphere at the game was electric, with both teams feeding off the energy of their passionate fanbases. The ACC Championship was on the line, and both teams were determined to claim the prestigious title. The game began with North Carolina taking an early lead, capitalizing on their veteran players’ experience and making key shots to put Duke on the ropes.
However, as the game progressed, it became clear that the Blue Devils had no intention of backing down. They had a secret weapon: two rising stars in Maliq Brown and Caleb Foster, who would lead their team through adversity and ultimately secure the win.
Maliq Brown: The Rising Star Who Took Control
Maliq Brown, a 6’9” forward out of Chesterfield, Virginia, had already established himself as one of the most promising freshmen in the 2025 class. Known for his versatility, athleticism, and basketball IQ, Brown was a key component of Duke’s offense and defense throughout the season. His ability to stretch the floor, finish at the rim, and contribute on the defensive end made him a matchup nightmare for opposing teams. However, his performance in the ACC Championship game would elevate him to national prominence, as he played a crucial role in Duke’s second-half surge.
Early in the game, North Carolina’s physical play and experienced roster gave them the advantage, and Duke struggled to find its rhythm. The Tar Heels built a solid lead, especially in the first half, with Bacot dominating in the paint and creating second-chance opportunities for his teammates. At halftime, the Blue Devils were down by 10 points, and many were wondering whether they could mount a comeback against their bitter rivals.
But Maliq Brown, who had been a steady contributor throughout the season, stepped up in a big way. Early in the second half, he displayed his all-around game by hitting key shots, pulling down crucial rebounds, and defending with intensity. His athleticism allowed him to match up with Bacot in the post, and his energy ignited Duke’s comeback. Brown’s ability to stretch the floor with his three-point shooting was particularly important, as it forced North Carolina to adjust their defensive coverage, creating space for other Duke players to get involved.
Midway through the second half, with Duke trailing by 8 points, Brown took over. On consecutive possessions, he grabbed rebounds in traffic and converted them into fast-break points. He also drained a critical three-pointer from the top of the key that cut the Tar Heels’ lead to just 5 points. This sequence of plays sparked the Blue Devils and gave them the confidence they needed to fight back.
But it wasn’t just his scoring that made the difference—Brown’s defense was equally impactful. He was tasked with guarding Bacot for large stretches of the second half, and while Bacot still managed to get some points, Brown’s length and agility allowed him to contest shots and prevent easy baskets. He also contributed on the help side, blocking a critical shot late in the game that helped preserve Duke’s momentum. Brown’s two-way play not only helped the Blue Devils close the gap but also set the tone for the final moments of the game.
Caleb Foster: The Floor General Who Delivered When It Mattered
While Maliq Brown was providing a scoring spark for Duke, Caleb Foster, the 6’5” point guard from Durham, North Carolina, was orchestrating the offense and running the show. Foster’s maturity and poise under pressure have been hallmarks of his game since he arrived at Duke. As a freshman, he quickly earned the trust of head coach Jon Scheyer and became the Blue Devils’ primary ball handler. His vision, playmaking ability, and defensive presence made him a standout player throughout the season.
In the ACC Championship game, Foster’s leadership was on full display. Early in the second half, when Duke was struggling to find its footing, Foster took control of the offense. He set up his teammates for open shots, frequently driving the lane and drawing defenders before dishing out assists. His ability to read defenses and make quick decisions in fast-break situations allowed Duke to generate easy baskets, which was critical in their comeback bid.
Foster’s scoring ability also played a crucial role in Duke’s success. With the Blue Devils still trailing by a significant margin, Foster stepped up as a scorer, hitting key shots and getting to the free-throw line. His three-pointer from the left wing with just under 5 minutes remaining in the game tied the score at 70-70, sending the Duke fans into a frenzy. Foster’s composure in clutch moments was evident, as he calmly knocked down free throws in the final seconds to seal the victory for the Blue Devils.
Defensively, Foster was equally effective. His quickness and length allowed him to guard multiple positions, and he was instrumental in pressuring North Carolina’s backcourt throughout the game. Foster’s defense disrupted the Tar Heels’ offensive flow, and his steal in the final minutes helped seal the game. When the Blue Devils needed a stop, Foster was often the one who came up with the crucial play.
The Turning Point: Duke’s Momentum Shift
Duke’s comeback in the second half wasn’t just about the individual performances of Brown and Foster—it was also a collective team effort. With about 10 minutes left in the game, the Blue Devils finally took the lead for the first time in the second half, and from that point on, they never looked back. The momentum had completely shifted, with Duke’s defense forcing North Carolina into turnovers and missed shots.
Maliq Brown and Caleb Foster were both instrumental in this shift, but the entire team’s effort was evident. Players like Tyrese Proctor, a sophomore guard who was quietly having an efficient game, contributed key plays that allowed the Blue Devils to maintain their advantage. The collective energy and determination of Duke were palpable, and it was clear that the team was not going to let this opportunity slip away.
As the game reached its final moments, North Carolina began to feel the pressure. Despite a valiant effort from Bacot, who finished with 18 points and 12 rebounds, the Tar Heels couldn’t regain their footing. Duke’s defense stifled UNC’s offense, and the Blue Devils made key free throws down the stretch to seal the win. The final buzzer sounded with Duke holding a 79-74 lead, and the Blue Devils had captured their 22nd ACC Championship, their first under Jon Scheyer.
What This Victory Means for Duke Basketball
Duke’s comeback victory over North Carolina for the ACC Championship was a statement win for the Blue Devils. It was a testament to Jon Scheyer’s coaching, the growth of the team, and the leadership of two of the program’s rising stars, Maliq Brown and Caleb Foster. This victory has several important implications for both the present and future of Duke basketball.
First, it solidifies Duke’s status as one of the top programs in college basketball under Scheyer’s leadership. With the Blue Devils returning to the ACC throne, Scheyer’s success in his second year as head coach has been undeniable. The team’s ability to win a title in such a competitive conference bodes well for their prospects in the NCAA Tournament.
Second, the performances of Brown and Foster indicate that Duke has a bright future ahead. Both players have proven that they are capable of stepping up in high-pressure situations and leading their team to victory. Their growth and development over the course of the season have been impressive, and as freshmen, they have shown that they have the potential to be future stars in the NCAA and beyond.
Finally, this victory reinforces Duke’s identity as a program built on resilience, toughness, and team-first mentality. The Blue Devils showed that they are capable of overcoming adversity, responding to a challenging situation, and executing when it matters most. With a strong foundation in place, Duke is poised to make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament, and the 2025 ACC Championship will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the defining moments of their season.