Duke & Wake Forest Basketball: A 105-Year-Old Rivalry

Introduction

The rivalry between Duke University and Wake Forest University in men's basketball is one of the oldest and most storied in college basketball. The two schools are located just 25 miles apart in North Carolina, and their fans are known for their passion and intensity.

The first game between Duke and Wake Forest was played in 1916, and the Blue Devils have held a slight edge in the series, with a record of 65-57-1. The two teams have met in the NCAA Tournament eight times, with Duke winning five of those matchups.

The Early Years

The rivalry between Duke and Wake Forest began in the early 1900s, when both schools were members of the Southern Conference. The two teams first met on the basketball court in 1916, and Duke won the game, 24-21.

In the early years of the rivalry, Wake Forest was often the more dominant team. The Demon Deacons won the first four meetings between the two schools, and they held a 10-6 record against Duke in the 1920s.

However, Duke began to assert its dominance in the 1930s. The Blue Devils won seven straight games against Wake Forest from 1931 to 1937, and they finished the decade with a 15-10 record against their rivals.

The Golden Age

The rivalry between Duke and Wake Forest reached its peak in the 1950s and 1960s. During this time, both schools were national powers, and their games were often played in front of sellout crowds.

In the 1950s, Duke was led by All-American Dick Groat, who later went on to a successful career in Major League Baseball. The Blue Devils won the national championship in 1954, and they finished the decade with a 19-5 record against Wake Forest.

In the 1960s, Wake Forest was led by All-American Len Chappell, who was one of the best players in the country. The Demon Deacons won the ACC championship in 1962, and they finished the decade with a 15-9 record against Duke.

The Modern Era

The rivalry between Duke and Wake Forest has continued to be competitive in recent years. The two schools have met in the NCAA Tournament eight times since 2000, and Duke has won five of those matchups.

In the 2010s, Duke was led by All-American Zion Williamson, who was one of the most hyped recruits in college basketball history. The Blue Devils won the national championship in 2019, and they finished the decade with a 17-7 record against Wake Forest.

The Future

The rivalry between Duke and Wake Forest is sure to continue to be competitive for many years to come. Both schools are located in the ACC, and they are always among the top contenders for the national championship.

The next chapter in the rivalry will be written on February 28, 2023, when Duke and Wake Forest meet at Cameron Indoor Stadium. The game is sure to be a sellout, and it will be one of the most anticipated games of the college basketball season.

Key Stats

• Duke and Wake Forest have played 123 times overall.
• Duke has a 65-57-1 record against Wake Forest.
• The two teams have met in the NCAA Tournament eight times.
• Duke has won five of the eight NCAA Tournament meetings.
• Duke has won the national championship five times.
• Wake Forest has won the national championship twice.

Pain Points

• The rivalry between Duke and Wake Forest can be very intense, and it can sometimes lead to bad blood between the two schools.
• The fans of Duke and Wake Forest are known for their passion, and they can sometimes be hostile towards each other.
• The rivalry can sometimes make it difficult for the two schools to cooperate on other matters.

Motivations

• The rivalry between Duke and Wake Forest is motivated by a number of factors, including:
  • Geography: The two schools are located just 25 miles apart.
  • History: The two schools have a long and storied history of competition.
  • Tradition: The rivalry is a source of pride for both schools.
  • Competition: The two schools are always competing for the ACC championship and the national championship.

Tips and Tricks

• If you are going to a Duke-Wake Forest game, be sure to arrive early to get a good seat.
• Wear your school colors and be prepared to cheer loudly.
• Be respectful of the opposing fans.
• Don't be afraid to talk to the other fans about the game.
• Have fun!

How to Step-by-Step Approach

1. Purchase tickets to the game.
2. Arrive early to get a good seat.
3. Wear your school colors and be prepared to cheer loudly.
4. Be respectful of the opposing fans.
5. Don't be afraid to talk to the other fans about the game.
6. Have fun!

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