THE PROFESSOR’S CBB SITUATIONAL THROW-DOWN!
(NCAAB) Duke vs. Pittsburgh, 01/19/2021 9:00 PM, Score: 73 - 79
Point Spread: -2.50 | -104.00 Duke (Away)
Result: Loss
Duke has struggled with COVID-19 issues this season. The Blue Devils had their three-game conference losing streak snapped by in a 74-67 loss at No. 20 Virginia Tech last. The offense is led by Matthew Hurt with 19.6 points and 8.5 rebounds a game. DJ Steward adds 14.0 points and is grabbing 4.8 rebounds. Jeremy Roach chips in 11.1 points and 3.3 assists. Five-star freshman Jalen Johnson returned from an injury last Tuesday, but only played four minutes but should play more in this game.

Pittsburgh has struggled to shoot the ball this season but is facing a Duke team that is surprisingly not very good. The offense is led by Justin Champagnie with a double-double of 18.7 points and 12.9 rebounds. He was out for a month but returned in Saturday’s win. Au’Diese Toney adds 15.9 points and is grabbing 6.1 rebounds while Xavier Johnson chips in 15.1 points and 5.6 assists.

The return of Jalen Johnson adds a huge scoring, passing, and rebounding threat to Duke’s lineup. He should be healthy after having the last week off and should get more playing time this game. Pittsburgh does not have the firepower to beat Duke. Duke has been able to beat lesser opponents and will be motivated after dropping out of the polls.

Play on Duke.