Nov 26, 2021; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Duke Blue Devils head coach Mike Krzyzewski talks to the media after the Blue Devils defeated the Gonzaga Bulldogs 84-81 at T-Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports
Duke defeated Gonzaga 84-81 on Friday night, but it did not have the services of its best player for a large portion of the second half.
Paolo Banchero was ineffective after halftime due to cramping. He scored 20 points on 8-of-13 shooting and had completely taken over the game prior to the break.
Banchero also dealt with cramping issues during Duke’s season-opening win vs. Kentucky several weeks ago.
On Friday after the game, coach Michael Krzyzewski confirmed that Banchero received an IV treatment during the second half.
Banchero told reporters that both his quads “locked up” in the second half.
Duke was still able to overcome Banchero’s absence thanks to tremendous contributions f
rom players like Mark Williams and Wendell Moore Jr. Moore poured in 20 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists while Williams put up 17 points, 9 rebounds and 5 blocks.
Duke is expected to move up to No. 1 when the next AP rankings come out on Monday. The Blue Devils face Ohio State on Tuesday, so Banchero has just a few days to recover and hydrate before Duke’s next marquee matchup. Tipoff vs. the Buckeyes is at 9:30 p.m. ET.
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