While Cooper Flagg and the Duke men’s basketball team are likely the most hyped team in the country right now, the Duke women’s team is one that should not be overlooked. As a 2 seed in the tournament, and arguably the hottest team in women’s basketball right now, I believe they will be the winner of the NCAA tournament this year. Entering the tournament, four of the last five games Duke won were against ranked teams, and all five were teams that they had lost to earlier in the season. One of these games was the rivalry game against UNC, which I was lucky enough to attend. What I witnessed first-hand was a team that was selfless, electric, and most importantly, having fun, even in such an intense and emotional game. I saw a basketball team that was playing for each other and bringing the best in those around them, which will go a long way in the tournament. Being able to trust and be supported by teammates is one of the most important factors in the teams that thrive in the tournament as opposed to those who fall apart under the pressure. In the last game before the NCAA tournament, Duke won the ACC tournament as underdogs against NC State – one of the best teams in the country. In a post game interview, when asked the potential of this team, Duke player Oluchi Okananwa responded with “Limitless. I’m not even going to put a cap on what we can do,” which displays the confidence Duke has in themselves. This team believes they have what it takes to win it all this year, and after watching the passion they play with, so do I.

Image Source: https://goduke.com/news/2023/2/25/super-seniors-duke-womens-basketball-to-honor-eight-member-senior-class