# Duke, We Have a Problem: Duke Blue Devils Collapse
The Duke Blue Devils are one of the most storied programs in college basketball history, synonymous with excellence, discipline, and winning. However, even the best programs experience setbacks, and Duke has had its fair share of shocking collapses. Whether it’s a mid-season slump, a postseason meltdown, or a game that slipped away in the final moments, Duke’s recent struggles have raised questions about the team’s consistency, coaching, and ability to handle pressure.
## The Collapse: What Went Wrong?
Duke entered the season with high expectations, as they often do. Loaded with five-star recruits, experienced veterans, and a coaching staff that knows how to win, the Blue Devils looked poised to dominate the ACC and make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament. However, things didn’t go as planned.
One of the biggest issues has been their inability to close out games. Several times this season, Duke has held commanding leads only to see them evaporate in the final minutes. Whether it’s poor shot selection, defensive lapses, or a lack of composure under pressure, the Blue Devils have struggled when it matters most.
Another factor in Duke’s collapse has been their inconsistent defense. Traditionally, Duke teams are known for their aggressive man-to-man defense and relentless intensity. This year, however, the Blue Devils have struggled to contain opposing offenses, giving up easy baskets and failing to get key stops down the stretch.
Additionally, leadership has been a question mark. In past seasons, Duke has had clear leaders like Zion Williamson, Christian Laettner, or JJ Redick—players who could take over a game and rally their teammates. This season, however, the team has lacked that go-to player in crucial moments, leading to confusion and disorganization in crunch time.
## The Coaching Factor
Ever since Mike Krzyzewski (Coach K) retired, the program has been in a transitional phase under Jon Scheyer. While Scheyer has done a solid job recruiting top talent, the pressure to follow in the footsteps of a legendary coach is immense. Some critics have pointed to inexperience as a factor in Duke’s struggles, questioning whether Scheyer’s late-game strategies and rotations are as effective as they need to be.
Adjusting to a new coaching philosophy can take time, but in the world of Duke basketball, patience is rare. Fans expect championships, and anything less feels like a failure.
## Looking Ahead
Despite their recent collapse, Duke still has time to turn things around. The talent is there, and if the Blue Devils can make key adjustments—tightening their defense, improving late-game execution, and finding a true leader on the court—they can still be a dangerous team in March.
The question is whether they can make those adjustments in time. If not, this season could go down as one of the biggest disappointments in Duke history. For a program that prides itself on excellence, anything short of a deep NCAA Tournament run will be seen as a failure.
Duke, we have a problem—but it’s not too late to fix it.
