Lively, Duke put together huge win over rival UNC

DURHAM, NC — Dereck Lively II recorded 14 rebounds and a career-high eight blocks leading the Duke Blue Devils to a 63-57 win over long-time rival North Carolina on Saturday night in Cameron Indoor Stadium.

Lively played a significant role for the Blue Devils defensively, limiting Armando Bacot to just two points and three rebounds in the first half. The Philadelphia native recorded the third most blocked shots by a Duke freshman in any game and the most in nearly 50 years.

Jeremy Roach also put in 20 points and seven rebounds while playing all 40 minutes to guide Duke to victory.

“I’m just trying to make sure people respect me instead of doubt me.”

After recording career-highs of eight blocks and 14 rebounds against rival UNC, I spoke with #Duke big man Dereck Lively II about the growth he’s seen in himself over the past few months. pic.twitter.com/bFJGjcPUkF

— Jordan (@JDavis34_) February 5, 2023

“I’m just trying to make sure people respect me instead of doubt me,” Lively told me following the win. “I got heart. I ain’t gonna quit. I’m gonna do anything I can to get the W. I haven’t felt a win like this in this atmosphere ever, it feels electric.”

Duke (17-6, 8-4 ACC) collects their third straight victory and defeats North Carolina for the first time since their win over them on the road last year. The Blue Devils’ defense put on yet another dominating performance as they held North Carolina to a season-low 57 points. UNC becomes the ninth team this season to score a then-season low in points against Duke.

“Dereck’s really blossomed and we’ve loved to see him continue to develop,” Duke head coach Jon Scheyer said after the game. “We’ve seen just how much he impacts winning. I’ve known since we recruited him in high school that he’s had it in him.”

Stay tuned for more updates to this story.