Nelson, Robertson Propel Duke to Victory Over Green Bay

DURHAM, N.C. – The fourth-ranked Duke women’s basketball team opened its 2026-27 season with a convincing 76-60 victory over Green Bay at Cameron Indoor Stadium, overcoming a slow start with a dominant second-half performance.

Senior Riley Nelson and junior Arianna Roberson led the Blue Devils with 15 points apiece. Roberson delivered an impressive all-around performance, shooting 6-of-10 from the field while adding five rebounds and four blocks.

Duke showcased its offensive depth, with eight players contributing points. Aaliyah Crump finished with 11 points and a career-high six assists, while Delaney Thomas added 10 points and a team-high seven rebounds.

Despite entering the matchup as the nation’s No. 4 team, Duke faced an early challenge from Green Bay. The Phoenix used an 11-2 first-quarter run to take a 14-10 lead and held an 18-16 advantage after the opening period.

Green Bay extended its lead to six points early in the second quarter before Duke responded. A three-pointer from Nelson gave the Blue Devils a 28-25 advantage, and Crump connected from beyond the arc to send Duke into halftime leading 33-31.

The Blue Devils took control after the break, opening the third quarter with a 12-5 run. Freshman Autumn Fleary provided a spark, scoring eight points in the period as Duke extended its lead to 60-49 entering the fourth.

Duke’s defense proved decisive, holding Green Bay to just 18 percent shooting in the third quarter and 25 percent in the fourth. The Blue Devils also dominated the rebounding battle, 44-31, while collecting 19 second-chance points.

After committing 12 first-half turnovers, Duke tightened its ball security with just five after halftime.

The Blue Devils will look to build on their season-opening victory when they travel to face North Texas on November 8 at 2 p.m. ET.