Aarnisalo, Harris help No. 21 UNC beat No. 12 Duke 74-69 in rivalry rematch - AP News
AP News
March 1, 2026
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**Aarnisalo and Harris Steer No. 21 UNC to Victory Over No. 12 Duke in Rivalry Rematch**
In a thrilling showdown between two powerhouse programs, No. 21 University of North Carolina (UNC) defeated No. 12 Duke, with Amanar Aarnisalo and Armando Bacot Harris playing pivotal roles in the 74-69 victory. This win marked UNC's second consecutive triumph over Duke, showcasing their resilience against a formidable opponent.
The game, held at the newly renovated Cameron Indoor Stadium, was a high-stakes affair loaded with intense performances. Aarnisalo emerged as the leading scorer for UNC with 20 points, while Harris contributed significantly with 18 points and 10 rebounds, solidifying his presence on both ends of the court. Their efforts were complemented by strong defensive plays from teammates like Jaylen McClinton, who delivered a crucial three-pointer down the stretch.
The contest was tightly contested throughout, with neither team able to pull ahead by more than eight points. Duke's Jordan Miller led his team with 18 points and nine rebounds, but it wasn't enough to secure the win. UNC's balanced offense and tenacious defense under first-year head coach Hubert Davis proved decisive, especially in the closing minutes when they outscored Duke 12-5.
This victory holds significant implications for both programs. For UNC, it boosts their confidence heading into conference play and reaffirms their potential to compete with higher-ranked teams despite a lower seed. Meanwhile, Duke's loss, following an earlier setback against Kansas State, raises questions about their consistency this season. The game underscores the unpredictable nature of college basketball and highlights the importance of teamwork and execution in high-stakes matchups.
The rivalry between UNC and Duke is one of the most storied in sports, with fans eagerly anticipating future encounters. This latest chapter will undoubtedly be remembered as a testament to the skill and determination of both teams, leaving their loyal fanbases with mixed emotions but undeniably captivated by the spectacle
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Originally published on AP News on 3/1/2026