**ACC MEN’S BASKETBALL POWER RANKINGS: DUKE’S REIGN ENDS, COOPER FLAGG’S ERA BEGINS?**
The Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) men’s basketball landscape has taken a dramatic turn following Clemson’s stunning upset victory over previously top-ranked Duke. The Blue Devils, who had been riding a high after a dominant win over North Carolina just days prior, were left reeling as Clemson’s stifling defense held them to a season-low 56 points.
Cooper Flagg, the talented freshman forward from Duke, continues to dazzle on the court, and it’s hard to imagine him not being at the forefront of the Blue Devil’s future. His impressive all-around game has drawn comparisons to some of the greatest players in Duke history, including the legendary Grant Hill and J.J. Redick.
However, as we’ve seen time and time again in college basketball, even the most dominant teams can be brought back down to earth with a hard-fought loss. And it’s not just Duke that’s feeling the effects of this loss – the entire ACC power structure has been shaken up.
With Duke dropping to third in our power rankings, thedoor swings open for other ACC powerhouses to make a move. North Carolina, who had been riding a hot streak prior to their loss to Duke, moves up to second in our rankings. The Tar Heels have a strong case for being considered the top team in the ACC, with their experienced lineup and explosive offense capable of beating anyone in the conference.
But it’s not just about Duke and UNC – the Clemson Tigers have made a statement with their upset victory. Led by a stifling defense and clutch shooting from guards AJ Higginbotham and Hunter Harris, Clemson is now right back in the hunt for a NCAA Tournament bid.
As we head into the second half of the ACC season, the stakes are higher than ever. With conference tournament spots on the line and NCAA Tournament berths within reach, every game will matter. Will Duke be able to rebound from their shocking loss and reclaim their rightful place atop the ACC? Or will another team step up and seize the reins?
Here are our current ACC men’s basketball power rankings:
1. Clemson (14-5, 6-3 ACC) – The Tigers prove themselves to be a force to be reckoned with in the ACC.
2. North Carolina (14-4, 6-2 ACC) – The Tar Heels’ hot streak continues, with a strong case for being considered the top team in the conference.
3. Duke (13-5, 5-3 ACC) – Despite their shocking loss to Clemson, the Blue Devils remain a strong contender for the ACC title.
4. Virginia Tech (14-5, 5-2 ACC) – The Hokies continue to ride a hot streak, with their strong defense and balanced offense.
5. Wake Forest (11-6, 4-3 ACC) – The Demon Deacons are making a push for a NCAA Tournament bid, led by a strong frontcourt performance.
The ACC is a deep and talented conference, with multiple teams capable of beating anyone on a given night. As we head into the second half of the season, it’s anyone’s guess who will emerge as the eventual champion. But one thing is for sure – it’s going to be a wild and unpredictable ride.
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