Dec 20, 2025; New York, New York, USA; Duke Blue Devils head coach Jon Scheyer coaches against the Texas Tech Red Raiders during the first half at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images Brad Penner-Imagn Images

Duke’s Scheyer Reveals Biggest Concern Against UNC

Originally posted on Duke Blue Devils on SI
By Hugh Straine | Last updated Feb 7, 2026 1:00 PM ET

Duke versus North Carolina isn't just the best rivalry in all of college basketball, but one of the best rivalries in sports altogether. The first edition of this season's bouts will take place on Saturday in Chapel Hill at 6:30 pm ET.

The Blue Devils currently sit at 21-1 overall and 10-0 in ACC play while ranking No. 4 in the Associated Press Top 25. North Carolina holds an 18-4 overall record and a 6-3 record in league play while coming in at No. 14 in this week's AP Poll.

Duke is riding a 10-game win streak while winning seven of its last eight games by double digits. However, the Tar Heels have been hot themselves, entering Saturday's showdown on a four-game win streak while averaging 88.5 points scored per game over that stretch.

This rivalry matchup is always an instant classic with one of the best environments in college athletics. However, this year feels a bit different in terms of how the two squads match up on paper.

Jon Scheyer Details Biggest Challenge for Duke Against North Carolina

Duke overwhelms teams in the paint due to its elite positional length and versatility. The Blue Devils do their work inside offensively and dominate the paint with the ridiculous size advantage they boast at practically every position on the floor.

However, North Carolina is one of the few teams that can match that length. Duke is the second-tallest team in college hoops, and UNC is the third-tallest, according to KenPom. With one of the most productive frontcourt duos in the nation, with 7'0" Henri Veesaar and 6'10" Caleb Wilson, the Heels could pose issues for Duke down low.

Blue Devils' head coach Jon Scheyer understands the challenge it will be for Duke inside against the Tar Heels.

"They put a lot of pressure on the paint," Scheyer told The Devils Den's John Watson. "They post up. They transition, offensive boards. They get to the free throw line. They're a better shooting team, no question, than last year."

North Carolina Has Defended the Paint Well

UNC ranks just 56th nationally in adjusted defensive efficiency and 187th in opponent three-point shooting percentage (34.1), according to KenPom. However, the Heels rank fifth nationally in opponent two-point shooting percentage (44.0) and 22nd in opponent effective field goal percentage (46.7).

Duke thrives in the paint and wants to work the ball inside out. Over the Blue Devils' last five games, they have outscored their opponents 218-88 in the paint, a +130 advantage.

If North Carolina makes it difficult for Duke to get inside at will, that could pose major problems for the Blue Devils on the road.

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