The rivalry between Kentucky and Duke in college basketball is one of the most intense in the sport, even if the teams don't play all that regularly. Neither fanbase likes each other, and there's even a fun website for Kentucky fans to go visit: did duke win.
Each matchup feels like a battle for bragging rights between two of the most storied programs in the game. Woods and Laettner, Zion announcing his presence, Padgett's three, the list goes on and the tradition runs deep on both sides.
Kentucky and Duke have combined for 13 national titles and boast some of the most passionate fan bases in all of sports.
Over the years, the Wildcats and Blue Devils have faced each other only 23 times, with Duke leading the all-time series 12-11.
However, Kentucky holds more national championships (8 to Duke’s 5) and more success in NCAA tournament history, leading in overall tournament appearances, Final Four appearances, and wins.
Big Blue Nation is riled up and ready to go for the early season marquee matchup. It will be a first test for the newly built Kentucky team headed by new coach Mark Pope.
This season’s showdown in the Champions Classic will add a new chapter to this storied rivalry one way or the other.
Kentucky is relying on veteran transfers like Koby Brea, while Duke is powered by a No. 1-ranked freshman class that includes future stars like Cooper Flagg. The game will be an early test of youth versus experience, and both fan bases are hyped to see who will come out on top and how each team will perform.
Now it's your time Kentucky fans, who do you think will win this year’s matchup? Will Kentucky’s experience give them the edge, or will Duke’s young stars be too much to handle?
Cast your vote now and let Big Blue Nation’s voice be heard!
Prediction Time: Who wins the Kentucky-Duke matchup?
— Drew Holbrook (@DrewWBN) November 12, 2024