On April 4, 2015, the Duke Blue Devils squared off against the Michigan State Spartans in the NCAA Final Four at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, delivering a performance that solidified their place in college basketball history. Duke, led by legendary head coach Mike Krzyzewski, dominated the Spartans with a decisive 81-61 victory, securing a spot in the national championship game.
A Statement Victory
From the opening tip-off, Michigan State, coached by Tom Izzo, looked to challenge the Blue Devils with aggressive play and early scoring bursts. The Spartans jumped to a quick 14-6 lead, fueled by Denzel Valentine’s sharp shooting and Travis Trice’s leadership. However, Duke responded with a stunning 30-11 run to close out the first half, entering the locker room with a commanding 36-25 lead.
The second half saw the Blue Devils tighten their grip on the game. Duke’s dominant frontcourt, led by freshman sensation Jahlil Okafor, controlled the paint, while fellow freshman Justise Winslow showcased his two-way versatility. Tyus Jones, the team’s floor general, orchestrated the offense masterfully, keeping Michigan State’s defense off balance.
The Key Performers
Jahlil Okafor: The star big man finished with 18 points and 6 rebounds, displaying his smooth post moves and efficiency around the rim.
Justise Winslow: A force on both ends, Winslow contributed 19 points and 9 rebounds, providing the energy and athleticism that gave Duke the edge.
Tyus Jones: The eventual Most Outstanding Player of the Final Four, Jones chipped in with 9 points and 4 assists, controlling the tempo and facilitating the offense effectively.
Denzel Valentine: Despite Michigan State’s struggles, Valentine fought hard, leading his team with 22 points and 11 rebounds.
Duke’s Path to Glory
Duke’s triumph over Michigan State propelled them into the national championship game, where they would face the Wisconsin Badgers. Two nights later, on April 6, 2015, the Blue Devils captured their fifth NCAA title under Coach K with a thrilling 68-63 victory over Wisconsin, cementing the legacy of their talented freshman trio—Okafor, Winslow, and Jones.
A Lasting Impact
The 2015 Duke squad remains one of the most iconic teams in the program’s storied history. The team’s ability to seamlessly blend youthful talent with experienced leadership demonstrated the brilliance of Krzyzewski’s coaching philosophy. Additionally, their dominant performance against Michigan State in the Final Four served as a testament to their championship pedigree.
For Duke fans, the 2015 Final Four victory over Michigan State is a cherished memory—one that showcased a masterful display of teamwork, resilience, and championship ambition. It was a game that highlighted the future of the NBA in players like Okafor, Winslow, and Jones while reinforcing Duke’s reputation as a powerhouse in college basketball.
