Boozer’s Double-Double Lifts No. 6 Duke Past Georgia Tech in ACC Opener.

DURHAM, N.C. — Freshman Cameron Boozer delivered an impressive performance with 26 points and 12 rebounds as sixth-ranked Duke defeated Georgia Tech 85–79 on Wednesday in the Atlantic Coast Conference opener for both teams. The Blue Devils (12–1) faced strong resistance from the Yellow Jackets (9–5), who led 43–39 at halftime and extended their advantage to seven early in the second half. Georgia Tech remained competitive throughout, forcing Duke to execute in key moments down the stretch to secure the win.

Isaiah Evans contributed 17 points for Duke, which struggled offensively at times. The Blue Devils shot just 40.6 percent from the field and went 9-for-32 from three-point range, while also missing 11 free throws. Despite those issues, Duke closed the game by converting its final five free throws. Georgia Tech cut the deficit to 81–78 with 39.1 seconds remaining when Kowacie Reeves Jr. hit a three-pointer. Boozer responded moments later by sinking two free throws to restore a two-possession lead. Evans added two more free throws with 7.9 seconds left to seal the victory.

Reeves led Georgia Tech with 23 points and five three-pointers. The Yellow Jackets shot efficiently, making 67.9 percent of their shots in the first half and finishing the game at 53.7 percent overall, including 10-of-18 from beyond the arc. The win marked Duke’s first game since an 82–81 loss to Texas Tech on Dec. 20 at Madison Square Garden, a contest in which the Blue Devils surrendered a 17-point second-half lead. Georgia Tech, meanwhile, continued its struggles in the series, losing for the 20th time in the last 22 meetings with Duke and remaining winless at Cameron Indoor Stadium since 2004.

Georgia Tech will host Boston College on Saturday, while Duke travels to face Florida State.