2022 Duke vs Arkansas Basketball Game: Scouting Report and Predictions

Duke basketball is set to make its first-ever trip to Arkansas as part of the highly-anticipated ACC/SEC Challenge. 

The Blue Devils (5-1) will go head-to-head with the Razorbacks (4-3) on Wednesday at 9:15 p.m. (ESPN), igniting the basketball fever inside Bud Walton Arena. Despite Duke and Arkansas splitting four previous games, the Blue Devils emerged victorious in their most recent meeting, clinching a win over Arkansas in the 2022 NCAA Tournament’s Elite Eight stage. 
Following an impressive winning streak of 20 out of 24 games in the ACC/Big Ten Challenge, the Blue Devils are gearing up for another thrilling showdown. Here’s a sneak peek into what to expect and a score prediction for Duke’s match against the Hogs.

Duke basketball thrives on Jeremy Roach’s leadership

With a team predominantly composed of freshmen and sophomores, senior guard Jeremy Roach’s unwavering leadership is critical for Duke, particularly in a vociferous, away game setting. Roach’s performance in the Blue Devils’ 78-69 victory against Arkansas in the 2022 NCAA Tournament included nine points and five turnovers. Now, with an opportunity to bounce back after scoring an impressive 18 points against Southern Indiana, Roach stands poised to light up the court once again.

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Will Arkansas guard Tramon Mark play vs. Duke after an injury? 

Arkansas guard Tramon Mark’s outstanding 34 points in the Battle 4 Atlantis loss to UNC brought home a terrifying fall that could mean sitting the game out against Duke. Mark was rushed to a local hospital in the Bahamas for evaluation, and subsequent MRI results revealed no significant damage to his back. If the Houston transfer sits out against the Blue Devils, Arkansas will face an uphill battle.

Duke basketball’s road record 

In Jon Scheyer’s maiden season as head coach, Duke clinched 27 victories, including a perfect home record at Cameron Indoor Stadium and an ACC Tournament championship. However, the Blue Devils’ road performance tells a different story, ending last season with a losing record (4-6). Duke’s upcoming match against Arkansas will mark their first road game against an SEC school since their victory against LSU, led by Shaquille O’Neal, back in 1992. Brace yourself for a thrilling experience.

Duke vs. Arkansas match prediction 

Duke 78, Arkansas 73: Despite a challenging season opener, Duke is set to bring its A-game to Bud Walton Arena. Rod Baxley, our in-house sportswriter, can be reached at [email protected] or @RoddBaxley on Twitter for more updates.