No. 2 Duke on Saturday night by dismantling the Atlantic Coast Conference’s other traditional power in North Carolina, 85-65.

Viktor Lakhin scored 22 points, including a season-best four 3-pointers, and No. 23 Clemson rolled past North Carolina 85-65 on Monday night. Chase Hunter added 19 points with four 3s for the Tigers (20-5,

Duke’s dominant 87-70 win against North Carolina further cemented the Blue Devils’ status as one of the nation’s premier championship contenders. The Blue Zone discusses how much the victory really means for Duke’s chances of winning it all come March.

Viktor Lakhin scored 20 of his 22 points in the first half and No. 23 Clemson kept riding waves of momentum in drubbing visiting North Carolina 85-65 on Monday night.

No. 2 Duke on Saturday night by dismantling the Atlantic Coast Conference’s other traditional power in North Carolina, 85-65. “Very proud of this team,” said Viktor Lakhin, the Cincinnati transfer who had 22 points with a season-high four 3-pointers and helped Clemson take control in the opening half by building a 49-33 lead.

After two close calls against in-state foes, Duke left no doubt in an 87-70 thrashing of North Carolina in Cameron Indoor Stadium. Three Blue Devils — Cooper Flagg, Kon Knueppel and Tyrese Proctor — scored more than 15 points in a balanced scoring effort.