News-Record.com

Press room is packed tonight? Why, because Virginia has a horde of reporters that cover the Cavaliers. I'm guessing it has something to do with the geography of Virginia - a lot of towns with papers close enough to cover one of two major programs within the state. Certainly it can't be due to the wild popularity of Virginia basketball...

... I know the chants for the head of Pete Gillen are growing stronger and that the Wahoos have lost three of four heading into this one, but I think there are some matchups that could make this game interesting. Specifically, Virginia's Devin Smith, who missed two of the Cavs' losses with an ankle injury. Smith's a bruising forward with the skills to play on the outside. In other words, a matchup nightmare. Looking down Duke's roster, it's hard to figure who will guard him. I'm curious to see what sort of plan K cooks up.

Elton Brown could - conceivably - cause problems for Shelden Williams down low, but to do that he'll need to use his bulk more aggressively than he has in past games against Duke.

I would expect Duke to attack UVA freshman point guard Sean Singletary immediately, with lots of pressure defense. Singletary's been miserable lately, making just 7 of his last 33 shots. Expect the Blue Devils to make every effort to shatter his fragile confidence.

As for a prediction, you'd certainly have to go with Duke. But as it has been with everyone the Blue Devils have played recently, it's going to be close...

Oh, and here's one other thing. Shavlik Randolph's in uniform tonight. He probably won't play much, but expect his appearance on the floor to be greeted with wild cheers from the Cameron faithful. The emotional lift may be worth a few points.