The Atlantic Coast Conference has finalized its slate for the 2026‑27 basketball season, confirming that the Duke Blue Devils will lock horns with North Carolina as their primary conference partner while Virginia will serve as a rotating opponent. The schedule also notes that Duke will not meet Virginia Tech during the upcoming campaign.
For Duke, the prospect of a three‑peat ACC championship adds extra pressure, but the schedule also underscores the conference’s competitive depth, with matchups against traditional powerhouses shaping early expectations.
McNamara’s Return to Syracuse
Gerry McNamara, who previously guided Siena to a near‑upset of Duke in the NCAA Tournament, has taken the reins of the Syracuse Orange, bringing a fresh philosophy and a roster bolstered by former Siena guard Gavin Doty and Kiyan Anthony, the son of NBA legend Carmelo Anthony.
Doty arrives in New York after a standout season in which he averaged 18.0 points, 6.9 rebounds, 2.2 assists and 1.3 steals per game, while Anthony’s return adds a dynamic perimeter threat that could revitalize the Orange’s offense.
A New Challenge for the JMA Dome
The JMA Wireless Dome, long a formidable venue for visiting teams, now faces the added intrigue of McNamara’s revamped squad, which also welcomes Temple transfer Aiden Tobiason, a 6‑5 guard looking to make an immediate impact.
Meanwhile, Syracuse announced the departure of longtime head coach Red Autry after the 2025‑26 season, clearing the path for McNamara’s aggressive recruiting and development strategy.
The upcoming season will test whether McNamara can translate his past successes into sustained ACC dominance, and how Duke’s primary partnership with North Carolina will influence the conference race.