The Duke Blue Devils will face the Florida Gators in the ACC/SEC Challenge on Dec. 1, marking the second consecutive year the two teams have met in this cross‑conference showcase. The game will be played at the Stephen C. O’Connell Center, commonly known as the Swamp, in Gainesville, Florida.
A rematch with history
A year ago the Blue Devils edged Florida in a tightly contested battle at Cameron Indoor Stadium, securing a 78‑73 victory that kept their edge in the series. Duke now leads the all‑time matchup 15‑4 and has won three straight meetings, underscoring the growing rivalry between the programs.
A demanding non‑conference schedule
The upcoming clash is just one piece of a rugged non‑conference slate that Duke has assembled for the 2025‑26 season. In addition to Florida, the Blue Devils are slated to meet Michigan State, Illinois, Connecticut, Michigan, and Gonzaga, each of which was a 3‑seed or higher in the 2026 NCAA Tournament projections. The schedule is designed to test the team early and sharpen its résumé for March.
Key storylines
Coach Mike Elko’s second year at the helm brings a renewed emphasis on defensive intensity, while senior guard Isaiah Evans is expected to play a pivotal role in the backcourt. His performance will be closely watched as the team looks to translate its early‑season momentum into sustained success.
Fans traveling to Gainesville will experience a vibrant atmosphere, but the Blue Devils remain focused on executing their game plan. The matchup also serves as a litmus test for Duke’s depth and resilience as they navigate a schedule that could shape their seeding heading into the NCAA Tournament.