Duke Blue Devils Clash with Lehigh Mountain Hawks in NCAA Tournament First Round

The electrifying atmosphere of the 2025 NCAA Women’s Tournament is upon us, promising weeks of thrilling basketball and unforgettable moments. Among the highly anticipated first-round matchups is a contest between the formidable Duke Blue Devils and the tenacious Lehigh Mountain Hawks. This game, scheduled for Friday night, pits a perennial powerhouse against a hungry mid-major champion eager to make a statement on the national stage.

The Duke Blue Devils enter the tournament as a No. 2 seed, a testament to their stellar 2024-25 season. They concluded their campaign with an impressive 26-7 record, punctuated by a hard-fought victory in the ACC Tournament. Winning the ACC title not only boosted their confidence but also solidified their position as one of the top teams in the nation. The Blue Devils are known for their balanced attack, featuring a potent offense and a stifling defense. Their success is rooted in a deep roster filled with talented players who can contribute in multiple ways. Duke’s coaching staff has instilled a winning culture, emphasizing teamwork, discipline, and relentless effort.

Their opponent, the Lehigh Mountain Hawks, arrive with a commendable 27-6 record. They secured their spot in the tournament by winning the Patriot League championship, showcasing their dominance within their conference. Lehigh is a team built on grit and determination. They play with a chip on their shoulder, knowing they have to prove themselves against higher-ranked opponents. While they may not have the same level of national recognition as Duke, the Mountain Hawks are a well-coached team with a clear identity. They rely on a cohesive unit that plays together, maximizing their strengths and minimizing their weaknesses.

According to Barttorvik, a respected source for college basketball analytics, Duke is ranked 7th in the country in efficiency. This statistic highlights their effectiveness on both ends of the court. They are able to score efficiently while also preventing their opponents from doing the same. In contrast, Lehigh is ranked 109th in efficiency. While this ranking suggests a significant gap between the two teams, it doesn’t tell the whole story. Lehigh’s efficiency rating is reflective of the competition they face in the Patriot League, which is not as strong as the ACC. They have the potential to outperform their ranking if they play to their full capabilities.

Experts are closely analyzing this Round of 64 clash, offering their insights and predictions. The consensus seems to be that Duke is the favorite, given their superior talent and experience. However, Lehigh is not being dismissed as a pushover. Their championship pedigree and strong work ethic make them a dangerous opponent.

For a comprehensive breakdown of the entire tournament bracket, be sure to check out USA TODAY’s March Madness coverage. Their in-depth analysis provides valuable information about each team and their potential path to the Final Four. Additionally, don’t miss their tournament upset picks and spotlight on players who could emerge as breakout stars. Upsets are a common occurrence in March Madness, and identifying potential Cinderella stories can add excitement to the tournament experience.

Holland, writing in The Observer, emphasizes Duke’s momentum heading into the tournament. "The Blue Devils are riding high after winning the ACC tournament championship. Expect that momentum to carry into the NCAA Tournament opener in front of the Cameron Crazies," Holland writes. Playing at home in front of their passionate fans will undoubtedly provide a significant advantage for Duke. The Cameron Indoor Stadium is known for its intense atmosphere, which can be intimidating for visiting teams.

However, Holland also cautions against underestimating Lehigh. "But Lehigh’s no cupcake," Holland writes. "The Patriot League champs are led by fifth-year senior Maddie Albrecht and her 15.7 points and 5.4 rebounds per game." Albrecht is the heart and soul of the Mountain Hawks, and her performance will be crucial to their chances of pulling off an upset. Her experience and leadership will be essential in guiding her team through the pressure of the NCAA Tournament.

Fans can watch the Duke vs. Lehigh game on Fubo, with odds provided by BetMGM as of Wednesday, March 19. These platforms offer a convenient way to follow the action and stay updated on the latest developments.

The Duke Blue Devils are poised to make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament, but they must first overcome the challenge presented by the Lehigh Mountain Hawks. This game has the potential to be a classic tournament battle, with Duke looking to assert their dominance and Lehigh aiming to shock the world. Only time will tell who will emerge victorious and advance to the next round.

The Blue Devils will likely look to control the tempo of the game, utilizing their size and athleticism to impose their will on the Mountain Hawks. They will need to establish their inside game and force Lehigh to adjust their defensive strategy. Duke’s guards will also need to be effective in creating scoring opportunities and limiting turnovers.

For Lehigh, the key to success will be playing with discipline and executing their game plan flawlessly. They will need to limit Duke’s easy baskets and force them to earn every point. Albrecht’s leadership will be crucial, as she will need to keep her teammates focused and motivated throughout the game. The Mountain Hawks will also need to be aggressive on the boards and capitalize on any second-chance opportunities.

This matchup presents a fascinating contrast in styles and approaches. Duke’s superior talent and experience make them the clear favorite, but Lehigh’s determination and cohesiveness cannot be overlooked. The outcome of this game will depend on which team is able to execute their game plan most effectively and rise to the occasion. Regardless of the result, this contest promises to be an exciting and memorable chapter in the 2025 NCAA Women’s Tournament.