Duke Loses Final Four Lead, Falls to Houston

In a stunning upset at the Final Four, Duke basketball, led by standout Cooper Flagg, squandered a 14-point lead against Houston, ultimately losing 70-67. The Blue Devils were in control for much of the game, but a late surge from Houston, highlighted by Emanuel Sharp scoring nine consecutive points, turned the tide. Duke's inability to execute in the final minutes, including a missed free throw and critical turnovers, was heavily criticized, particularly the coaching decisions made by Jon Scheyer. As the game neared its conclusion, Duke was outscored 25-8, failing to secure rebounds and execute basic plays. This loss not only ends Duke's quest for their first national championship in a decade but also draws parallels with previous Final Four collapses in San Antonio. The heartbreaking defeat left Duke players and fans grappling with a profound sense of disappointment and disbelief.