No. 17 Duke Battles No. 4 Syracuse in Key ACC Lacrosse Showdown
Duke, ranked 17th, is gearing up for a critical matchup against 4th-ranked Syracuse on April 4, as they approach the end of their regular season with three straight games against ranked opponents. Syracuse is on a hot streak with 10 consecutive wins after a rocky 0-3 start. Both teams sit at 5-2 in the ACC standings and are battling for positioning in the conference. The opening draw is at 4 p.m. and will be broadcasted live on ACC Network. The historic rivalry sees Syracuse leading 9-2 in their all-time encounters, including a 4-1 record in Durham.
By the Numbers- 1 – Ellie White's ACC ranking in total draw controls (140) and average draw controls per game (10.77)
- 4 – Blue Devils ranked in the top 25 of NCAA individual statistics: Eva Pronti (4th in assists), Ellie White (5th in draw controls per game), Avery Doran (17th in shot percentage), and Ava Biancardi (23rd in goals)
- 7 – Duke players with double-figure points this year: Eva Pronti (59), Ava Biancardi (49), Avery Doran (49), Bella Goodwin (49), Quinn Whitaker (35), Sadie Stafford (22), and Caitlin Barrett (10)
- 17 – Duke's ranking in Week 7 of IWLCA
- 373 – Career victories for head coach Kerstin Kimel, 369 at Duke
- Duke is currently tied for third in the ACC standings with a 5-2 record.
- Both teams are in strong form, with each sporting a powerful offensive lineup.
- Syracuse seeks to maintain its momentum after a significant turnaround from their season start.
Following the Syracuse matchup, Duke will face another challenge against No. 11 Clemson on April 11, as they continue their critical stretch against ranked opponents. These games will be crucial for establishing playoff positioning in the ACC.
Bottom LineThis matchup between Duke and Syracuse is poised to be pivotal, not just for bragging rights in the ACC but also for the positioning in national rankings as both teams look to solidify their playoff aspirations. Watch for standout performances from key players on both sides, particularly in the draw control battles.
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