Jeremy Roach saved Duke, Coach K, in thriller win over Texas Tech

Duke has an unexpected ace in their sleeve.

On Thursday night, it certainly looked like Mike Krzyzewski’s swan song with Duke was coming to an end. Behind its physical, grimy defense, Texas Tech had knocked the Blue Devils (favored by a point heading into the contest) down to the mat over and over. More importantly, they showed no signs of letting up.

This was it. A 42-year legendary run in men’s college basketball, over, in the Sweet 16. Not the way anyone had envisioned Coach K leaving the game. Oh well. Happy endings are rare, and you shouldn’t expect them.

But Duke wasn’t finished. Far from it. Krzyzewski had hope of his final run continuing. All thanks to sophomore guard Jeremy Roach.

As Duke responded in this back-and-forth battle, Roach was instrumental. Beginning at the 10:07 mark of the second half, it seemed like he was in on every play. A layup. A free throw here and there. A steal. A layup. A jumper in the face of a tenacious Red Raider defender. Another jumper.

When the Blue Devils finally started to take control in the closing moments, Roach potted what felt like a dagger in an eventual 78-73 Duke win.

Onions, ice in your veins, and every hallmark of a clutch play. A classic “Duke” moment in March, in one of Coach K’s last March moments with Duke, delivered by a guard like Roach, who was ready for the March stage.

All in all, Roach chipped in 15 points (13 in the second half), five assists, and four boards. It’s the guard’s third straight tournament game in double-figures scoring. Considering Duke was on the ropes, that’s not bad for a guy who averaged just over eight total points a game during the regular season.

In the coach’s last ride, Duke is on to the Elite Eight against Arkansas. Even better, they have their X-Factor.

His name is Jeremy Roach. Remember it.

Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO).