Reliving the Epic: Duke vs. Maryland's 2001 ACC Tournament Showdown

The 2001 ACC Tournament Final was more than just a game; it was a pulsating chapter in one of college basketball's most intense rivalries. Duke, ranked #2, faced off against #6 Maryland, a familiar foe in what had already been a season of epic battles. The Greensboro Coliseum buzzed with an electric atmosphere, a perfect storm brewing for a championship clash that would etch itself into the annals of history.

From the opening tip, Maryland, hungry for an ACC title and revenge, dictated the pace.

Led by the relentless Juan Dixon and the powerful Lonny Baxter, the Terrapins played with a ferocity that seemed to overwhelm the Blue Devils. They attacked the basket, hit crucial shots, and built a significant lead, sending waves of concern through the Duke faithful. It felt like Maryland's day, their moment to finally overcome their arch-rivals, as they surged ahead, looking poised to run away with the championship.

But true champions are forged in adversity, and Duke's roster, brimming with future NBA talent like Shane Battier, Jay Williams, Carlos Boozer, and Mike Dunleavy Jr., refused to yield.

The comeback began methodically, a testament to Coach K's strategic genius and the team's unwavering resolve. Shane Battier, the ultimate leader, anchored the defense and made timely plays, while the dynamic Jay Williams started to assert his dominance. He wasn't just scoring; he was orchestrating, making incredibly difficult shots look effortless, pushing the tempo, and chipping away at Maryland's lead with every possession.

As the second half unfolded, the game transformed into a seesaw battle of wills.

Every basket was met with a retort, every defensive stop a monumental effort. The tension was palpable, each possession feeling like it held the weight of the entire tournament. Williams, in particular, was spectacular, hitting improbable jumpers and driving fearlessly into the paint, willing his team back into contention.

The crowd was on its feet, roaring with every shift in momentum.

In the dying minutes, with the game hanging in the balance, it was Williams who delivered the decisive blows. His clutch baskets, including a breathtaking step-back jumper that seemed to defy logic, provided the separation Duke desperately needed.

Maryland, despite the valiant efforts of Dixon and Baxter, simply couldn't find an answer for Duke's late-game surge. When the final buzzer sounded, Duke emerged victorious, 84-82, completing an improbable comeback and clinching yet another ACC Tournament title.

This game wasn't just a win; it was a statement.

It epitomized the 2001 Duke team's incredible resilience and their ability to perform under immense pressure. It also solidified the Duke-Maryland rivalry as one of the most compelling in college sports, showcasing two elite teams pushing each other to their absolute limits. Years later, this thrilling encounter remains a "YouTube Gold" classic, a reminder of an era of intense competition, superstar talent, and unforgettable moments that define the magic of March Madness.