Durham’s own Duke Blue Devils kicked off their 2026-27 basketball season in emphatic fashion, rolling past Army 84-50 in their season opener to announce themselves as a force to be reckoned with. Ranked No. 2 in the nation heading into the game, the Blue Devils left no doubt about their intentions from the opening tip.
Leading the charge was Dame Sarr, who poured in 16 points to pace Duke’s offense. The performance was a statement win for a program that Durham fans have long rallied behind, and the lopsided final score signaled that this year’s squad has plenty of firepower heading into what promises to be an exciting season.
Duke’s football team also gave the Bull City something to cheer about just days earlier. Running back Sheppard turned in a jaw-dropping performance against Boston College, rushing for five touchdowns as the Blue Devils raced to a 47-2 victory. The dominant showing on both the hardwood and the gridiron has Durham buzzing with Blue Devil pride as the fall sports calendar heats up.
Together, the two victories offer Durham residents a pair of thrilling highlights to celebrate as the community gathers around its beloved university teams. Whether cheering courtside or watching from home, fans across the Bull City have plenty of reasons to feel good about the Blue Devils this season. With a top-two national ranking in basketball and a football squad firing on all cylinders, Duke — and Durham — are off to a rousing start.
Sources: www.the-messenger.com, www.the-messenger.com
