Men's Basketball Begins 2024-25 Campaign at #7 Duke on Monday Night

Preview

The Marquette men's basketball team will tip off its 2024-25 campaign on Monday night when it travels to Durham, N.C., to face No. 7 Duke at Cameron Indoor Stadium.

The Blue Devils are coming off a 28-6 season in which they reached the Elite Eight of the NCAA Tournament. Duke returns four starters from that team, including All-American forward Zion Williamson.

The Golden Eagles, meanwhile, are coming off a 19-13 season in which they finished fifth in the Big East Conference. Marquette returns three starters from that team, including All-Big East guard Markus Howard.

Marquette's Strengths and Weaknesses

The Golden Eagles have a number of strengths heading into the 2024-25 season, including:

• All-Big East guard Markus Howard
• A deep and experienced backcourt
• A solid defense

However, the Golden Eagles also have some weaknesses, including:

• A lack of size in the frontcourt
• A young and inexperienced frontcourt
• A lack of depth on the wing

Duke's Strengths and Weaknesses

The Blue Devils have a number of strengths heading into the 2024-25 season, including:

• All-American forward Zion Williamson
• A deep and talented frontcourt
• A solid defense

However, the Blue Devils also have some weaknesses, including:

• A lack of experience in the backcourt
• A lack of depth on the wing
• A tendency to turn the ball over

Prediction

The Blue Devils are a clear favorite in this matchup. They have more talent and experience than the Golden Eagles, and they are playing at home.

However, the Golden Eagles have a chance to pull off the upset if they can play well together and limit Zion Williamson's impact.

My prediction is that Duke will win the game, but Marquette will keep it close.