Duke vs St. John's: Foster's Return Boosts Devils

0:00On March 23rd, Duke Blue Devils take on St. John's Red Storm in the Sweet 16 this Friday. The top-seated Devils punch their ticket with an 81-58 win over TCU, marking their third straight trip to this round under coach. John Shire. Meanwhile, the fifth-seated Red Storm pulled off a nail-biter, beating Kansas 67-65. Duke has pushed forward despite nagging injuries. Half-more-center Patrick Nongbae suited up for the first time since early March against TCU, shaking off foot soreness at six feet 11 inches tall. Junior Guard Caleb Foster has missed action since fracturing his foot in Duke's regular season finale against North Carolina. His absence loomed large, but he brings veterans smarts to a young squad averaging career bests, like 8.5 points, 2.8 assists, and over 40% from three. The big news is Shire now giving Foster an outside shot at playing against St. John's. That could boost Duke's back court just when they needed for a deep tournament run.

1:03St. John's ruled the big east with regular season and tournament crowns, ranking 8th nationally in defensive efficiency. They meet Friday, March 27th, at Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C., tipping off at 7.10pm eastern time with an elite 8, birth on the line.