Duke vs. Florida State: Women’s College Basketball Score – Feb 26, 2026 | ESPN

Durham, North Carolina – The Duke Blue Devils secured at least a share of the ACC regular-season title with a dominant 80-52 victory over the Florida State Seminoles on Thursday night. The win also guarantees Duke the top seed in next week’s ACC Tournament. This marks the most ACC victories in a season under head coach Kara Lawson, with the team finishing the regular season with a 16-1 conference record.

Toby Fournier led the Blue Devils with a stellar performance, scoring 22 points and grabbing 13 rebounds. Her performance was pivotal in Duke’s commanding second-half surge. Delaney Thomas contributed significantly with 13 points and a career-high 20 rebounds, whereas Taina Mair added a double-double of her own, scoring 11 points and securing 10 rebounds. Ashlon Jackson and Riley Nelson also reached double figures, adding 15 and 11 points respectively.

The game, played at Cameron Indoor Stadium in Durham, saw Duke take control after a closely contested first half. Leading 33-29 at halftime, the Blue Devils unleashed a 13-2 run to start the third quarter, effectively breaking the game open. They outscored the Seminoles 47-23 in the second half, demonstrating their superior strength and endurance. Duke’s impressive rebounding performance, outrebounding Florida State 54-30, was a key factor in their victory. This win comes after Duke’s first loss since December 4th, a narrow 53-51 defeat at Clemson on Sunday.

Duke Dominates Florida State, Clinches Top ACC Tournament Seed

The Duke Blue Devils’ victory over the Florida State Seminoles wasn’t just a win; it was a statement. The team’s performance underscored their position as a leading contender in women’s college basketball. The final score of 80-52 reflects Duke’s comprehensive control of the game, particularly in the second half. The team’s ability to respond effectively after a recent loss at Clemson demonstrates their resilience and focus. Duke’s 16 ACC wins are a testament to the program’s consistent excellence under Coach Lawson.

Florida State struggled to contain Duke’s offensive firepower and were significantly hampered by the Blue Devils’ dominance on the boards. Jasmine Shavers led the Seminoles with 21 points, while Sole Williams added 12. Though, these individual performances weren’t enough to overcome Duke’s balanced attack and relentless rebounding. Florida State finished the regular season with a 9-19 overall record and a 4-12 mark in ACC play.

Fournier and Thomas Lead Duke’s Offensive and Rebounding Prowess

Toby Fournier’s 22-point, 13-rebound performance was a standout contribution for Duke. Her ability to score from both inside and outside, combined with her rebounding tenacity, made her a constant threat for the Seminoles. Delaney Thomas’s career-high 20 rebounds were particularly impressive, showcasing her strength and determination. These two players, along with Taina Mair’s double-double, formed a formidable core that propelled Duke to victory. According to ESPN, Fournier’s performance was crucial in establishing Duke’s dominance in the paint.

The Blue Devils’ rebounding advantage was a critical factor in the game. Outrebounding Florida State 54-30 allowed Duke to control possession and create second-chance opportunities. This dominance on the boards not only contributed to their scoring but also limited Florida State’s opportunities to mount a comeback. The team’s commitment to rebounding, as highlighted by Thomas’s 20-rebound performance, exemplifies their all-around effort.

Looking Ahead: Duke Faces North Carolina, Florida State Visits Wake Forest

Duke will conclude its regular season on Sunday with a highly anticipated road game against the 21st-ranked North Carolina Tar Heels in Chapel Hill. This matchup promises to be a challenging contest, as North Carolina will undoubtedly be looking to avenge previous losses and potentially share the ACC regular-season title. The game is scheduled for Sunday, and will be a key test for Duke as they prepare for the ACC Tournament. ESPN reports that this game will be a crucial final test before the tournament.

Florida State, meanwhile, will travel to Wake Forest on Sunday to finish their regular season. The Seminoles will be looking to finish their season on a positive note, but will face a tough challenge against a Wake Forest team eager to improve its own tournament positioning. The game provides an opportunity for Florida State to build momentum heading into the offseason. The Seminoles will necessitate to focus on improving their rebounding and defensive efforts to compete effectively against Wake Forest.

ACC Tournament Implications and Duke’s Championship Aspirations

With their win over Florida State, Duke has secured the top seed in the upcoming ACC Tournament. This favorable seeding gives them a significant advantage as they navigate the tournament bracket. A top seed typically means avoiding the top teams until the later rounds, increasing their chances of reaching the championship game. The ACC Tournament is scheduled to initiate next week, and Duke will be looking to capitalize on their momentum and secure a conference championship.

Duke’s success this season has positioned them as a strong contender for the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament. Their 21-7 overall record and 16-1 ACC record demonstrate their ability to compete with the nation’s top teams. The team’s balanced scoring, strong rebounding, and tenacious defense develop them a formidable opponent. Coach Lawson’s leadership has been instrumental in the team’s success, and she has instilled a winning culture within the program. The Blue Devils will be aiming for a deep run in the NCAA Tournament, with aspirations of reaching the Final Four and competing for a national championship.

The Duke Blue Devils’ victory over Florida State is a significant achievement, marking a high point in a successful season. With the ACC regular-season title secured and the top seed in the tournament locked in, the team is well-positioned for continued success. Their next challenge comes on Sunday against North Carolina, a game that will undoubtedly test their mettle as they prepare for the postseason. The outcome of that game, and their performance in the ACC Tournament, will ultimately determine their path to the NCAA Tournament and their chances of competing for a national championship.

The next confirmed checkpoint is Duke’s game against North Carolina on Sunday, March 1st, 2026. We encourage our readers to share their thoughts on Duke’s performance and the upcoming ACC Tournament in the comments below. Don’t forget to share this article with fellow college basketball fans!