DURHAM, N.C. _ Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski said prior to the season that his team was big and athletic, and would use that to control the glass and get out in transition.
Duke accomplished that Friday night in its season-opening game against Elon, rolling through the Phoenix, 97-68, at Cameron Indoor Stadium.
The game was never close. After just six minutes of play, Duke led 20-3. The Blue Devils' lead over the Phoenix never got closer than 12 points, and by halftime, they led 45-25. The second half was much of the same.
Duke senior guard Grayson Allen came out aggressive. He scored Duke's first eight points, going 3 for 3 from the field. He hit five of his first six 3-pointers. Allen finished the game with 22 points, on 8-of-15 shooting.
Freshman forward Marvin Bagley III was also aggressive. He scored a game-high 25 points in his first college basketball game. He was 12 for 18 from the floor.
With the game out of reach early, Krzyzewski went deep into his bench. Thirteen players played Friday night. Duke sophomore center Marques Bolden sat out with strep throat.
Friday's win gives Krzyzewski his 999th win at Duke. He has a chance to achieve 1,000 against Utah Valley State on Saturday.
