Duke Surges Past Siena, Stifling Saint's Upset Bid in NCAA Opener

No. 16 Siena led No. 1 Duke 43-32 at halftime, but Duke rallied in the second half to win 71-65, ending Siena’s hopes of an historic upset. Siena shot just 23.5% after halftime and struggled on the boards and at the free-throw line as Duke, boosted by a 22-point effort from Cameron Boozer, clawed back. Siena coach Gerry McNamara defended his decision to ride his starters late, praised his players’ grit, and expressed pride despite the heartbreak, while Duke advanced to keep its title chances alive.