Why Is Kyle Filipowski Duke’s Knight in Shining Armour?

The 7-footer Kyle Filipowski has been a standout player on the Blue Devils’ roster this season. The consistency in his performances has turned out well for the team. Moreover, his ability to score points and his skill in making rebound shots have made him a key player for the Duke’s Blue Devils.

Although it can’t be done without the support of the team’s players, his resilient efforts and on-court leadership have made significant contributions to Duke’s success. Kyle’s powerful display recently made him Duke’s savior in a toe-to-toe tug match.

Kyle Filipowski rising to the occasion

This year, in response to his impressive on-court skills, Kyle has been awarded many honors including the 2023 ACC Rookie of the Year, ACC All-Freshman Team, and ACC Tournament MVP. However, Kyle added one more accolade yesterday by carrying the Duke Blue Devils to an 89-68 win over the Hofstra Pride.

Notably, Kyle hooped a season-high 28 points, 12 rebounds, and his career-best 8 assists, giving an all-round performance including 4 3-point shots and 3 blocked shots.

As reported by USA Today, Kyle said, “I think for me it was just a little mental, But I’ve got a great supporting cast, great teammates, great coaches. They keep their confidence high in me and when I don’t overthink it, things tend to go really well. Getting out of that funk, just playing, having fun — it’s a great feeling.”

As for Coach Jon Scheyer, Filipowski was “Just a force,” as he puts it. This season, Filipowski has been delivering an outstanding performance. He has been averaging 17.3 points, 8.9 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game. Moreover, he has been shooting with a field goal percentage of 50.

Starting all 36 games this season Filipowski has led the Blue Devils in scoring and rebounding both. His performance has been instrumental in Duke’s success as he already has posted 16 double-doubles and is leading all Division I freshmen across the nation. Moreover, Kyle cleverly uses his size and smoothly takes defenders off the dribble.

READ MORE: Forget Cooper Flagg, Duke Nation Have a New Star in the Making

But how did the Devils perform this time?

Duke Blue Devils going head-on with Hofstra Pride

The Blue Devils stood strong against the attacks made by the Hofstra Pride. The game was held at the Cameron Indoor Stadium. Including Kyle Filipowski, other star players were contributing to Duke’s 89-68 success.

Guard Jeremy Roach scored 19 points, 3 rebounds, and 8 assists, while forward Mark Mitchell added 14 points, 6 rebounds, and 2 assists. In addition, guard Jared McCain dropped 13 points and grabbed 4 rebounds. Overall, the Devils kept pushing the opponents and collected a fabulous win.

WATCH THIS STORY: What Happened to Angel Reeses’s Boyfriend Camron Fletcher

Filipowski, despite being a projected first-round selection in this year’s NBA Draft, chose to come back and play in his sophomore season, which is turning out really well for Duke’s succession.