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Halftime update: Defense is prevailing

When the best offense in the country goes up against the best defense in the country, something has to give and defense has shined through so far.

By Albie Shore
NCAA Basketball: Northwestern State at Texas Tech Michael C. Johnson-USA TODAY Sports

The 12th ranked Texas Tech Red Raiders have walked into the mecca of basketball, Madison Square Garden against the second ranked team in the country and have taken every punch Duke has while punching back themselves.

Tech has a slim one point lead over Duke because of their fierce defense that has become synonymous with Chris Beard’s program. Tech has forced five charges and 10 turnovers while getting both Zion Williamson and Cam Reddish into foul trouble.

Texas Tech could have a much bigger lead if not for the uncanny turnovers. The Red Raiders have committed an uncharacteristic 15 turnovers. The turnovers must stop if Tech is going to pull off the upset.

Many scouts are in the building as well as NBA stars such as Trae Young, Jimmy Butler and Zhaire Smith. Jarrett Culver must have noticed as he is playing like the best player on the court with 14 points, four rebounds, and two steals.

If Culver and the rest of the Red Raiders keep this up, there will be a Red Raider nation party tonight.

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