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Duke Leads ACC Power Rankings

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Sunday, January 11th 2026 at 23:44 GMT by Sporting News

Durham, NC - January 12, 2026 - Duke University's men's basketball team has firmly established itself as the top contender in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) according to ESPN's latest power rankings, released Sunday. The Blue Devils' impressive start to the 2026-2027 season has positioned them at the summit, though Virginia University looms large as the most significant threat to their potential conference championship run.

ESPN's rankings, reflecting performance through games played on Sunday, January 11th, paint a picture of a competitive ACC landscape, with several teams vying for contention. Here's the complete list:

1. Duke
2. Virginia
3. North Carolina
4. Florida State
5. Clemson
6. Miami
7. Syracuse
8. Louisville
9. NC State
10. Wake Forest
11. Boston College
12. Pittsburgh
13. Georgia Tech
14. Notre Dame
15. Virginia Tech

Duke's Commanding Lead

Duke's ascension to the top spot is no accident. The Blue Devils have showcased an exceptional level of play, consistently demonstrating a remarkable balance between offensive prowess and defensive fortitude. Early season victories have been marked by their ability to dictate the game's tempo, effectively controlling possessions and executing their game plan with precision. While specific player statistics haven't been highlighted in ESPN's analysis, observers note a strong team chemistry and an effective utilization of the entire roster, contributing to their sustained success.

Coach K's successor, Coach Harrison, appears to have seamlessly maintained the program's winning tradition, adjusting strategies and player rotations with a keen eye for maximizing the team's potential. The team's commitment to fundamentals and relentless effort on both ends of the court have left opponents struggling to contain their momentum.

Virginia: The Consistent Challenger

The Cavaliers, consistently ranked among the nation's elite, present the most credible challenge to Duke's dominance. Their hallmark is a seasoned and disciplined approach to the game. Virginia's defensive structure remains a formidable barrier for opponents, forcing turnovers and limiting scoring opportunities. They possess the experience and strategic depth to navigate the inevitable challenges of a long and demanding conference schedule. While their offensive output might not be as flashy as Duke's, their ability to capitalize on mistakes and grind out victories is a testament to their resilience and championship pedigree. Many analysts are already predicting a potential Duke-Virginia clash in the ACC Tournament final.

The Middle Tier: North Carolina and Florida State

North Carolina and Florida State round out the top five, each possessing qualities that keep them in contention. North Carolina's athleticism, fueled by a group of highly-rated recruits, provides a dynamic scoring threat. However, inconsistencies in their performance have prevented them from reaching their full potential. Florida State, known for its suffocating defense, presents a tough matchup for any opponent. Both teams will need to address these weaknesses if they hope to seriously challenge the leaders.

Looking Ahead: A Competitive Conference

The early part of the 2026 ACC season has delivered on its promise of heightened competition. Teams like Miami, Clemson, and Louisville are showing flashes of brilliance, while others are battling to improve their standing. The conference's depth suggests that any team capable of putting together a consistent run could potentially make a deep tournament run. The upcoming weeks will be crucial as teams navigate conference play, revealing their true strengths and weaknesses. The race for the ACC title is shaping up to be a thrilling and unpredictable one, with Duke and Virginia firmly in the spotlight.