Sun Apr 06 01:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Duke’s Reign and the Enduring Hatred: A Look at the Men’s Final Four

**San Antonio, TX** – The 2025 Men’s Final Four is set, with Florida facing Auburn and Duke battling Houston, but The Athletic’s Joe Rexrode takes a look back at the enduring legacy of Duke basketball and the reasons behind the intense, often irrational, hatred the program inspires.

While the upcoming games promise excitement, Rexrode argues that the 1991 Duke-UNLV national semifinal deserves more attention. Duke’s upset victory over the undefeated Runnin’ Rebels not only preserved Indiana’s 1976 team as the last undefeated champion but also marked, according to the author, the last time it was “OK to not hate Duke.”

The article explores the multifaceted reasons behind Duke’s widespread unpopularity. While acknowledging the team’s incredible success under Coach Mike Krzyzewski, Rexrode points to a perceived air of elitism and hypocrisy, fueled by the program’s consistent ability to attract top talent. He compares Duke’s brand to that of other intensely disliked franchises like the Dallas Cowboys or New York Yankees, citing the large and passionate fan base that generates equally fervent resentment.

The author also highlights the controversial actions of some Duke players, like Christian Laettner’s infamous stomp on a Kentucky player, contributing to the negative perception. However, Rexrode balances this by acknowledging the many likeable players who have graced the Duke program. He suggests that the lasting negative image is often shaped by a few key incidents rather than a consistent pattern of poor behavior.

The piece also touches on the changing landscape of college basketball, with the increasing financial stakes potentially altering the dynamics of player recruitment. Despite this, Duke continues to secure top talent under Coach Jon Scheyer, who, according to Rexrode, so far lacks the controversial aspects that have defined some previous Duke players and coaches. The author concludes that time and another championship win might be needed before the current perception of Scheyer, and indeed Duke, truly shifts.

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