DURHAM, N.C. -- Duke opened the 2012-13 season with a 74-55 victory over Georgia State Friday evening, but the victory did not come as easily as many might have anticipated.

The Blue Devils started off the contest a bit sluggish on the offensive end of the floor, allowing the visiting Panthers to hang within single digits for the majority of the first half. It was not until the final three minutes of the opening half that Duke was able to begin building some separation - something that would continue through the final 20 minutes of action.

Georgia State presented a challenge for the Blue Devils with an unconventional zone defense that featured a full court or three quarters court press that would eventually morph into a 1-3-1 zone. The defense certainly presented some problems for the Blue Devils, however, the team felt they had open looks and opportunities to score - they simply just did not execute or capitalize.


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