Cleared to Play:: After sitting out the second-round win over Oregon because she "wasn't feeling well" and wasn't cleared by doctors, Duke coach Kara Lawson confirmed freshman star Toby Fournier will be available for the Sweet 16 game against UNC.
Player Confirmation:: Fournier herself stated on Thursday, "I’m feeling great. I’m here. Well rested, well hydrated. I’m ready to go."
Team Impact:: Fournier is Duke's leading scorer, averaging 13.4 points per game, and has appeared in 33 of the team's 35 games this season.
Previous UNC Performance:: Fournier was crucial in Duke's February 27th victory over UNC, contributing a double-double (19 points, 10 rebounds). However, she struggled in their first meeting on January 9th (2 points, 6 rebounds).
Why this matters:: Fournier's return is crucial for Duke's offensive firepower and rebounding presence, especially in a high-stakes rivalry game deep in the NCAA Tournament. Her availability significantly impacts Duke's chances against a familiar opponent.
Toby Fournier, a 19-year-old, 6-foot-2 forward from Toronto, Canada, has quickly become a key player for the Duke Blue Devils in her freshman season. She attended Crestwood Preparatory College, leading them to back-to-back provincial high school championships. Ranked as the #10 player nationally in the 2024 recruiting class by ESPN and named a Jordan Brand All-American, Fournier brought high expectations to Duke.
Coming off the bench, Fournier has delivered impressive numbers, averaging 13.4 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per game while shooting 53.2% from the field before the Sweet 16. She even possesses notable athleticism, gaining attention for her ability to dunk as early as age 14 and showcasing it in pregame warmups.
Her presence was sorely missed in Duke's second-round victory over Oregon. Her return against North Carolina is vital. The teams split their regular-season series, with UNC winning 53-46 in overtime in January and Duke taking the rematch 68-53 in late February, largely thanks to Fournier's dominant double-double performance. This Sweet 16 clash marks the first time these in-state rivals have met in the NCAA Tournament, adding extra weight to Fournier's availability.
The upcoming game is set for Friday at 1:30 p.m. CT at Legacy Arena in Birmingham, Alabama (ESPN). With Fournier back in the lineup, Duke aims to replicate their success from the February matchup and advance further in the tournament.
Can Toby Fournier dunk?
Yes, Fournier gained attention for dunking at age 14 and has been seen dunking in pregame warmups for Duke.
When is Toby Fournier eligible for the WNBA Draft?
Due to WNBA age requirements (must turn 22 in the draft year), Fournier will not be eligible until the 2028 WNBA Draft, assuming current rules remain.
Where is Toby Fournier from?
Toby Fournier is from Toronto, Canada.
Duke's Chances Improve:: Fournier's return significantly boosts Duke's prospects against UNC, providing scoring, rebounding, and athleticism.
Rivalry Renewed:: This is the third meeting this season between the rivals, but the first on the NCAA Tournament stage, making it a must-watch game.
Key Player to Watch:: Fournier's performance will be critical. Her ability to replicate her dominant February game against UNC could be the deciding factor.
Do you think Toby Fournier's return will be enough for Duke to overcome North Carolina? Let us know!
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