Three years ago, on April 2, 2022, college basketball fans witnessed one of the most unforgettable performances in NCAA Tournament history. In a high-stakes Final Four matchup between North Carolina and Duke, Caleb Love cemented his place in March Madness lore with a spectacular display of shot-making, resilience, and a cold-blooded three-pointer that sealed the game. The rivalry between UNC and Duke had never seen a clash quite like this—its first-ever meeting in the NCAA Tournament, adding another chapter to their storied history. And at the center of it all was Caleb Love.
The Build-Up: A Rivalry for the Ages
Heading into the Final Four, the anticipation surrounding the Duke vs. North Carolina matchup was at an all-time high. This was not just any meeting between the two legendary programs—it was the first time they had ever faced each other in the NCAA Tournament, and it came on the grandest stage of all. On top of that, this game carried historical weight, as it marked the final season for Duke’s legendary head coach, Mike Krzyzewski. With Coach K’s farewell tour on the line and a spot in the national championship game at stake, the intensity was palpable.
North Carolina, led by first-year head coach Hubert Davis, had already stunned the basketball world by defeating top-seeded Baylor and handling Cinderella story Saint Peter’s in the Elite Eight. The Tar Heels entered the game as underdogs against a Duke team loaded with NBA talent, including Paolo Banchero, Mark Williams, and AJ Griffin. But one player was ready to rise to the occasion—Caleb Love.
Caleb Love’s Heroics: A Night to Remember
From the opening tip, it was clear that Love had no intention of backing down from the moment. The sophomore guard showcased his offensive versatility, attacking the rim with confidence, hitting contested mid-range jumpers, and knocking down shots from beyond the arc. Every time Duke threatened to pull away, Love responded with a timely bucket, keeping North Carolina within striking distance.
His performance was impressive throughout, but it was in the second half—particularly in the closing moments—where Love truly became a legend. With just over a minute left in the game and UNC clinging to a three-point lead, Love received a high ball screen at the top of the key. With Duke’s seven-footer Mark Williams in front of him, Love created just enough separation to rise up and launch a deep three-pointer. The shot arced high over Williams’ outstretched hand and dropped through the net, sending the Tar Heel faithful into a frenzy. It was the dagger—a shot that silenced the Duke crowd and effectively ended the game.
Love finished the night with 28 points, including 22 in the second half, leading North Carolina to an 81-77 victory. The magnitude of the moment, combined with the pressure of the rivalry and Coach K’s impending retirement, made this performance one for the ages.
The Aftermath: Legacy Cemented
North Carolina’s victory over Duke sent shockwaves through the college basketball world. It not only ended Coach K’s storied career but also propelled the Tar Heels to the national championship game against Kansas. Though UNC ultimately fell short in the title game, Love’s heroics in the Final Four remained the defining moment of their tournament run.
For Caleb Love, the 2022 NCAA Tournament was a turning point in his career. Prior to that run, he had been inconsistent at times, showing flashes of brilliance but struggling with efficiency. However, in March, he flipped the switch, delivering clutch performances time and time again. His ability to rise to the occasion in big moments earned him a place in UNC’s rich basketball history, alongside other Tar Heel legends who shined in the Final Four.
Looking Back: What Made That Performance Special?
Three years later, Love’s performance against Duke is still talked about as one of the greatest moments in the rivalry’s history. What made it so special?
- The Stakes – A Final Four matchup between archrivals, with the winner advancing to the national title game and the loser watching their season—and, in Duke’s case, an era—come to an end.
- The Performance – Scoring 28 points on the biggest stage, including 22 in the second half, Love stepped up when it mattered most.
- The Shot – The dagger three-pointer over a seven-footer to seal the game, a shot that will forever be replayed in March Madness highlights.
- The Historical Impact – Ending Coach K’s career and solidifying his own legacy as one of UNC’s all-time clutch performers.
Where Is Caleb Love Now?
Since that magical night in 2022, Love’s journey in college basketball has been eventful. He continued to play for North Carolina, but after an up-and-down 2022-23 season, he transferred to Arizona, looking for a fresh start. As a Wildcat, he has remained a dynamic scoring guard, showcasing the same fearlessness that made him a March Madness legend.
While his career is still unfolding, one thing is certain—Caleb Love’s performance in the 2022 Final Four will never be forgotten. His dagger three against Duke is forever etched in college basketball history, a moment that defined an unforgettable tournament run. As fans continue to relive that night, Love’s name remains synonymous with clutch performances, proving that some shots are more than just points on a scoreboard—they are moments that live on forever.
Three years ago, Caleb Love took center stage and delivered when it mattered most. And for college basketball fans, that game will always be remembered as one of the greatest in NCAA history. 🔥
