DURHAM, N.C. — In a commanding performance, Ashlon Jackson led the No. 16 Duke women’s basketball team with 16 points, as they defeated Stanford 74-49 on Sunday. This matchup marked the first encounter between Duke and Stanford since they became ACC rivals, and the Blue Devils held the Cardinal to their lowest score of the season.

Duke’s defense proved dominant, forcing a total of 20 turnovers from Stanford, which translated into 25 points for the Blue Devils throughout the game. Duke’s largest lead reached 25 points, showcasing their control of the matchup.

The momentum shifted significantly in the second quarter. After trailing by four points at the end of the first quarter, Stanford’s Shay Ijiwoue scored to cut the lead to just one at 18-17. However, Duke quickly retaliated with a powerful 14-0 run, featuring a three-pointer from Jordan Wood, a three-point play by Jackson, and a couple of layups from Delany Thomas. Although Stanford managed to break the scoring drought with back-to-back layups, Duke responded with an 11-0 run to wrap up the half, leading 43-21 at halftime.

While Jackson’s shooting was a bit off, hitting only 5-of-15 from the field, she excelled from the free-throw line, going a perfect 5-for-5. Delany Thomas stood out as well, achieving her first double-double of the season with 12 points and 10 rebounds, while Taina Mair contributed 13 points along with six assists and a couple of steals.

On the other side, Nunu Agara was the standout for Stanford, scoring 15 points and pulling down 10 rebounds, although she was the only Cardinal player to score in double figures. Stanford struggled offensively, shooting just 18-of-55 from the field and only 4-of-9 from three-point range.

Looking ahead, Duke is set to face SMU on Thursday, while Stanford will return home to take on rival No. 18 California the same day.