Tulin’s Treasures Shine in Parisian Twinbill on College Season’s Opening Day

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ago 8 hours

The college basketball season kicks off with an exciting doubleheader in Paris featuring ranked teams. This marks the third consecutive year for the Oui-Play season opener, which showcases significant matchups on an international stage.

Tulin’s Treasures Shine in Parisian Twinbill

On opening day of the 2025-26 season, Duke faces Baylor in a highly anticipated clash. Duke entered the previous season as a No. 2 seed and was eliminated by the No. 1 seeded South Carolina in the Elite Eight. Baylor, a No. 4 seed, fell in the round of 32 to Ole Miss. This matchup marks the first meeting between these two teams since the 2010 Elite Eight.

Matchup Details

Teams: Duke vs. Baylor
Previous Encounter: 2010 Elite Eight
Duke 2023-24 Record: 5-4 vs. ranked teams
Baylor Recent Performance: Lost six straight against top-10 opponents

In the inaugural Division I women’s game in Paris, South Carolina triumphed over Notre Dame, kicking off the season with enthusiasm. Last year’s prominent matches in Paris saw top-ranked teams competing fiercely, including USC versus Ole Miss and UCLA against Louisville.

Player Highlights

Duke’s Toby Fournier is notably one to watch this season. The Canadian sophomore was among the most effective freshmen last year, averaging 13.2 points and 5.3 rebounds per game. Fournier’s impressive performance in minimal minutes highlights her potential for greater impact.

On the Baylor side, Darianna Littlepage-Buggs, the second-leading scorer from last year’s squad, returns. She averaged 13.8 points and 10.0 rebounds per game. Newcomer Taliah Scott, an explosive guard, is expected to make a significant contribution after a limited recent playing time.

Upcoming Challenges for Ranked Teams

No. 11 North Carolina vs. NC Central: 11 AM
No. 12 Ole Miss vs. Norfolk State: noon on SEC Network
No. 2 South Carolina is set to face Grand Canyon and challenging performances from many programs are anticipated.

Overall, the start of the college basketball season presents a thrilling lineup of games, promising excitement for fans. As teams strive for success from the outset, all eyes will be on the matchups taking place across the country and in Paris.