Duke Predicted for Huge College Basketball Season in 2025-26
After a bitterly disappointing early exit from the 2025 NCAA Tournament, Duke is already looking ahead with optimism for the 2025-26 college basketball season. Despite their recent Sweet 16 upset by Houston, the Blue Devils are expected to bounce back in a major way, with a team poised to return to national prominence and make a serious run at the national championship.
A key factor in the high expectations surrounding Duke is their impressive recruiting class. Coach Jon Scheyer, who took over the program from legendary coach Mike Krzyzewski in 2022, has continued to build a roster filled with top-tier talent. The 2025-26 incoming class is no exception, with several high-profile recruits expected to make an immediate impact. Among them is five-star forward Tyler Washington, a player with elite scoring ability and defensive prowess, who is expected to be a cornerstone for Duke’s lineup. Alongside Washington, the Blue Devils will welcome five-star guard Ethan Hayes, known for his explosive athleticism and playmaking skills, which will give Duke a dynamic backcourt to pair with their already formidable roster.
Duke’s returning players are also a source of optimism. Jaden Hardaway, the standout freshman from the 2024-25 season, will return for his sophomore year, bringing a year of experience and growth. Hardaway’s scoring ability, combined with his solid defense, will make him one of the premier players in the ACC. In addition, veteran forwards like Kyle Bessler and Sam Leary, who have become important leaders for the program, will provide stability and experience, crucial elements for a deep postseason run.
Coach Jon Scheyer’s system, which emphasizes a fast-paced, high-pressure defense and efficient offense, is expected to continue evolving. After a rough start to his tenure with the early exit in 2025, Scheyer’s second full season will be a crucial year for the program’s development. He’s shown the ability to adjust and learn from past challenges, and with a talented roster returning, the Blue Devils are expected to be a formidable force in the ACC.
Furthermore, Duke’s schedule in 2025-26 includes several high-profile matchups that will challenge the team early on and prepare them for the NCAA Tournament. The Blue Devils are set to face some of the top programs in the country during non-conference play, including games against Kansas, Kentucky, and Michigan. These marquee games will provide the Blue Devils with opportunities to test their mettle and build momentum for the grueling ACC slate.
The return of several other key ACC teams, including North Carolina and Virginia, will make the conference even more competitive in 2025-26. However, with Duke’s mix of experienced players and highly-rated recruits, they are predicted to be one of the favorites to win the conference and secure a top seed in the tournament. The ACC Tournament will likely be a critical battleground, as Duke aims to reclaim its spot atop the college basketball landscape.
As the 2025-26 season approaches, there’s a palpable sense of excitement surrounding Duke basketball. After a frustrating season in 2025, the Blue Devils are poised for a major bounce-back year, and with a combination of returning stars and fresh talent, they look set to compete for their sixth NCAA Championship. If their recruiting success and recent development are any indication, the 2025-26 season could be the start of a new era of dominance for Duke basketball.
