Way-Too-Early Starting Five Projection for Duke Basketball’s 2025-26 Season
As the 2025-2026 college basketball season approaches, Duke University’s men’s basketball team, led by head coach Jon Scheyer, is set to enter a new era brimming with talent. With some key players returning and several highly anticipated recruits coming to Durham, the Blue Devils’ lineup for the upcoming season is full of promise. Here’s a breakdown of what a way-too-early starting five for Duke basketball might look like heading into the 2025-26 season.
1. Tyrese Proctor (Junior, Guard)
Tyrese Proctor will likely be the cornerstone of Duke’s backcourt in the 2025-26 season. After a sophomore campaign where he showed flashes of brilliance as a primary playmaker, Proctor is poised for a major leap. His ability to orchestrate the offense, create for teammates, and score effectively will make him the leader of this team. As a junior, Proctor will bring the maturity and experience needed to guide the Blue Devils through the grind of an ACC schedule and beyond. His growth in the offseason could see him emerge as one of the top point guards in the country.
2. Kon Knueppel (Freshman, Guard/Forward)
Kon Knueppel, a five-star recruit from Wisconsin, is expected to make an immediate impact as a versatile guard/forward for Duke. Knueppel’s combination of scoring, playmaking, and size at 6’6″ makes him an ideal fit for the Blue Devils’ style of play. Known for his ability to stretch the floor and create off the dribble, Knueppel could start alongside Proctor in the backcourt, providing a dynamic offensive duo. His basketball IQ and defensive potential also suggest he will contribute on both ends of the floor right from the start. His ability to play multiple positions will give Scheyer valuable lineup flexibility.
3. Cooper Flagg (Freshman, Forward)
The biggest addition to Duke’s roster for the 2025-26 season is Cooper Flagg, the consensus No. 1 recruit in the 2025 class. Flagg is a game-changer, known for his incredible athleticism, versatility, and elite defensive ability. Standing at 6’8″, Flagg can guard multiple positions and is a constant presence on both ends of the floor. Offensively, he is a skilled scorer capable of driving to the basket and knocking down shots from deep. His ability to impact the game in numerous ways makes him an obvious choice for a starting forward role. The 2025-26 season will likely serve as a showcase for Flagg’s skills, as he is expected to be a top pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.
4. Maliq Brown (Junior, Forward)
Maliq Brown, a transfer from Syracuse, will provide Duke with another experienced, versatile forward. Known for his defensive prowess and rebounding ability, Brown will give the Blue Devils a reliable presence in the frontcourt. His ability to defend the paint, block shots, and provide leadership on the floor will make him an essential piece of the starting lineup. Brown’s offensive game is still developing, but he has the potential to contribute as a secondary scorer and an efficient post player. His maturity and veteran experience will be crucial for a team that will have several freshmen playing significant roles.
5. Khaman Maluach (Freshman, Center)
Standing at 7’2″, Khaman Maluach is a towering presence in the paint. While still developing offensively, Maluach’s size and shot-blocking ability make him a strong candidate for Duke’s starting center position. His rim protection will be critical to Duke’s defensive scheme, and his ability to alter shots around the basket will give the Blue Devils an advantage in the post. Maluach’s rebounding and physicality will allow Duke to dominate inside, while his presence could open up opportunities for other players to thrive offensively.
Bench Considerations
Duke’s bench will be loaded with talent, offering several options for Scheyer to mix and match. Caleb Foster, a talented sophomore guard, will provide depth in the backcourt. Mason Gillis, a graduate transfer forward, will bring experience and floor-spacing. Isaiah Evans, a promising freshman guard, could provide an additional scoring spark off the bench.
With the combination of experienced players like Proctor and Brown alongside high-impact freshmen like Flagg, Knueppel, and Maluach, Duke is poised to be a powerhouse in the 2025-26 season. While the roster could change with injuries or further player development, this projected starting five offers a glimpse into what promises to be an exciting and competitive season for the Blue Devils.
