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JUST IN: Two NBA Teams Make Surprise Push for Jon Scheyer, $7.5M Offer Includes Endorsements and Power Role
By Marcus Tolland | The Athletic Wire | May 4, 2025
In a stunning and unexpected development, two NBA franchises—the Brooklyn Nets and the Chicago Bulls—have reportedly entered into direct negotiations with Duke men’s basketball head coach Jon Scheyer, offering a combined package worth $7.5 million annually, including high-level endorsement opportunities and roster-building authority.
Multiple league sources confirmed to The Athletic Wire that both organizations have approached Scheyer in the past 72 hours, initiating what insiders are calling an “aggressive full-court press” to pry the 37-year-old coaching prodigy away from Durham.
Scheyer, who succeeded the legendary Mike Krzyzewski in 2022, has quickly crafted his own legacy at Duke. Under his leadership, the Blue Devils have maintained elite recruiting classes, made three consecutive Sweet 16 appearances, and reached the National Championship Game in 2024. He is widely praised for his sharp basketball IQ, adaptive offense, and ability to develop young players into NBA-ready stars.
The NBA Comes Calling
Both Brooklyn and Chicago are in coaching limbo. The Nets, following a dismal 2024–25 campaign and the firing of interim coach Kevin Ollie, are reportedly looking to “reset the culture” with a younger, long-term leader. Meanwhile, the Bulls, frustrated after yet another early playoff exit and internal turmoil around roster decisions, are eyeing Scheyer as both a tactician and a brand-builder.
“What you’re seeing is a shift in how front offices view coaching potential,” said ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski. “Scheyer represents the next-gen coach—modern, media-savvy, player-centric. Both franchises believe he could be their Erik Spoelstra.”
The Offer Breakdown
According to sources, the proposed contracts include:
A base salary of $5 million per year
A $2.5 million endorsement package, including partnerships with Adidas (Brooklyn) and Nike/Jordan Brand (Chicago)
Control over player development staff and a voice in free agency moves
Relocation benefits and family support accommodations
Both teams have reportedly guaranteed Scheyer the freedom to bring elements of his Duke coaching staff with him.
Chicago’s Emotional Edge
Scheyer, a native of Northbrook, Illinois, grew up idolizing the Bulls. The franchise is leveraging that personal connection. Sources say Bulls ownership believes their hometown pitch, combined with Nike’s involvement and a talented young core centered around Coby White and Patrick Williams, gives them a strong advantage.
“If there’s a sentimental play here, it’s Chicago,” said Fox Sports analyst and former coach Stan Van Gundy. “But Brooklyn’s offer might appeal more strategically—New York market, cap space, and a clean slate.”
Will He Leave Duke?
So far, Scheyer has made no public comment. A Duke spokesperson told The Athletic Wire, “Coach Scheyer is focused on continuing Duke’s tradition of excellence. We are aware of professional interest and will support him in any decisions he makes.”
As the basketball world holds its breath, one thing is clear: Jon Scheyer isn’t just a college coach anymore—he’s officially an NBA-level commodity.
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