Duke Basketball Slides in ESPN’s Preseason Top 25 Following NBA Draft Decisions
After initially climbing to No. 6 in ESPN’s “Way-Too-Early” Top 25 rankings for the 2025β26 season, the Duke Blue Devils have experienced a notable drop following the NBA draft withdrawal deadline. The departure of key players, particularly Washington State transfer Cedric Coward, who opted to remain in the NBA draft, has impacted Duke’s projected roster strength.
The Blue Devils had previously benefited from the return of standout freshman Isaiah Evans, which contributed to their rise in the rankings. However, Coward’s decision to stay in the draft has necessitated adjustments to Duke’s lineup and expectations for the upcoming season.
Despite these changes, Duke’s recruiting class remains among the nation’s best, featuring top talents like Cameron Boozer. Head coach Jon Scheyer will look to integrate these newcomers effectively to maintain the program’s competitive edge.
As the 2025β26 season approaches, Duke’s ability to adapt to roster changes and develop its young talent will be crucial in determining its success on the cour
