Author: Prince Owo Blo

Tyler Thornton Returns to Duke as Assistant Coach Under Jon Scheyer Duke Basketball has welcomed back a familiar face with the hiring of former Blue Devils captain Tyler Thornton as an assistant coach under head coach Jon Scheyer. The move was officially announced on May 30, marking Thornton’s return to Durham after spending six successful seasons as an assistant coach at Howard University. Thornton, who played for Duke from 2010 to 2014 under legendary coach Mike Krzyzewski, was known for his leadership, defensive grit, and basketball IQ. During his college career, he played in over 140 games, helping guide the…

Vikings’ WR Justin Jefferson Skips OTAs Amid Contract Extension Talks Minnesota Vikings star wide receiver Justin Jefferson has been noticeably absent from the team’s organized team activities (OTAs), sparking speculation as contract extension negotiations continue behind the scenes. The absence, though not mandatory, comes as the All-Pro receiver enters the final year of his rookie deal. Jefferson, widely regarded as one of the top receivers in the NFL, has set numerous records since being drafted in 2020. With three Pro Bowl selections and over 5,800 receiving yards already under his belt, the 25-year-old has made a strong case to become…

Harrison Smith Returning for 14th NFL Season with Reworked Vikings Deal Minnesota Vikings veteran safety Harrison Smith is officially returning for his 14th NFL season after agreeing to a restructured deal with the team. The longtime fan favorite and six-time Pro Bowler continues to be a cornerstone of the Vikings’ defense and locker room leadership. Smith, 36, has spent his entire NFL career in Minnesota after being drafted in the first round in 2012. Over the years, he has built a reputation as one of the most intelligent and versatile safeties in the league. With 34 career interceptions and over…

Vikings Rookie QB J.J. McCarthy Declares: “I Know I’m Ready to Start” Minnesota Vikings rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy is exuding confidence as he prepares for what could be his first season as a starter in the NFL. After recovering from a torn meniscus that sidelined him during much of his rookie campaign, McCarthy told reporters this week, “I know I’m ready to start.” The statement, made during a media availability following Vikings OTA sessions, signals a bold and focused mindset from the young quarterback. Drafted in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft out of Michigan, McCarthy has been…

Vikings Head Coach Kevin O’Connell Honored with 2025 Horrigan Award Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell has been named the recipient of the 2025 Horrigan Award by the Pro Football Writers of America (PFWA), a prestigious honor that recognizes professionalism, availability, and cooperation with the media. The award, named after the late Jack Horrigan—a respected journalist and public relations figure in pro football—is presented annually to a league or team official who demonstrates consistent transparency and respect in dealings with reporters. O’Connell’s receipt of the award reflects not only his successful coaching tenure but also his approachability and steady communication…

Vikings Extend GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah’s Contract, Signaling Long-Term Vision The Minnesota Vikings have made a bold statement about their future by extending the contract of General Manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah. The team officially announced the extension on May 30, 2025, reinforcing their commitment to the strategic direction and leadership Adofo-Mensah has brought since taking over the front office in 2022. Adofo-Mensah, known for his analytical approach and modern roster-building philosophy, has guided the Vikings through a period of significant transition. During his tenure, the team has overhauled its salary cap, drafted promising young talent—including quarterback J.J. McCarthy—and remained competitive in the…

Coach Jon Scheyer Emphasizes Player Development in Duke’s 2025 Offseason Plan As Duke Men’s Basketball gears up for the 2025–26 season, head coach Jon Scheyer is doubling down on one of the program’s core values: player development. In a recent media availability, Scheyer outlined his offseason strategy, which centers on maximizing the potential of both returning players and incoming freshmen, signaling a focused approach to building the next national championship contender. Scheyer, entering his fourth season at the helm, has already shown a strong track record for nurturing talent. Under his leadership, players like Kyle Filipowski, Jared McCain, and Tyrese…

Duke Freshman Caleb Foster Expected to Take on Bigger Role in 2025–26 Season As the Duke Blue Devils prepare for another title-contending season, rising sophomore Caleb Foster is poised to step into a significantly larger role. After a promising freshman year, the 6-foot-5 combo guard is expected to shoulder more offensive and leadership responsibilities following the departure of several upperclassmen and NBA-bound players. Foster, a former five-star recruit out of California, played in 32 games during the 2024–25 season, averaging 7.4 points, 2.1 rebounds, and 2.8 assists in limited minutes. Despite a modest stat line, he demonstrated flashes of brilliance…

Tyrese Proctor Announces Return to Duke for Junior Season In a major boost for Duke basketball, guard Tyrese Proctor has announced he will return for his junior season in 2025–26. The 6-foot-5 Australian playmaker brings back experience, leadership, and two-way talent to a Blue Devils squad aiming to stay atop the college basketball landscape. Proctor’s decision to return comes amid speculation that he might enter the 2025 NBA Draft, where he was projected as a late first-round or early second-round pick. However, after careful consideration, Proctor cited “unfinished business” and his desire to win a national championship as primary reasons…

Jared McCain Declares for 2025 NBA Draft After Stellar Freshman Season Duke guard Jared McCain has officially declared for the 2025 NBA Draft following an outstanding freshman campaign that saw him emerge as one of college basketball’s most polished scorers and charismatic personalities. The announcement, made via social media and confirmed by Duke Athletics, marks the next chapter in McCain’s fast-rising basketball journey. McCain, a 6-foot-3 sharpshooter from California, was a key contributor to Duke’s Final Four run this past season. Averaging 15.9 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game while shooting over 41% from three-point range, McCain became…