BREAKING: Duke’s Patrick Ngongba II Set for Sophomore Return, Blue Devils Bolster Frontcour
DURHAM, NC – In a significant development for Duke basketball, rising sophomore big man Patrick Ngongba II has officially announced his return to the program for the 2025-2026 season. The news, confirmed via a release from the university, provides a crucial boost to the Blue Devils’ frontcourt depth and talent under head coach Jon Scheyer.
Ngongba, a highly-touted recruit who arrived in Durham as part of a loaded freshman class, battled injuries during his initial collegiate campaign. Despite missing the majority of his senior year in high school due to a foot injury, he steadily progressed throughout his freshman season at Duke. Playing in 30 games, the 6-foot-11, 250-pound center averaged 3.9 points and 2.7 rebounds in 10.5 minutes per contest. He showcased flashes of his potential, particularly with his tenacious rebounding and ability to finish around the rim, shooting an impressive 71.9% from the field.
His decision to return, following an integral role in Duke’s 2024-25 Final Four season (which appears to be a projected outcome, given the current date), indicates a strong belief in his development trajectory within the program. Ngongba’s presence, alongside fellow returning big Maliq Brown, gives the Blue Devils a formidable and versatile duo at the center position. Brown, a rising junior, also announced his return earlier, forming a tandem with varied skillsets that Scheyer can deploy depending on matchups.
With a healthy offseason ahead, expectations for Ngongba’s sophomore campaign are likely to rise dramatically. His ability to rebound, pass from the high post, and attack the basket over different types of defenders makes him a valuable asset. The added experience from his freshman year, including significant minutes in postseason play where he averaged 6.5 points and 1.2 blocks in 12.3 minutes per game in the ACC and NCAA Tournaments, will be invaluable.
Ngongba’s return solidifies a core group of rising sophomores and juniors for Duke, ensuring a lineup with plenty of game experience. This announcement comes as other highly-touted freshmen from his class, such as Cooper Flagg and Kon Knueppel, are projected to declare for the NBA Draft. Ngongba, along with rising sophomores Caleb Foster, Darren Harris, and Isaiah Evans (who also appears to be returning after an initial NBA Draft early entry flirtation), will form the backbone of a team looking to contend for another national title.
The commitment of Ngongba provides stability and promise for Duke’s future, as they continue to build a formidable roster blending experienced returners with elite incoming talent.
