Duke Basketball Enters Race for Elite Transfer Guard: Princeton Star Xaivian Lee’s Recruitment
Duke Basketball has officially entered the race to recruit one of the most highly sought-after transfer guards in the nation: Xaivian Lee of Princeton University. Lee, a standout player for the Tigers, has caught the attention of several top-tier college programs, and the Blue Devils’ involvement adds another layer of intrigue to his recruitment process.
Lee’s journey at Princeton has been nothing short of exceptional. Over the course of the 2024-25 season, Lee emerged as a dominant force in the Ivy League, earning First-Team All-Ivy honors for his performance on the court. The 6-foot-4 point guard showcased his versatility by averaging 16.9 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game. His ability to impact all aspects of the game has drawn widespread attention from collegiate powerhouses and NBA scouts alike.
Perhaps Lee’s most memorable moment came in December 2024 when he made history by recording Princeton’s first-ever triple-double in a thrilling victory over St. Joseph’s. Lee finished the game with 18 points, 13 rebounds, and 10 assists, showcasing his unique blend of scoring, playmaking, and rebounding skills. This performance not only elevated his status as one of the top guards in the country but also solidified his place among the most intriguing prospects in the transfer portal.
Lee’s decision to enter the transfer portal after an impressive sophomore season has set off a frenzy among top programs vying for his services. The point guard’s skill set, coupled with his ability to shine on the big stage, makes him an ideal fit for any program looking to make a deep run in the NCAA tournament. His decision to leave Princeton after two seasons has set the stage for a fierce recruitment battle.
Duke, a program known for producing top-tier talent, has officially joined the fray. Under the leadership of Coach Jon Scheyer, the Blue Devils have consistently recruited high-level players, and the addition of Lee could significantly bolster their backcourt for the upcoming season. Lee’s size, playmaking ability, and leadership qualities would seamlessly complement Duke’s existing roster, making him a coveted target.
In addition to Duke, other prominent programs like the University of Kentucky and St. John’s have expressed interest in landing Lee. Kentucky, known for its tradition of developing elite point guards, is another strong contender in the race. The Wildcats’ established reputation and the opportunity to play in a major basketball conference make them a compelling option for Lee as he looks to take his game to the next level.
As Lee explores his transfer options, the intrigue surrounding his decision only continues to grow. Analysts and fans alike are eagerly awaiting his final choice, as it could significantly alter the trajectory of the 2025-26 college basketball season. Duke’s entry into the race for Lee’s services has raised the stakes, and the Blue Devils will certainly be a program to watch closely in the coming weeks.
The decision ultimately comes down to what Lee values most: a chance to compete for championships, the opportunity to develop his skills further under elite coaching, or perhaps even the promise of a more prominent role at a particular program. Wherever Lee chooses to go, there’s no doubt he will bring his incredible talent and leadership to his new team, making him one of the most exciting prospects in the transfer portal this offseason.
In the end, Xaivian Lee’s recruitment will be one of the defining storylines of the 2025 transfer season, and Duke Basketball’s pursuit of the Ivy League star only adds to the intrigue surrounding his future. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as one of the nation’s top guards makes his decision.
