Duke Basketball Under Jon Scheyer: Transfer Portal News, 2025 Recruits, Roster, and Targets
Under the leadership of Jon Scheyer, Duke basketball has transitioned into an era defined by a blend of elite recruiting, strategic use of the transfer portal, and a focus on player development. As Scheyer enters his third year as head coach, the Blue Devils are poised for continued success with a roster that combines dynamic freshmen, experienced transfers, and a highly competitive recruiting strategy.
Roster Overview and Departures
The 2024–2025 season marked significant changes for Duke. The program faced departures of key players, most notably All-American forward Kyle Filipowski, who declared for the NBA Draft, and veteran guard Jeremy Roach, who transferred to Baylor. Additionally, Jared McCain’s decision to enter the NBA Draft and Mark Mitchell’s transfer to Missouri further shifted the team’s dynamics. Despite these losses, Duke’s roster remains formidable, bolstered by key returning players such as guards Tyrese Proctor and Caleb Foster, who are expected to take on larger roles this season.
Recruiting the Class of 2025
Jon Scheyer and his staff have made significant strides in assembling a talent-rich recruiting class for the 2025 season. Duke’s recruiting efforts have consistently attracted top-tier prospects, and the incoming class is no exception. Headlining the 2025 recruits are five-star players like Cooper Flagg, a small forward with the potential to be a lottery pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, and Khaman Maluach, a highly coveted center. Both players bring elite skills that will be vital to Duke’s future success. Flagg is expected to make an immediate impact, with his versatility and defensive prowess positioning him as a cornerstone of the Blue Devils’ program. Maluach, similarly, is poised to strengthen Duke’s frontcourt, offering size and athleticism that can dominate at both ends of the floor.
Transfer Portal Strategy
In addition to securing top recruits, Coach Scheyer has embraced the transfer portal to address immediate roster needs and add veteran experience. One of the most notable transfers is Mason Gillis, a graduate forward from Purdue. Gillis brings invaluable experience, having played in multiple NCAA tournaments, and his leadership will be essential for a young Duke team. His steady play and ability to contribute in both scoring and defense provide much-needed depth, particularly in crucial matchups.
The transfer portal has become a critical tool for Duke, allowing Scheyer to complement his incoming freshmen with seasoned players who can provide leadership and contribute right away. This blend of high school talent and experienced transfers is a strategy Scheyer has utilized successfully, ensuring that the Blue Devils remain competitive while building for long-term success.
Insiders’ Insights and NIL Strategy
Duke’s success on the court is also complemented by a well-structured off-court strategy, particularly regarding Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities. Insiders have highlighted the role of the One Vision Futures Fund (OVFF), Duke’s NIL collective, which has been instrumental in supporting players. The OVFF ensures that NIL deals are structured in a way that benefits athletes while maintaining the program’s core values of teamwork and development. This behind-the-scenes strategy allows Duke to stay competitive in the ever-evolving landscape of college basketball, where NIL deals have become a significant factor in recruitment.
Looking to the Future
With the combination of elite recruits, strategic transfers, and innovative coaching, Duke under Jon Scheyer is positioned for continued dominance in college basketball. The program’s adaptability in utilizing the transfer portal alongside a strong recruiting pipeline ensures that the Blue Devils remain a force to be reckoned with for years to come. As Scheyer continues to shape the future of Duke basketball, the program’s balance of experience, talent, and forward-thinking strategies will be key to its sustained success.
