Duke Comes in as the Betting Favorite for 2026 College Basketball Season
As the 2025-2026 college basketball season draws nearer, the Duke Blue Devils have firmly established themselves as the betting favorites for the national championship. This comes as no surprise to fans and analysts alike, as the program, under the leadership of head coach Jon Scheyer, has continued to thrive in both recruiting and player development.
Dominant Recruiting Classes
One of the key reasons Duke enters as the early favorite is its consistently outstanding recruiting. The Blue Devils have long been a dominant force in college basketball due to their ability to attract top-tier talent from across the nation. The 2026 class, which is already shaping up to be one of the best in the country, continues this trend. With a mix of five-star recruits and highly sought-after players, Duke is poised to field one of the most talented rosters in the country.
At the head of this recruiting class is a group of elite high school prospects that includes dominant forwards and sharp-shooting guards. These players bring a level of excitement to Duke that has not been seen in years, and the depth of talent promises to make the team a nightmare for opponents. Many of these incoming freshmen are expected to make immediate impacts, and their presence gives Duke a strong chance to contend for both ACC and national titles.
Coaching Under Jon Scheyer
Jon Scheyer’s leadership has also played a pivotal role in Duke’s standing as the favorite for 2026. Having taken over for legendary coach Mike Krzyzewski, Scheyer is now entering his third year at the helm, and he has already proven that he is more than capable of continuing Duke’s storied tradition. His recruiting efforts, which have been stellar, are matched by his ability to develop players and adapt to the ever-changing landscape of college basketball.
Scheyer’s strategic mindset and emphasis on versatility on both ends of the floor has allowed Duke to play an exciting brand of basketball. While Coach K’s legacy looms large, Scheyer’s ability to bring new elements to the program while maintaining the Blue Devils’ winning culture is an exciting prospect for fans. With his leadership, the Blue Devils are poised for greatness, and his development of young talent will undoubtedly play a major role in their success.
Returning Talent
While the 2026 recruiting class steals much of the spotlight, Duke’s returnees from the previous season are also a major reason for their position as favorites. The Blue Devils have a number of key players returning, particularly those who have developed under Scheyer’s system. The combination of experienced upperclassmen and a talented influx of freshmen creates a well-rounded and balanced squad that is capable of both short-term and long-term success.
Several key players, including potential NBA draft prospects, are expected to step up as leaders and help guide the team throughout the season. The mix of seasoned veterans and highly touted newcomers provides the depth and balance needed for a successful championship run.
National Championship Contender
When looking at the landscape of college basketball, it’s clear that Duke is positioned to make a deep run in the 2026 NCAA tournament. The Blue Devils’ blend of talent, coaching, and experience gives them a unique edge over other top teams. As the season progresses, it will be exciting to see how the team develops and whether they can live up to their billing as the betting favorite.
In the ever-competitive ACC and on the national stage, Duke’s combination of rising stars, experienced leadership, and tactical brilliance under Jon Scheyer has solidified the Blue Devils as the team to watch in the 2026 college basketball season. If everything falls into place, Duke could very well find themselves hoisting another national championship banner, continuing their legacy as one of college basketball’s premier programs.
