“It’s Harder to Go Through Those Journeys Now”: Jon Scheyer on Tyrese Proctor’s Career
As Duke Blue Devils head coach Jon Scheyer looks back on Tyrese Proctor’s journey with the team, he offers a perspective that resonates deeply with the challenges faced by young athletes today. Proctor, who joined Duke as a freshman in 2022, has been through his own share of struggles and triumphs during his early college basketball career. As a player who hails from Australia, Proctor’s path to Duke was uniquely different from most of his American counterparts. Still, his experience offers a window into the growing pressures and complexities of college basketball in the modern era.
In a recent interview, Jon Scheyer reflected on the challenges Proctor faced and how the landscape of college basketball has evolved, making it even harder for players to find their rhythm early in their careers. “It’s harder to go through those journeys now,” Scheyer said, a statement that encapsulates both the unique nature of Proctor’s experience and the broader challenges facing young athletes in an increasingly fast-paced and scrutinized environment.
Proctor’s Early Struggles and Growth
Tyrese Proctor’s journey to Duke wasn’t without its obstacles. Hailing from Australia, Proctor came into the Duke program with a slightly different background than most college players, having played in the Australian National Basketball League (NBL) before making the transition to college basketball. The NBL experience, while valuable, did not automatically prepare him for the intense scrutiny, media attention, and heightened competition in the NCAA.
As a freshman, Proctor faced the usual learning curve: adapting to the speed of the game, learning Coach Scheyer’s system, and finding his place among some of the top young talents in the country. For many players, especially those coming from overseas, the initial adjustment can be challenging, and Proctor was no exception. He had to grapple with finding consistency in his performances, particularly as the team navigated the pressures of competing in the highly competitive ACC and NCAA tournament play.
What set Proctor apart was his resilience. Despite these early struggles, he showed flashes of brilliance — his vision, court awareness, and ability to score when needed demonstrated that he had the tools to become one of the top players in the country. By the end of his freshman season, Proctor had found his groove, earning praise for his growth and his ability to contribute in multiple ways for Duke.
Scheyer’s Perspective on the Modern Journey
For Jon Scheyer, who spent years playing for Coach Mike Krzyzewski before taking over as Duke’s head coach, the evolution of college basketball has been evident. “It’s harder to go through those journeys now,” he emphasized, noting the increasing demands on players from social media, NIL deals, and the expectations that come with the intense spotlight on Duke basketball.
When Scheyer played at Duke, there was still significant pressure to perform, but the landscape of college sports has changed dramatically in the years since. Today, players like Proctor are not just dealing with the physical demands of college basketball but also the mental and emotional strain of being constantly in the public eye. With the rise of social media, the 24/7 news cycle, and the pressures of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals, young athletes are under a microscope in ways that Scheyer’s generation didn’t experience.
Scheyer, who has known both the highs and lows of college basketball, understands the added layers of complexity. He emphasizes the importance of mental toughness and the support system needed to succeed at this level. His leadership as a coach is about more than just drawing up plays; it’s about guiding his players through these evolving pressures and helping them grow as both basketball players and individuals.
Looking Ahead: Proctor’s Future at Duke
As Tyrese Proctor continues his career at Duke, he has shown a promising trajectory. Under Scheyer’s guidance, Proctor has developed into a key player for the Blue Devils, showcasing his skills as both a scorer and a playmaker. His growth throughout his freshman year was a testament to his hard work, adaptability, and determination — qualities that will continue to serve him as he looks toward his sophomore year and beyond.
For Scheyer, Proctor’s journey is a reflection of the larger challenges that today’s athletes face. The path to success may be more difficult, but with the right mindset, support, and coaching, players like Proctor can overcome these hurdles and achieve great things. As Duke’s head coach, Scheyer remains committed to helping his players navigate this ever-changing landscape, ensuring they have the tools to succeed both on the court and in life.
Jon Scheyer’s thoughts on Tyrese Proctor’s career offer an insightful look into the evolving world of college basketball and the unique challenges that young athletes face today. While Proctor’s journey has been filled with obstacles, his resilience and determination are shaping him into a player who could have a lasting impact on Duke basketball — and the broader landscape of college sports.
