The Duke Blue Devils men’s basketball team is undergoing a significant transformation as they prepare for the 2024–25 season. Head coach Jon Scheyer is navigating a period of substantial roster turnover, with several key players entering the transfer portal and others declaring for the NBA Draft. Despite these departures, the Blue Devils are poised to reload with a top-tier recruiting class and strategic additions from the transfer portal.
Departures and Transfer Portal Activity
Since the conclusion of the 2023–24 season, Duke has experienced a wave of player departures:
- Jeremy Roach: The senior guard declared for the NBA Draft and entered the transfer portal, concluding his collegiate career.
- Mark Mitchell: The sophomore forward transferred to the University of Missouri, where he has since been named Third-team All-SEC.
- Jaylen Blakes: The junior guard, who played a rotational role, transferred to Stanford University.
- TJ Power: The freshman forward entered the transfer portal after averaging 2.1 points per game in a limited bench role.
- Christian Reeves: The sophomore center entered the transfer portal, seeking increased playing time.
- Jaden Schutt: The freshman guard transferred to another program for more playing opportunities.
- Sean Stewart: The freshman forward, who averaged 2.6 points and 3.2 rebounds per game, entered the transfer portal and later committed to Ohio State University.
These departures have left Duke with five open scholarships for the upcoming season.
Returning Players
Amidst the roster changes, Duke retains three players from the previous season:
- Tyrese Proctor: The junior guard has opted to return for another season, bringing leadership and experience to the backcourt.
- Caleb Foster: The sophomore guard is also returning, aiming to build upon his previous season’s performance.
- Stanley Borden: The senior walk-on has eligibility remaining and will provide depth to the roster.
These returnees will play pivotal roles in maintaining continuity and leadership within the team.
Incoming Talent
Duke’s coaching staff is actively addressing the roster gaps through strategic additions:
- Maliq Brown: The 6-foot-8 forward transferred from Syracuse, where he averaged 9.5 points and 7.2 rebounds per game. Brown is known for his defensive prowess and will bolster Duke’s frontcourt.
- Cooper Flagg: The nation’s No. 1-ranked recruit, Flagg is a versatile forward expected to make an immediate impact.
- Khaman Maluach: A projected NBA Draft lottery pick, Maluach is a dynamic guard who will strengthen Duke’s backcourt.
- Isaiah Evans: A top-10 recruit, Evans brings scoring ability and athleticism to the wing position.
- Kon Kneuppel: Ranked No. 9 nationally, Kneuppel is a sharpshooter who will add depth to the perimeter game.
- Patrick Ngongba II: A four-star recruit, Ngongba is a physical presence in the paint who will contribute to the frontcourt rotation.
This incoming class is considered one of the most talented in recent memory, positioning Duke for success in the upcoming season.
Coaching Outlook
Head coach Jon Scheyer faces the challenge of integrating new talent while maintaining the program’s high standards. The departures have created opportunities for younger players to step into significant roles, and the coaching staff is focused on developing chemistry and cohesion among the team.
As Duke prepares for the 2024–25 season, the combination of returning players, strategic transfers, and a stellar recruiting class provides a foundation for continued excellence. While the roster changes present challenges, they also offer opportunities for growth and success on the court.
