The Duke basketball program is poised to lose most of its backcourt pieces from the 2024-25 season, with Sion James out of eligibility and Tyrese Proctor likely headed to the NBA Draft. Both Caleb Foster and Isaiah Evans have intriguing decisions to make regarding the transfer portal or returning to Duke, with Evans also having a chance to be drafted if he declares for the 2025 NBA Draft.
New Opportunity in the Backcourt
In light of these potential departures, Jon Scheyer is exploring new options to bolster the team’s backcourt. One potential target is top-35 prospect Acaden Lewis, a four-star guard who recently decommitted from Kentucky. Lewis had Duke in his final three schools, ultimately choosing Kentucky over the Blue Devils and UConn.
Lewis’ Interest in Duke
Despite choosing Kentucky, Lewis’ interest in Duke remains, with reports suggesting that the Blue Devils, UConn, and North Carolina all feel they have a shot to land him. Lewis’ visit to Durham before committing to Kentucky and having Duke in his final three schools are promising signs that Scheyer might be able to snag a top guard late in the recruiting process.
Potential Starting Backcourt
If Duke were to land Lewis, the Blue Devils’ starting backcourt would likely feature two freshmen in Lewis and Cayden Boozer, a four-star point guard committed to Duke. However, Lewis’ decision will likely depend on which players return to the program and which leave.
Competing with Top Programs
The Duke program is currently in the running for two top uncommitted prospects in the class of 2025, including five-star Nate Ament, who has Duke in his final five schools. With Ament and Lewis in the mix, the Blue Devils are positioning themselves to make a strong push in the recruiting landscape.
