The Duke Blue Devils are not easing into the 2025-26 season. Head coach Jon Scheyer has assembled one of the toughest non-conference schedules in the nation, ensuring his squad is battle-tested for March. Here’s a breakdown of the marquee matchups on Duke’s calendar:
November 4: Duke vs. Texas (Spectrum Center, Charlotte, NC)
The season tips off with a heavyweight clash against Texas. The Longhorns, led by new head coach Sean Miller, bring in an elite transfer class including Lassina Traore and Dailyn Swain (Xavier), Simeon Wilcher (St. John’s), Camden Heide (Purdue), and Matas Vokietaitis (FAU). Returning stars like Tramon Mark, Jordan Pope, and Chendall Weaver add depth to a squad ranked No. 24 in ESPN’s early rankings.
November 11: Duke at Army (Christl Arena, West Point, NY)
Duke’s lone “buy game” comes on the road against Army, which went 17-16 last season and won its first postseason game since 1970. The Black Knights return top scorers Jalen Rucker, Josh Scovens, and Ryan Curry.
November 18: Duke vs. Kansas (Champions Classic, Madison Square Garden)
A perennial powerhouse matchup, Duke will battle Kansas in the State Farm Champions Classic. The Jayhawks, ranked No. 15 by ESPN, welcome top recruit Darryn Peterson and bring back Flory Bidunga. Transfers Tre White (Illinois), Jayden Dawson (Loyola Chicago), and Melvin Council (St. Bonaventure) add to the depth, along with a healthy Elmarko Jackson.
November 27: Duke vs. Arkansas (United Center, Chicago, IL)
Jon Scheyer’s squad will face John Calipari’s Arkansas team in a Thanksgiving showdown. After a surprise Sweet 16 run, Arkansas brings back DJ Wagner, Trevon Brazile, and Billy Richmond III. The Razorbacks also boast the No. 5 incoming freshman class led by five-stars Darius Acuff Jr. and Meleek Thomas. ESPN has Arkansas ranked No. 7.
December: Duke at Michigan State (East Lansing, MI)
A road trip to face a veteran Michigan State team awaits in December. The Spartans, fresh off an Elite Eight appearance, are loaded with experience and add Cam Ward, Jordan Scott, Kaleb Glenn, and Trey Fort. Despite some key departures, ESPN ranks MSU at No. 18.
February: Duke vs. Michigan (Capital One Arena, Washington, D.C.)
In a potential top-five showdown, Duke will take on Michigan in February. Second-year coach Dusty May has built a powerhouse through the transfer portal, landing top overall transfer Yaxel Lendeborg, along with Tre Donaldson, Aday Mara, Morez Johnson, and Elliot Cadeau. Nimari Burnett and Will Tschetter return to provide continuity. ESPN ranks the Wolverines No. 5 nationally.
A Tough Path to March
With multiple Top 25 opponents and few breathers, Duke’s non-conference schedule is as competitive as it gets. Jon Scheyer is clearly preparing his team for a deep tournament run by testing them early and often.
