As the NCAA unveils a fresh batch of rule changes for the 2025–2026 college basketball season, Duke head coach Jon Scheyer isn’t staying quiet. The Blue Devils’ leader, heading into his fourth season at the helm, had strong words about the impact these updates could have—not just on Duke, but on the entire landscape of college basketball.
“It’s a game-changer, no question,” Scheyer told reporters during a recent offseason media availability. “We’re going to see a faster game, different strategies, and a real test for coaching staffs to adapt quickly.”
Among the most talked-about changes:
Widened lane and deeper 3-point line, aiming to mirror international standards.
Shot clock reset to 14 seconds on offensive rebounds, designed to speed up possessions.
New transfer portal guidelines, limiting mid-season transfers and tightening eligibility criteria.
Expanded coach’s challenge rule, allowing more in-game video reviews for critical calls.
Scheyer expressed mixed feelings about the adjustments. While he praised efforts to modernize the college game, he also raised concerns about how these rapid changes could affect player development and team chemistry.
“Players now have to think and react quicker. The margin for error is smaller, especially for young teams like ours,” he said. “You’re asking freshmen to adapt to rules they’ve never played under—and do it in real time, under bright lights.”
As one of the youngest coaches in the Power Five, Scheyer emphasized the importance of staying flexible and forward-thinking. He also acknowledged that recruiting may now shift toward players with experience in FIBA-style systems or more mature decision-making skills.
“We’ll be ready. Duke has always adapted and led,” he said. “But make no mistake—this season’s going to separate the prepared from the unprepared.”
With summer workouts set to begin soon, all eyes are on how elite programs like Duke will evolve in response. One thing’s clear: the 2025–2026 season won’t look like anything fans have seen before.
