Summer practices at Duke are always intense. But this year, one player is separating himself from the pack — and it’s turning heads across Durham.
Insiders close to the program say Isaiah Evans has been unstoppable. The sophomore guard/forward, once considered a promising piece of Duke’s future, is now looking like a player who could lead right now.
“Evans came in this summer with a different mindset,” one source said. “He’s more explosive, more vocal, and he’s dominating both ends.”
Sources from inside the gym say his confidence is off the charts. Whether it’s knocking down deep threes in scrimmage, locking up older guards in drills, or diving on the floor during every possession, Evans is treating each day like March Madness is on the line.
And it’s not just effort — it’s production. Multiple reports suggest that Evans has been the most consistent player in practices, leading drills, setting the tone, and showcasing a far more polished offensive game.
A Message to the ACC?
Head coach Jon Scheyer hasn’t handed anyone guaranteed minutes, but those watching say Evans is forcing the issue. With a stacked group that includes Caleb Foster, Maliq Brown, and highly-touted freshmen like Dame Sarr and Patrick Ngongba II, nothing is being handed out in Durham — it has to be earned.
And that’s exactly what Evans is doing.
“If you didn’t know better, you’d think he was the veteran on this squad,” said one team staffer.
As Duke continues its summer grind, fans are beginning to ask: Is Isaiah Evans the breakout star of the season?
If these practices are any sign, the answer is becoming clear — and the sky really might be the limit.
