Every summer, there’s always one player who climbs the ladder. Not because the media says so. Not because the rankings demand it. But because of what happens in the gym — behind closed doors, when nobody’s watching. That’s where roles get earned. That’s where rotations take shape.
And right now in Durham, the name everyone’s talking about is Dame Sarr.
From day one of summer practice, the 6-foot-6 five-star guard has looked like a man on a mission. Coaches expected him to contribute. They did not expect him to take over.
He’s scoring at all three levels. He’s defending with intensity. He’s making the right reads, moving with confidence, and showing veteran poise in every drill and scrimmage. One coach reportedly said, “It’s not just that he’s talented — it’s that he’s always in control. That’s rare for a freshman.”
The rotation in Duke’s backcourt is supposed to be wide open. But Sarr isn’t just asking for minutes. He’s forcing the conversation. Right now, he’s playing too well to ignore — and honestly, too well to sit.
What makes it even more impressive is the class he’s shining in.
This year’s Duke freshman group is stacked. Cameron Boozer, the top-ranked recruit in the country, already looks like a future NBA lottery pick. His size, footwork, and touch around the rim are already dominating early scrimmages. His twin brother, Cayden Boozer, has come in with less hype but is quickly proving himself as a reliable, tough-minded guard who can steady the offense when things break down.
Nik Khamenia, a five-star with USA Basketball experience, has been a Swiss Army knife. He’s rebounding, switching on defense, and hitting shots — exactly what you’d want in a modern wing. Then there’s Sebastian Wilkins, who reclassified into the 2025 class and is showing the physical tools to become a major factor in the frontcourt rotation.
And yet… even among all that talent, it’s Dame Sarr who’s creating the most buzz.
Still, don’t forget about the returnees — because Duke brings back some important pieces, too.
Isaiah Evans, the dynamic sophomore wing, looks like he’s taken the next step. After averaging 6.8 points per game as a freshman — including a breakout game against Auburn — Evans is shooting the ball confidently and defending with more intensity.
Maliq Brown, the senior forward and defensive stopper, continues to be a problem for opposing offenses. He averaged 1.3 steals per game last season and is still making life difficult for ball-handlers in practice.
Patrick Ngongba II is also back. The sophomore center played in 30 games last year and is showing improved footwork and strength in the post. He looks more confident, more vocal, and more ready to take on a bigger role.
Then there’s Darren Harris, who only saw limited time last season but has quietly become one of Duke’s most consistent shooters in summer workouts. Coaches say he’s playing faster and with more purpose — and his floor-spacing might be critical with this new-look roster.
All of this talent. All of these options. So how in the world is Dame Sarr still rising above it?
Simple. He’s just that good.
Jon Scheyer and his staff now find themselves facing the kind of problem every coach wants — too many talented players and not enough minutes. But what Dame Sarr is doing this summer can’t be ignored. He’s playing with the polish of a junior and the hunger of a freshman fighting for his shot.
If this continues, Duke’s rotation could look a lot different than expected. Roles will shift. Lineups will change. And the team’s identity could very well form around a player most thought would be eased in slowly.
But Dame Sarr isn’t waiting for permission.
He’s taking what’s his.
And if his current trajectory holds, the Blue Devils might have found their next star — months ahead of schedule.
