If you walked into a Duke summer practice expecting to see a clear pecking order, you’d leave confused — in the best way possible.
Because right now? Nobody’s spot is guaranteed.
According to team insiders, this might be Jon Scheyer’s deepest, most balanced roster since taking over — and it’s showing in every scrimmage, every drill, every loose ball.
Veterans like Caleb Foster are playing with poise and command. Isaiah Evans has come back looking leaner, faster, and more aggressive after pulling out of the draft. But it’s not just the returners — the freshmen aren’t backing down at all.
Word is, Cameron Boozer has already had moments that made coaches pause practice just to take it in. Dame Sarr is pushing the pace and shooting with confidence. Darren Harris and others are forcing vets to bring their A-game just to keep up.
Even role players like Maliq Brown and Patrick Ngongba II are showing versatility that could crack the rotation in multiple spots.
What’s the result?
Iron sharpens iron.
Summer practices aren’t walkthroughs in Durham right now — they’re battles. Scheyer is leaning into the competition, letting players earn everything. And according to one staffer, that’s by design:
> “We don’t want anyone getting comfortable. We’re deeper this year. Hungrier, too.”
Fans hoping for an identity? Look no further than the intensity behind closed doors.
Depth isn’t just a luxury — it’s becoming Duke’s biggest weapon.
