When summer practice began, Duke’s depth chart felt mostly set. Returners knew their roles, and the incoming class was expected to develop behind them. But then Dame Sarr showed up.
And now? Nothing’s safe.
Sources close to the program say Sarr has been one of the most consistent standouts in early workouts—flashing elite instincts, toughness, and game-ready confidence. Coaches have praised his ability to control pace, defend his position, and make smart decisions under pressure. More importantly? He’s outplaying expectations.
“He’s been a problem for the upperclassmen,” said one person inside the gym. “They didn’t expect him to be this good, this fast. And now he’s in every lineup combo we’re testing.”
It’s not just about stats or highlight moments. It’s the total package—poise, effort, and a maturity well beyond his years. The kind of presence that makes coaches rethink everything they penciled in back in April.
There’s real buzz that Scheyer might have no choice but to elevate Sarr now, not later. That could mean reduced minutes for a veteran. It could mean a shake-up in the backcourt rotation. And it could change the whole tempo and identity of this Duke team.
One thing’s clear: Dame Sarr didn’t come to wait. He came to compete.
And he’s already forcing Jon Scheyer to make one of the most important decisions of the summer.
