They didn’t figure it out on Day One. That was expected.
But after several sessions behind closed doors — with the rotation still fluid, roles being tested, and egos quietly battling for position — something finally clicked.
Duke found its identity.
Not from a highlight. Not from a viral moment. But from the intensity that’s been quietly building through each practice. And now? That one big question every Duke fan had — whether this team had the edge, the voice, the physicality — finally has a real answer.
Cameron Boozer has continued to set the tone inside, using his frame like a battering ram in the paint. You’d think the physicality would wear him down — instead, he’s gotten stronger as the practices pile up. It’s clear: he’s not here to wait his turn.
Dame Sarr’s confidence hasn’t dipped for a second. The Italian guard is making things happen on the perimeter — pulling up in transition, talking to veterans like he’s already earned it, and drawing real attention from the coaching staff every time the ball is in his hands.
Caleb Foster — the returner everyone hoped would step into a bigger leadership role — has done just that. He’s louder. Quicker. Sharper. And now, he’s not just holding his spot… he’s lifting others.
Nikolas Khamenia’s motor hasn’t slowed down once. He’s the guy who keeps winning hustle plays. Sebastian Wilkins? Let’s just say when he gets downhill, bodies bounce. And Isaiah Evans has been quietly catching fire — stretching defenses, getting more vocal, and making a real case for major minutes.
So no, it didn’t happen instantly. The early practices were messy. Rotations flipped. Shots missed. But now?
There’s clarity.
That biggest question — whether this group had enough grit to match their talent — just got answered through days of sweat, scrimmages, and internal challenges. And if this is what they look like now?
Duke fans should feel very, very good about what’s coming.
