You won’t hear much from Duke’s coaches right now — and that silence is saying everything.
While other top programs are hyping up workouts and building narratives around summer stars, Jon Scheyer and his staff are running things behind closed doors. No lineup promises. No interviews hinting at rotations. Just gritty, high-level practice sessions with one clear message:
If you want minutes, you’re going to have to take them.
The Rotation Everyone Expected? It’s Already Shifting
Coming into summer workouts, many assumed veterans like Caleb Foster and returning contributors would anchor the starting five. But then practice started — and things got interesting.
Cameron Boozer, the prized freshman and top-rated recruit, isn’t playing like a freshman. He’s commanding the floor in ways that are forcing coaches to reconsider the frontcourt balance. And it’s not just his scoring — it’s his presence.
“I don’t care what grade he’s in,” one practice insider said. “You don’t keep that kind of talent off the floor.”
“They’re Not Waiting Their Turn”
It’s not just Boozer. Nikolas Khamenia has emerged as a polished, confident wing who plays older than his age. He’s spacing the floor, defending multiple positions, and looks more ready than anyone anticipated.
Sebastian Wilkins? Quietly becoming one of the most disruptive defenders on the roster. His motor hasn’t gone unnoticed.
And then there’s Dame Sarr, the Italian standout. Coaches have been cautious with expectations due to the transition from European basketball, but Sarr has adapted fast. His decision-making and poise in the open floor are giving the staff another backcourt weapon.
Even Isaiah Evans, long thought of as more of a long-term project, is knocking down shots and playing like someone who expects to be in the rotation — not watching from the bench.
Coaches Aren’t Saying It — But the Message Is Clear
No official depth chart has been released. No one’s declared a starter. But the internal competition is very real.
Lineups are being mixed daily. Star freshmen are battling established names. And players who were projected to be “development guys” are creating real problems… for opponents and the coaching staff trying to sort out this loaded roster.
The biggest takeaway? There might not be a traditional rotation at all — this Duke team may go deeper than fans have seen in years.
Eyes on November
Duke fans hoping for clarity won’t get it just yet. But if you’ve been following the whispers, watching the subtle social media clips, and hearing the buzz around campus…
You know the deal: Duke’s coaches may be quiet, but this roster isn’t.
And the rotation? Yeah, it just got very, very interesting.
