Something shifted in the Duke Blue Devils’ summer practice this week — and everyone in the gym could feel it.
From the first whistle to the final huddle, the Blue Devils showcased the kind of execution, energy, and edge that championship teams are built on.
Caleb Foster ran the point with surgical control, constantly vocal, constantly engaged. His passes hit perfectly timed cuts, and his defensive effort looked like midseason form. On the wings, Isaiah Evans played with a fire we haven’t seen before — talking, barking, defending, and letting his jumper fly without hesitation. Every possession mattered.
Maliq Brown brought physicality in the paint that turned simple rebounding drills into battle zones. His presence alone changed the intensity. Coaches praised his motor repeatedly during live scrimmages.
But it wasn’t just the veterans — the newcomers stepped up too. Freshman guards dove on the floor. Bench players outworked starters. Rotations were crisp. Communication was loud. Everyone was locked in.
One observer said: “That was the best practice I’ve seen from Duke all summer — they looked like a unit that wants to hang banners.”
Head coach Jon Scheyer kept things tight, competitive, and fast-paced — giving just enough room for players to lead, make mistakes, and grow. The message? Be ready now. Roles are earned in July, not just March.
If this level of intensity continues, Duke isn’t just building depth — they’re building an identity.
