You don’t usually hear this much buzz in July. But Duke’s summer practices? They’ve become the talk of Durham — and not just because of who’s playing. It’s how they’re playing.
From the jump, the energy has felt different. The gym’s louder. The drills are faster. The effort? Nonstop. And it starts at the top — with veterans like Maliq Brown, who’s setting the tone defensively and showing younger guys what real leadership looks like. He’s not just here to contribute — he’s here to anchor.
Then there’s Caleb Foster, the junior guard whose floor general skills are sharper than ever. He’s taken command of the offense, barking out sets, attacking off the bounce, and hitting from deep. Every time a defender slips up in practice, Foster makes them pay.
But it’s not just the vets making noise — it’s the newcomers, too.
The Newcomers Aren’t Waiting
Dame Sarr, the highly-touted freshman wing, didn’t come to Durham to wait his turn. He’s already earning respect from older players by showing up in drills with a professional-level pace — smooth footwork, confident shooting, and a surprising feel for spacing. He’s not just playing well for a freshman — he’s playing like someone who expects minutes now.
And then there’s Isaiah Evans — technically a sophomore, but playing like he’s on a mission to make a leap. The 6’6” wing has added size and aggression. He’s attacking the rim with no hesitation and locking in defensively, showing flashes of a two-way weapon Duke didn’t fully tap into last season.
Even Patrick Ngongba II, the freshman big, is making his presence known. He’s battling in the post, contesting shots, and holding his own physically — not easy when you’re matching up with guys like Brown in the paint.
This Is More Than Hype
What’s happening in practice right now? It’s not just competition — it’s culture.
One insider said:
> “They’re not going through the motions. They’re going at each other. And that’s what you want from a group trying to win something real.”
Every player — from projected starters to incoming freshmen — is showing they want a piece of the rotation. There are no off days. No freebies.
And that’s how Duke wants it. This group is clearly deeper, louder, and hungrier than last year.
Why Fans Are Buzzing
Because if this is what summer practice looks like… what happens when the lights come on?
Duke fans expected talent. They always have it.
But this time? It’s the chemistry, the hustle, and the fire that’s getting people excited.
And that’s the kind of mix that doesn’t just win games — it builds something special.
