Something is brewing in Durham—and it’s not just another preseason hype cycle. The 2025 Duke Blue Devils are going through a summer transformation that has fans, analysts, and even rival programs taking notice. Jon Scheyer isn’t just preparing a basketball team. He’s shaping a new era of Duke toughness—one practice at a time.
No Days Off: The Blueprint for Greatness
From early morning lifts to late-night shooting drills, the word around Duke’s facilities is simple: grind. And it’s not optional. This summer, the message has been crystal clear—no one is above the work. Veterans, newcomers, and walk-ons alike are earning every minute.
Players are drenched in sweat by the first 20 minutes of practice. Coaches are pushing limits, and nobody is spared. It’s become a proving ground, especially for those looking to break out this season.
Isaiah Evans: Locked In and Leading Loud
After a strong freshman season, Isaiah Evans has returned with a different kind of fire. The sophomore wing has been vocal, intense, and relentless. Teammates say he’s become the emotional heartbeat of the summer squad. His shot is sharper, his defense more aggressive, and his leadership undeniable.
“He’s practicing like he’s got something to prove—even though he already proved a lot last year,” said one team insider.
Caleb Foster: The Floor General Emerges
Junior guard Caleb Foster looks every bit the veteran this summer. Whether he’s calling out plays, running pick-and-rolls, or locking down on defense, Foster is the engine powering this team in practice. His physical transformation is also turning heads—he’s stronger, more explosive, and more confident.
Scheyer’s system thrives on smart, dynamic guards—and Foster is stepping into that role with full control.
Maliq Brown: The Underrated Monster
Maliq Brown, the senior transfer forward, may be the most underrated addition to the team. Known for his grit, rebounding, and inside presence, Brown has brought a grown-man mentality to practices. He’s not afraid to mix it up in the paint—and he’s already earning a reputation for making teammates tougher by simply competing with him every day.
“He doesn’t take plays off. He doesn’t take water breaks like the rest of us,” joked a teammate. “He’s built for this.”
Jon Scheyer’s Standard: Relentless Culture
Behind every sprint, every dive for a loose ball, and every blistering practice session is Jon Scheyer’s vision. After back-to-back NCAA Tournament runs, Scheyer knows the next step for Duke isn’t just about talent—it’s about identity.
“We’re not handing out anything,” Scheyer told reporters. “We’re building it brick by brick. The sweat, the blood, the standard—it all matters.”
This summer isn’t just preparation—it’s transformation.
Eyes on the Mission
While the rest of college basketball debates preseason rankings, the Blue Devils are too busy grinding to care. Their focus is internal. Their practices are intense. And their belief is growing.
Because this Duke team doesn’t want to be good. They want to dominate—physically, mentally, and collectively.
And as summer rolls on, one thing is clear:
They’re putting in the sweat. They’re bleeding for the jersey. And they’re making no excuses.
This grind is real. And it might just be the foundation for something special in Durham this season.
