Duke basketball’s offseason just got a little brighter.
Freshman wing Isaiah Evans announced via Instagram that he’ll return for his sophomore year, providing a major boost to the Blue Devils’ roster heading into next season. The 6-foot-6 sharpshooter, a former five-star recruit, chose Duke over top programs like Florida State, Arkansas, and Alabama.
In response to the announcement, Duke’s official social media account posted a highlight reel captioned: “yo Slim 👈‼️😈”—a nod to Evans’ nickname and growing hype.
Among the first to comment was Kon Knueppel, Evans’ former teammate and one of Duke’s standout freshmen last season. Knueppel, who recently declared for the 2025 NBA Draft, dropped a quick and enthusiastic reaction: “Heck yeah!”
Knueppel played a pivotal role during his lone season at Duke, averaging 14.4 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game while shooting 47.9% from the field and 40.6% from three. He earned ACC Tournament MVP honors, made the Second-team All-ACC, and was named to the ACC All-Freshman Team.
Evans had a more limited role in his first year, starting just three games and averaging 13.7 minutes per contest. Still, he flashed the potential that made him a top recruit, shooting 43.2% from the field and 41.6% from beyond the arc, and averaging 6.8 points per game.
With Knueppel, Cooper Flagg, and Tyrese Proctor all heading to the NBA, Duke faces a significant shakeup in its backcourt. Evans’ return addresses key needs—particularly perimeter shooting and defensive versatility—that the Blue Devils will sorely miss without Flagg and Knueppel.
As Duke prepares for a roster reset that includes incoming transfers and high-profile freshmen, Evans will be counted on to help anchor the transition and take on a larger role in the upcoming season.
