As the 2025-2026 NCAA basketball season gets underway, one team has the entire nation buzzing with anticipation: the Duke Blue Devils. After a few years of ups and downs, Coach Jon Scheyer’s squad is primed to take the college basketball world by storm. With a mixture of veteran leadership and electrifying freshmen, the Blue Devils are poised to reclaim their spot at the top of the NCAA.
A New Era Fully Underway
Jon Scheyer, who took over as head coach in 2022 after the legendary Mike Krzyzewski’s retirement, is fully embracing the challenge of rebuilding a Duke team that had long been a dominant force in college basketball. While there have been a few stumbles early in his tenure, the 2025-2026 season marks a turning point. With a mix of experienced players and a top-tier recruiting class, Duke is once again chasing national glory.
The Return of the Stars
The heart of this Duke team is its returning talent. Senior Isaiah Evans, alongside rising stars like Maliq Brown and Patrick Ngongba II, provides the Blue Devils with experienced, versatile players ready to lead. Evans, known for his scoring ability and defensive prowess, is a key piece of the puzzle as he takes on a more prominent role this season.
Maliq Brown and Patrick Ngongba II, both expected to play significant roles in the frontcourt, will add depth and versatility to Duke’s lineup. With returning players like Darren Harris and Mason Gillis, Duke’s experience will be vital as they aim to make a deep run in March Madness.
The New Additions
But it’s not just the veterans who will make waves. Duke’s 2025 recruiting class is filled with top-tier talent. The inclusion of five-star forward Cameron Boozer and his brother, Cayden Boozer, is generating excitement. Cameron, an electrifying forward, has the potential to immediately impact the game, while Cayden adds another layer of talent to Duke’s dynamic roster.
Cedric Coward, a transfer from Washington State, will bring his experience and size to the Blue Devils, further bolstering the team’s depth. The roster also includes rising freshmen like Caleb Foster, Nikolas Khamenia, and potential future stars like Jalen Haralson, Dwayne Aristode Brewster, AJ Dybantsa, Koa Peat Perry, and Will Riley—all targets for Duke’s future success.
The Road to Reigniting the NCAA
With a blend of returning leadership and an influx of talented newcomers, Duke is poised for a deep tournament run. But the road to the title will not be easy. Programs like Kansas, Kentucky, and North Carolina are all vying for championship glory, each with their own powerhouse rosters. However, what sets Duke apart is their unique blend of coaching, leadership, and youthful energy.
Looking Ahead
As the 2025-2026 season progresses, expect a thrilling ride. Fans in Durham and across the country are eager to see if this young and hungry team can return Duke to its rightful place as one of the most dominant forces in college basketball. With Coach Scheyer at the helm and a roster filled with stars, the Blue Devils are ready to reignite the NCAA—and this time, no one will be ready for what’s coming. The 2026 NCAA tournament promises to be a spectacle that fans won’t soon forget.
