Durham is heating up this summer — and not just from the Carolina sun. Inside Duke’s practice facility, something special is happening. After a jaw-dropping series of summer workouts, fans, analysts, and even former players are asking the unthinkable:
Did Jon Scheyer just put together a more talented group than some of Coach K’s best classes?
Freshman Firepower: Boozer, Sarr, Khamenia & Wilkins Are the Real Deal
From the moment practice started, Cameron Boozer looked every bit the No. 1 recruit in the nation. The 6’9” forward was dominating in every drill — burying midrange jumpers, running the floor like a wing, and defending with a level of intensity that had assistant coaches clapping him up. His twin brother, Cayden Boozer, isn’t far behind, orchestrating the offense with poise and court vision beyond his years.
Then there’s Nikolas Khamenia, the versatile forward out of California. He’s already being called the “glue guy with star upside,” and his ability to switch onto guards defensively and stretch the floor offensively is drawing rave reviews. Dame Sarr, the explosive guard from Europe, is pure energy — fearless in attacking the rim and surprisingly composed in half-court sets. Sebastian Wilkins, long and athletic, has shown flashes of brilliance on the defensive end with high-flying blocks and tough rebounds.
This isn’t your typical freshman class. They look like pros — and they’re playing like it.
Returnees Stepping Into Bigger Roles
But what’s elevating this summer even more is how Duke’s returning players are embracing the competition. Isaiah Evans, last year’s highly-touted freshman, has come back stronger and more confident, splashing threes from deep and jawing in scrimmages like a true vet.
Caleb Foster, after a year of development, looks poised to take the reins in the backcourt. He’s stronger, quicker, and showing better decision-making. Maliq Brown, the rugged forward transfer from Virginia, is bringing toughness in the paint, diving for loose balls and setting bruising screens. And Patrick Ngongba II, finally healthy, is looking like the rim protector and lob threat Duke fans were hoping for last season.
Together, this group has the look of a title contender — and it’s only July.
Fans Are Talking — Loudly
The reactions online say it all:
> “Scheyer might’ve out-recruited Coach K. I said it.”
“This team is a perfect mix of vets and future pros. No one wants smoke with Duke this year.”
“This class is crazy… and the returnees are locked in. Dangerous.”
What It Means for the Blue Devils
Jon Scheyer is doing more than following in Coach K’s footsteps — he’s forging his own path. This summer’s practices are showing that he’s not just landing top recruits… he’s developing them fast, and blending them with returnees who are hungry to win.
There’s still a season to play. But if this group plays the way they’re practicing? Duke might not just be back — they might be better than ever.
