When Duke landed Dame Sarr, they knew they were getting a gifted scorer with pro-level instincts. What they didn’t expect? That he’d make such a strong case to start — immediately.
Fast forward to summer practices in Durham, and Sarr is doing more than just blending in. He’s dominating stretches of scrimmage play, flashing deep range, high IQ, and a confidence you just can’t teach.
“He doesn’t look like a freshman,” one source close to the team said. “He looks like someone who’s already played in big games.”
That’s great news for Duke fans… but it’s also creating a massive headache for Jon Scheyer.
Because Sarr’s emergence is forcing an uncomfortable question:
Who do you take off the floor?
Veterans like Caleb Foster are already playing with control and polish. Isaiah Evans looks re-energized and confident after withdrawing from the draft. Even freshmen like Cameron Boozer and Darren Harris are drawing rave reviews for their poise and shot-making.
There’s depth. There’s talent. And now, thanks to Sarr, there’s a logjam.
In Scheyer’s words, this is a “good problem.” But managing it won’t be easy. If Sarr continues at this level — and all signs say he will — he’s going to be hard to keep out of the starting lineup.
The risk? You bench a veteran and risk chemistry. You start a freshman, and the pressure piles up. But what if you don’t play the best guy — right now?
One thing is clear: Dame Sarr didn’t come to sit.
And judging by his summer dominance, he might just be the one to force a major shakeup in Durham’s rotation.
