It’s not just the new faces. It’s not just the returning firepower. It’s how this team is practicing — and everyone’s noticing. According to sources close to the program, there’s been one major shift that’s setting the tone for the offseason: the pace. And not just physically — mentally, too.
This summer, Duke’s practices have been relentless. Fast breaks don’t stop. Reps don’t slow down. Film sessions are followed by live-action drills that mimic in-game chaos. Players aren’t being coached softly into comfort — they’re being thrown into fire. And those who can’t adjust? They’re being left behind.
> “There’s no pacing themselves,” one insider said. “It’s all gas, no brakes.”
That kind of environment is already creating separation. Players who can process quickly, compete under pressure, and bring energy every possession are thriving. And it starts with the veterans.
Caleb Foster, who averaged 4.9 points per game and logged important NCAA Tournament minutes last season, looks like a natural in this new system. His command of the floor and quick decision-making are allowing him to stand out in up-tempo drills. Meanwhile, Isaiah Evans — the former five-star with big expectations — is showing real growth. Sources say he’s playing with a new level of confidence, attacking every possession like he has something to prove.
Maliq Brown, the defensive standout who transferred in and averaged 1.3 steals per game, is anchoring the group with intensity. He’s been described as a vocal leader in practice — someone pushing teammates to defend harder and rotate faster. His presence on the floor adds an edge that’s tough to teach.
Even returning freshmen are stepping up. Patrick Ngongba II, who appeared in 30 games last season, is turning heads with his development, particularly in late-game simulation drills. Darren Harris, who quietly contributed during Duke’s tournament run (including a career-high 7 points in one game), is finally finding rhythm in open-floor scenarios.
But the buzz isn’t just about who’s back. It’s about who just arrived.
Duke’s recruiting class is absolutely loaded. Five-stars Cameron Boozer, Dame Sarr, and Nik Khamenia didn’t come to sit. And it shows. All three are competing at a level that’s already pushing veterans. Even the four-stars — Cayden Boozer and Sebastian Wilkins — are fighting hard in every drill, refusing to get buried on the depth chart.
> “This isn’t a rotation built on potential,” one coach said. “It’s being earned — daily — through pace, effort, and accountability.”
That message is loud and clear: nothing is guaranteed.
Every drill is a test. Every scrimmage is a proving ground. And that urgency is giving Duke a major edge this offseason. Because while most teams spend summer easing into systems, Duke is simulating March-level chaos — and building habits that last.
The bottom line? This team isn’t just more talented than last year. They’re more locked in. More competitive. More dangerous.
