At first glance, it looked like a typical offseason run. A few shooting drills, some 5-on-5 scrimmages, and the usual hustle from returners trying to set the tone. But as the summer weeks rolled on inside Cameron Indoor, it became clear — this wasn’t just practice. Jon Scheyer had a plan, and the early signs are turning heads across college basketball.
What’s standing out isn’t just who’s playing — it’s how. Scheyer has quietly introduced a new wrinkle to Duke’s identity: pace with purpose. Ball movement is sharper, transition offense is relentless, and the defensive rotations? Tighter than ever. Coaches and insiders are saying this feels less like July and more like March prep.
A big part of that shift comes from the leadership of Caleb Foster. Entering his junior year, Foster’s decision-making has matured, and he’s embraced a role as the team’s vocal anchor. Meanwhile, Isaiah Evans has taken a noticeable leap. The sophomore wing’s shot selection and defensive presence hint at a breakout season — and it’s no longer just potential. He’s producing every day.
Then there’s the low-key glue guy: Maliq Brown. The veteran forward isn’t flashy, but his versatility is unlocking a new level of lineup flexibility. Small-ball fives, high-post reads, switchable defense — all flowing through Brown’s underrated IQ and physical presence.
And while most eyes are on the returning core, the real story might be how Scheyer is subtly turning these sessions into chess matches. Scrimmages are structured like scenarios: down two, 90 seconds left… or protect a four-point lead with three fouls to give. It’s not just about skills anymore. It’s about decisions — and Duke is getting smarter by the rep.
So no, this isn’t just “summer reps.” It’s a lab. A proving ground. And as one assistant put it: “You can already see the identity forming. Tough. Smart. Unselfish. That’s not something you stumble into — that’s coaching.”
Fans may have tuned out in July, assuming it’s just offseason noise. But those who are watching closely? They’ll tell you: Scheyer’s strategy is showing — and this version of Duke is cooking quietly… but confidently.
