The buzz out of Durham feels familiar — eerily reminiscent of 2018, when Zion Williamson, RJ Barrett, and Cam Reddish turned every Duke game into a national event. Fast forward to 2025, and Jon Scheyer’s squad is drawing similar comparisons — not just from fans, but from people inside the building.
The difference? This group might be even deeper.
Isaiah Evans Looks Like a Star in the Making
Last season, Isaiah Evans had flashes. This summer? He’s erupting. The 6’6” sophomore wing has taken a massive leap, blending his smooth shooting with added strength and defensive intensity. Coaches say his confidence is “off the charts” — and he’s playing like he knows it’s his time.
Caleb Foster Is Ready to Run the Show
Junior guard Caleb Foster is turning into the floor general Duke needs. His pace, vision, and ability to control tempo have made him a standout in practice. Foster is vocal, poised, and most importantly — locked in. He’s taken ownership of this team’s identity, and it shows in every possession.
Maliq Brown Might Be the Glue Guy Every Contender Needs
Maliq Brown, the senior transfer from Virginia Tech, has been one of the most consistent forces on the floor this summer. He rebounds, defends multiple positions, and plays with a quiet toughness. Coaches love him. Teammates trust him. Don’t be shocked if he becomes the unsung hero of the season.
Patrick Ngongba II Brings the Physicality
Freshman big man Patrick Ngongba II isn’t playing like a freshman. He’s throwing his weight around in the paint, setting hard screens, and finishing through contact. His motor is nonstop, and he’s already earning praise from Scheyer and the staff for how quickly he’s adapting to Duke’s system.
A Backcourt Battle Worth Watching
While Foster may have the edge right now, don’t ignore the sparks flying in the backcourt. New faces like Kon Kneuppel and Darren Harris are pushing hard in scrimmages, and their shooting is making rotations complicated in the best way. Practices are competitive, physical, and full of fire — just how Scheyer likes it.
Is This the Best Duke Team Since Zion?
On paper, it just might be. In the gym? It’s starting to feel like it. This group has size, skill, experience, and attitude. The blend of returning stars like Evans and Foster, the toughness of veterans like Brown, and the potential of newcomers like Ngongba is giving this team serious momentum before November.
And here’s the best part — they’re not satisfied.
They’re chasing more than wins. They’re chasing greatness.
Can this team live up to the hype? If early signs are any clue, we might be looking at something special unfolding in Durham.
