The message coming out of Duke’s summer practices is crystal clear: effort is non-negotiable. Head coach Jon Scheyer has challenged his squad with a simple, powerful mantra — “Outwork EVERYBODY.” And from what’s happening inside the gym, it’s clear: the Blue Devils are listening.
This isn’t your typical offseason. It’s a culture shift.
“Every Drill Is a Test of Who Wants It More”
Scheyer’s been vocal, direct, and demanding from Day 1 this summer. Practices are high-speed, physical, and competitive — and that’s exactly how he wants it.
> “The effort standard is higher than it’s ever been,” said sophomore wing Isaiah Evans. “It doesn’t matter if it’s a layup line or a scrimmage — Coach is watching how hard you go.”
Whether it’s sprinting back on defense, diving for loose balls, or winning rebounding battles, every rep matters. Coaches have taken note. So have the players.
A Roster Buying Into the Grind
This isn’t a team waiting for the season to flip the switch. They’re already competing like it’s March.
Caleb Foster, now an upperclassman, has emerged as a vocal leader, directing traffic and setting the tone in transition. Maliq Brown, the rugged senior forward, is anchoring the defense with his physicality and communication. And Patrick Ngongba II? He’s quietly dominating the paint — blocking shots, altering drives, and showing improved footwork and conditioning.
Freshmen like Cameron Boozer, Nikolas Khamenia, and Dame Sarr are already catching on, embracing the idea that talent alone isn’t enough at this level.
> “Coach told us the first day: talent walks in the door — toughness stays,” said Khamenia. “That stuck with all of us.”
Real Practices, Real Accountability
Summer sessions aren’t for show. Scheyer has instituted a “Winners Board” — a running tally of who wins each day’s drills, scrimmages, and effort metrics. It’s created a competitive fire that even the youngest players are responding to.
> “Nobody wants to be last,” said Darren Harris. “You can’t coast here. If you don’t bring it, you’re getting exposed.”
Cameron Sheffield and Spencer Hubbard have also emerged as energy leaders — making the most of every opportunity, even in reserve roles. The message from Scheyer is clear: “Earn your minutes now.”
The Fans Can Feel It
Clips from closed practices have begun surfacing — defensive intensity, vocal communication, teammates pulling each other up off the floor. It’s gritty. It’s hungry. It’s Duke basketball, recharged.
Summer isn’t about rankings or predictions. It’s about foundation. And right now, that foundation is being poured with sweat.
> “We’re not waiting to get tough in February,” said Scheyer. “We’re building it now — every day, every rep.”
Outwork Everybody — The Duke Way
As the season inches closer, this team isn’t focused on hype. They’re focused on work. Because that’s the Scheyer standard.
And if summer is any indicator, this Duke squad might not just be better — they might be the most battle-ready team in the country.
