Duke fans woke up to a gift this week — a brand-new practice video from Jon Scheyer’s squad that has quickly become one of the most talked-about clips in college basketball. If the goal was to show off intensity, swagger, and just how much this group loves to compete, mission accomplished.
Scheyer’s Blueprint on Full Display
From the start of the video, you can see Scheyer’s fingerprints all over this team. The drills are fast-paced, physical, and detail-oriented. Senior guard Caleb Foster was leading huddles and calling out coverages, while Isaiah Evans showed off his versatility by locking up on defense and then draining threes in transition.
Forward Maliq Brown, known for his work ethic, set the tone in the paint — diving for loose balls, blocking shots, and even flexing after a tough finish. Sophomore center Patrick Ngongba II looked like a completely different player from last year, flashing improved footwork and finishing ability around the rim.
When Things Got Heated
The most viral moment came when a rebounding drill turned extra competitive, leading to some pushing, shoving, and jawing between teammates. Instead of blowing the whistle to calm things down, Scheyer let them battle it out before stepping in with a grin. That edge, that willingness to go at each other, is exactly what Duke fans have been hoping to see.
Social media reaction was instant — and loud:
“This is not last year’s team. You can feel the chip on their shoulder.”
“Caleb Foster looks like a captain. He’s taking control of this group.”
“Love the fight. Love the energy. This is Duke Basketball.”
Swagger Is Back in Durham
After falling short of a Final Four last season, this video is giving fans hope that Duke is ready to take the next step. The chemistry between veterans and young stars looked natural, and there’s a noticeable swagger to this group — the kind that championship teams tend to have.
Between the leadership of Foster, the defensive grit of Brown, and the emerging star power of Evans and Ngongba II, this Blue Devils roster has the tools to make a deep March run. And judging by the way they’re competing in September, nobody in Durham is shying away from the pressure.
If this practice video is any indication, Duke isn’t just looking to win — they’re looking to dominate.
