Cameron Indoor Stadium has seen plenty of unforgettable moments — but Saturday night’s might go down as one of the most spine-tingling of Jon Scheyer’s young coaching career.
After Duke’s commanding win over Western Carolina, the final buzzer didn’t mark the end of the night — not for the fans, and definitely not for the players. As the team made its way toward midcourt, a powerful chant began to echo through the building.
“This is Duke! This is Duke!”
It started with the student section, but within seconds, it spread to every corner of Cameron. The walls seemed to vibrate, and for a brief moment, it felt like the entire arena — from freshmen in the bleachers to alumni in the rafters — was one voice.
Jon Scheyer turned toward the crowd, smiling in disbelief. The 37-year-old coach has been part of plenty of emotional moments inside Cameron as both a player and coach, but this one hit differently.
“This place gives you chills,” Scheyer said afterward. “When the fans show that kind of love, that kind of energy, it reminds you why Duke basketball is so special.”
The Blue Devils had every reason to celebrate. The win capped off another dominant performance in a non-conference slate that’s quickly proving this team has the balance, maturity, and firepower to compete with anyone in the nation. But the connection between the players and the fans — that electric, almost spiritual bond — was the real story.
As the players waved to the crowd, freshman standouts Isaiah Evans and Dame Sarr stopped for a moment, soaking it all in. Veterans like Jeremy Roach and Tyrese Foster smiled as the chants grew louder. Everyone — players, coaches, fans — seemed to understand this was bigger than just another early-season win.
Cameron Indoor has always been known for its energy, but on this night, something deeper was in the air — a reminder that Duke basketball isn’t just a program. It’s a family.
And when that family chants in unison, it can send goosebumps through even the toughest competitor.
