As the Duke Blue Devils prepare for the 2025-26 men’s basketball season, the team is poised to showcase a blend of experienced players and highly touted newcomers. This composition aims to maintain Duke’s prominence in collegiate basketball, with a roster featuring seasoned veterans, impactful transfers, and promising freshmen.
Projected Starters
At the forefront is Khaman Maluach, a 7-foot-2 center from South Sudan. Entering his sophomore year, Maluach made significant strides during his freshman season, earning a spot on the ACC All-Freshman Team. His international experience, including participation in the FIBA World Cup with the South Sudan national team, has honed his skills and maturity on the court. Maluach’s defensive presence and rebounding prowess are expected to anchor Duke’s interior defense.
Joining Maluach in the frontcourt is Nikolas Khamenia, a 6-foot-8 power forward from Los Angeles. Khamenia committed to Duke over offers from UCLA and Gonzaga, bringing versatility and a high basketball IQ to the team. His ability to stretch the floor with perimeter shooting and contribute defensively makes him a valuable asset in Duke’s system.
On the wing, Kon Knueppel, a 6-foot-7 sophomore from Milwaukee, is anticipated to start at the small forward position. Knueppel had a standout freshman season, earning ACC tournament MVP honors and a spot on the ACC All-Freshman Team. His scoring ability, combined with his size and defensive capabilities, positions him as a key contributor on both ends of the floor.
In the backcourt, Cayden Boozer, a 6-foot-4 freshman point guard from Florida, is projected to take the reins as the floor general. As a McDonald’s All-American and one of the top players in the 2025 class, Boozer’s playmaking skills and leadership are expected to have an immediate impact. His commitment to Duke, alongside his twin brother Cameron, underscores the program’s ability to attract top-tier talent.
Rounding out the starting lineup is Shelton Henderson, a 6-foot-6 freshman shooting guard from Texas. Henderson chose Duke over Texas and Louisville, citing it as his dream school. His physicality and scoring ability, evidenced by his 22 points per game average during his junior year of high school, make him a formidable presence on the perimeter.
Key Reserves
Providing depth in the frontcourt is Isaiah Evans, a 6-foot-6 sophomore forward. Evans, a two-time North Carolina Mr. Basketball honoree, offers versatility and scoring off the bench. His confident shooting and ability to play multiple positions make him a valuable sixth man.
Darren Harris, a 6-foot-5 sophomore guard, is another key reserve known for his sharpshooting from beyond the arc. Harris’s ability to come off the bench and provide instant offense will be crucial in tight game situations.
Patrick Ngongba II, a 6-foot-11 sophomore center, adds depth behind Maluach. Ngongba’s physical play and rebounding skills provide Duke with a reliable option in the paint, ensuring that the team maintains a strong interior presence throughout the game.
Rising Talent
The Blue Devils’ roster also features promising freshmen who may see increased roles as the season progresses. Cameron Boozer, a 6-foot-9 power forward and twin brother of Cayden, brings a high motor and tenacity to the frontcourt. His rebounding and defensive skills complement his brother’s playmaking abilities, potentially leading to dynamic on-court chemistry.
Toby Fournier, a 6-foot-2 forward from Canada, is another freshman to watch. Fournier’s athleticism and versatility, honed through a diverse athletic background including soccer and gymnastics, make her a unique asset. Her participation in the Nike Hoop Summit and recognition as ACC Freshman of the Year highlight her potential impact.
As the 2025-26 season approaches, the Duke Blue Devils’ roster reflects a strategic blend of experience and youth. The projected starters bring a combination of size, skill, and versatility, while the key reserves and rising talents provide depth and potential for growth. Under the guidance of the coaching staff, this roster is well-positioned to compete at the highest levels of collegiate basketball, with aspirations of making a deep run in the NCAA tournament.