In a major win for Jon Scheyer and the Duke Blue Devils, former Washington State guard Cedric Coward has announced his commitment to the storied ACC program, turning down a serious push from the Alabama Crimson Tide. The decision sends shockwaves through the college basketball landscape, as Duke continues to reload its roster with top-tier talent and proven performers from the transfer portal.
Coward, a 6-foot-6 wing known for his athleticism, defensive versatility, and developing offensive game, entered the transfer portal following a breakout sophomore season at Washington State. Averaging 11.2 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game while shooting nearly 50% from the field, Coward established himself as one of the most valuable two-way players in the Pac-12. His decision to leave Pullman sparked a fierce recruiting battle between national powers, and now, he’s headed to Durham.
“I just felt like Duke was the best place for me to take the next step,” Coward said in a statement shared on social media. “The tradition, the development, the fans, and Coach Scheyer’s vision for how I fit in—it all just made sense. I’m grateful for my time at Washington State and for everyone who’s supported me, but I’m excited for what’s next.”
What’s next, indeed. Coward’s commitment gives Duke an immediate-impact player who can guard multiple positions, rebound at a high level, and provide slashing and transition scoring. With his size, length, and instincts, Coward figures to slot in seamlessly alongside Duke’s mix of returning veterans and highly ranked recruits. It’s another strong portal win for Scheyer, who has made it a priority to blend elite freshmen with seasoned college talent.
At Washington State, Coward played a key role in helping the Cougars reach the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2008. His impact extended well beyond the stat sheet—he was often tasked with defending the opposing team’s best player, frequently initiating fast breaks, and making hustle plays that energized the team. WSU’s staff praised his work ethic and leadership, and he was a fan favorite thanks to his motor and fearless playing style.
After WSU head coach Kyle Smith left for the Stanford job, Coward became one of several Cougars to explore other options. Within days of entering the portal, he received interest from high-major programs across the country. Alabama, which has been active in the portal as Nate Oats retools his Final Four roster, made a serious push. Sources close to Coward say Alabama pitched him on a prominent role and highlighted the program’s recent NBA pipeline.
But in the end, Duke’s tradition—and Scheyer’s plan for his development—won out.
“Coach Scheyer really showed me how I could grow in their system,” Coward explained. “They believe in me as a two-way player who can make a difference right away, but also someone who can keep getting better. I want to win and keep building my game. Duke is the place to do that.”
This commitment reflects a growing trend: top players in the portal gravitating toward Duke not just for the name on the jersey, but for the increasingly player-friendly structure Scheyer is building. Since taking over from Mike Krzyzewski, Scheyer has balanced the program’s reputation as a one-and-done destination with a modern understanding of roster continuity and veteran presence. Coward’s decision validates that vision.
On the court, Coward gives Duke a dynamic piece that can elevate the team on both ends. Defensively, he brings switchability and toughness. He can guard 1-through-4 effectively, using his lateral quickness and long arms to disrupt passing lanes. Offensively, he’s a slasher who thrives in the open floor, with enough shooting touch to keep defenses honest. While not a volume three-point shooter, Coward improved his shot selection and mechanics significantly over the past year.
His rebounding from the guard position is another asset—his 6.7 boards per game last season were second on the team and often led to immediate transition opportunities.
For Duke, Coward’s arrival comes at a critical time. The Blue Devils are expected to lose multiple players to the NBA Draft, including projected top pick Cooper Flagg, who has not officially declared but is widely expected to enter. Other rotation players may explore professional opportunities or test the transfer waters themselves. Coward’s commitment helps stabilize the roster and gives Duke a known commodity heading into a season with national championship expectations.
It also keeps Duke in step with its blueblood peers, who are increasingly turning to the portal to supplement their rosters. Programs like Kansas, Kentucky, and Arizona have made splash additions this offseason, and Coward’s decision to choose Duke over an elite SEC contender like Alabama is a reminder that the Blue Devils remain at the forefront of the sport’s new recruiting era.
Fans in Durham will quickly learn to appreciate Coward’s game. He plays with an edge, doesn’t shy away from contact, and prides himself on doing the little things—diving for loose balls, rotating on defense, making the extra pass. While he may not always be the leading scorer, his presence is felt in winning plays. That kind of glue guy mentality, combined with athleticism and skill, is the type of player every coach wants on the floor in March.
From a roster construction standpoint, Coward’s versatility gives Duke options. He can start or come off the bench, play as a wing or a small-ball four, and adapt to different lineup configurations. Expect Scheyer to experiment with him in various roles early in the season to maximize his impact.
For Coward, the move is both a challenge and an opportunity. The ACC brings a different level of competition than the Pac-12, especially given the uncertainty surrounding that conference’s future. At Duke, every game is on a national stage, and the expectations are sky-high. But if his performance at Washington State is any indication, he’s ready for the moment.
“It’s a big stage, but I’ve always believed in myself,” Coward said. “I know I still have a lot to prove, and that’s what motivates me. I’m coming in to work, to learn, and to help Duke win.”
His teammates are already welcoming him with open arms, with several current Blue Devils posting supportive messages on social media following the announcement. The early chemistry, both on and off the court, could be crucial as Duke seeks to build a cohesive group capable of making a deep tournament run.
Recruiting experts have praised Duke’s approach in targeting Coward, calling it a “smart and strategic” move. Rather than chasing only big names or offensive stars, the staff went after a player who fills multiple needs and fits the culture they’re trying to maintain. In the era of NIL and constant roster turnover, that kind of fit matters more than ever.
This commitment may also signal more big moves to come. With the transfer portal window still open, and NBA Draft decisions looming, Duke’s roster is likely to see more change in the coming weeks. But with Coward now in the fold, Scheyer has secured a foundational piece.
For Cedric Coward, the path from under-the-radar prospect to Pac-12 standout to Duke Blue Devil is a testament to perseverance and belief. For Duke, it’s another important step in building a championship-caliber team, the kind that honors the legacy of the past while embracing the challenges of the present.
And for college basketball fans, it’s just the latest reminder that the transfer portal has become one of the sport’s most exciting and impactful frontiers.
Blue blood bound, indeed.