BREAKING NEWS: Two Five-Star Recruits Isaiah Evans and Caleb Foster Officially Commit to Duke Blue Devils Men’s Basketball
In a monumental development for college basketball and one that could have ripple effects across the NCAA landscape, two of the top five-star prospects in the nation—Isaiah Evans and Caleb Foster—have officially announced their commitments to the Duke Blue Devils men’s basketball program. The announcement confirms what many Blue Devil fans hoped for but did not dare assume until it was official. With this news, Duke has not only solidified its position as a perennial contender for the national title but also sent a strong message to its rivals: the Blue Devils are reloading with elite talent and not looking back.
Isaiah Evans and Caleb Foster, both widely regarded as among the top recruits in their respective classes, made their announcements in a joint video released on social media early Thursday morning. The video, which immediately went viral across Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube, features the two stars sitting on a half-lit court wearing Duke jerseys while declaring their loyalty to one of the most storied programs in college basketball history. The commitment of these two players marks a significant recruiting coup for head coach Jon Scheyer, who continues to demonstrate that the transition from Mike Krzyzewski’s era has not diminished Duke’s gravitational pull for elite talent.
Isaiah Evans, a 6-foot-7 forward from Huntersville, North Carolina, plays with a unique combination of size, agility, and shooting ability that has drawn comparisons to NBA stars like Brandon Ingram and Jayson Tatum—both Duke alumni. Evans is ranked among the top 10 players nationally in the class of 2025 and has been on the radar of scouts and recruiters since his sophomore year. Known for his offensive versatility, Evans can shoot from deep with consistency, create his own shot, and finish at the rim with authority. His wingspan and defensive instincts also make him a threat on the other end of the floor, giving him the tools to become a two-way player at the collegiate and professional levels.
What makes Evans particularly special is his ability to lead. As a junior at North Mecklenburg High School, he averaged 26.4 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game, drawing double teams almost every night while still managing to dominate. His leadership qualities are not just visible on the stat sheet but are also evident in his demeanor—calm under pressure, focused, and team-oriented. Coaches rave about his work ethic and maturity beyond his years, which bodes well for his transition to the high-pressure environment at Duke.
Caleb Foster, meanwhile, is no less of a catch. The 6-foot-5 point guard from Oak Hill Academy in Virginia has long been touted as one of the most complete guards in the country. Ranked among the top 15 players in his class, Foster combines elite court vision with a scoring instinct that makes him a dual threat. His ability to read defenses, orchestrate offensive sets, and break down opponents off the dribble gives him the potential to be the engine of Duke’s offense for years to come.
Foster’s high basketball IQ has drawn praise from coaches and analysts alike. In his senior season, he posted averages of 22.7 points, 7.1 assists, and 4.5 rebounds per game. He was also a standout in the EYBL (Elite Youth Basketball League), where he competed against the best high school talent in the nation and routinely came out on top. Known for his unselfish play and calm demeanor under pressure, Foster is the kind of point guard who makes everyone around him better.
For Duke, the addition of Evans and Foster cannot be overstated. These two players not only fill critical roles in the team’s system but also represent the continued excellence of the Blue Devils’ recruiting machine. Since taking over as head coach, Jon Scheyer has proven that he is more than capable of maintaining the elite standards set by his legendary predecessor. Landing two five-star recruits in one cycle is no small feat, especially in the modern era of college basketball where NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals and the transfer portal have made recruiting more competitive than ever.
Evans and Foster join an already impressive group of incoming freshmen and returners that sets Duke up for a potential run at another national championship. The Blue Devils have consistently been among the top teams in the nation in terms of recruiting rankings, and this latest haul will only boost their profile. With these additions, Duke now boasts one of the deepest and most talented rosters in the NCAA, a lineup that can compete with anyone on any given night.
The announcement also carries symbolic weight. Both Evans and Foster hail from the Southeast—a region that has been fiercely contested in recruiting battles among powerhouses like Kentucky, North Carolina, and Tennessee. That both chose Duke speaks volumes about the program’s reputation, infrastructure, and developmental pipeline. It also reinforces the idea that Duke remains one of the most desirable destinations for elite high school talent.
In the days leading up to the announcement, speculation had run rampant. While both players had visited multiple campuses and received offers from several high-profile programs, there were strong indications that Duke had separated itself from the pack. Scheyer’s consistent communication, Duke’s proven track record of player development, and the allure of playing at Cameron Indoor Stadium were all cited as deciding factors in their decisions.
Social media has exploded with reactions to the news. Former Duke players, NBA stars, analysts, and fans alike have expressed excitement and approval. “Duke got themselves two killers,” tweeted former Blue Devil and current NBA guard Tyus Jones. ESPN analyst Jay Bilas called the commitments “a major win for Duke’s future” and noted that both players have the talent to make an immediate impact.
Evans and Foster’s decision to commit together also hints at the chemistry and camaraderie between the two players—something that could translate well on the court. The duo has played together in elite AAU circuits and showcased a natural understanding of each other’s games. Their connection, combined with the infrastructure at Duke, could make them one of the most dangerous tandems in college basketball next season.
For Duke fans, the commitments of Evans and Foster offer a tantalizing glimpse into the program’s future. With a roster already teeming with talent, these additions elevate expectations. While it’s too early to crown them as national champions, it’s not premature to consider them serious contenders.
Of course, the road to success in college basketball is never straightforward. Injuries, chemistry issues, and the sheer unpredictability of March Madness are always factors. But with Evans and Foster now officially in the fold, Duke has dramatically increased its odds of cutting down the nets.
As for the players themselves, the commitment to Duke represents both a culmination and a new beginning. Years of hard work, sacrifice, and dedication have brought them to this point, and now the real challenge begins. They will enter a program with high expectations and a fan base that demands excellence. But if their high school careers and scouting reports are any indication, Evans and Foster are more than ready for the spotlight.
Their journey at Duke begins now. And for the rest of college basketball, the message is clear: the Blue Devils are back, and they’re coming with firepower.
