In a move that has already stirred significant excitement among Blue Devils fans and college basketball enthusiasts alike, details have begun to emerge regarding the much-anticipated upcoming open practice for the Duke men’s basketball team. This rare opportunity for the public to get an up-close look at the inner workings of one of college basketball’s most storied programs is being treated not just as a practice, but as a marquee event in the college hoops calendar. For a program like Duke, where every season carries national title expectations and fan loyalty runs deep, this open practice provides more than just a glimpse behind the curtain—it offers a real-time preview of the direction the program is taking under current head coach Jon Scheyer, the successor to legendary Mike Krzyzewski.
According to sources close to the program, the open practice will be held at Cameron Indoor Stadium, a cathedral of college basketball known for its intimate atmosphere, deafening acoustics, and a history rich in championship banners and unforgettable moments. The practice is scheduled for mid-September, aligning perfectly with the beginning of preseason activities and just ahead of the full ramp-up to the 2025–26 campaign. It’s a strategic choice in terms of timing, as it not only builds hype and momentum among fans but also gives the coaching staff a high-energy environment in which to see how players respond under a modest spotlight before the true lights go on in November.
The practice will reportedly be open to the public free of charge, although space will be limited. Given Cameron Indoor’s modest capacity of just over 9,300, the event is expected to reach standing-room-only status almost immediately. Duke’s athletic department has already stated that an RSVP process will be implemented, with season ticket holders and Iron Dukes donors likely to receive priority access. However, a number of spots will be reserved for students and general fans, further underscoring the inclusive spirit the program is trying to foster under Scheyer’s leadership. That inclusive spirit is something that has been carefully cultivated in recent years, as the program has evolved from Coach K’s exclusive, militarily structured practices to a more open, player-centric atmosphere that values both tradition and innovation.
From a basketball perspective, the open practice is expected to feature a full slate of activities. Fans can anticipate team drills, live scrimmages, shooting contests, and even some elements of strength and conditioning routines. Perhaps most importantly, there will be a chance to see Duke’s newest recruits and returning stars showcase their skills in real-time, offering a sneak peek into the likely rotations, playing styles, and tempo that Coach Scheyer intends to bring to the court this season. There’s particular intrigue surrounding the incoming freshman class, which ranks among the top three nationally and includes a blend of explosive scorers, versatile defenders, and high-IQ floor generals. With five-star prospects like Khaman Maluach and Isaiah Evans expected to play key roles from day one, the open practice becomes even more of a must-see event for those trying to gauge the future of the program.
While the focus will undoubtedly be on the basketball itself, the practice is also set to be a recruiting tool in its own right. In previous years, Duke has timed similar events to coincide with unofficial visits from high school standouts, allowing them to witness firsthand the energy of the fan base and the resources the program offers. Rumors are already swirling that several major prospects from the 2026 and 2027 classes will be in attendance, including top-10 talents and AAU standouts from all across the country. Their presence not only adds to the prestige of the event but also creates an additional layer of motivation for the players taking the floor—many of whom were once in the exact same position, wide-eyed and imagining what it would be like to wear Duke blue.
Of course, no Duke basketball event would be complete without a celebration of its legendary past, and sources have confirmed that several former Blue Devils are expected to be in attendance as well. Whether it’s NBA stars like Jayson Tatum and Zion Williamson making a surprise appearance, or recent alumni like Tre Jones and Wendell Moore Jr. offering words of encouragement, the connective tissue between generations of Duke players will be on full display. It’s that sense of legacy and continuity that has always separated Duke from other programs. This isn’t just a team—it’s a fraternity, a movement, and a symbol of sustained excellence.
The coaching staff is also likely to use the event as a platform to communicate directly with the fan base. Coach Scheyer is expected to speak either before or after the practice, providing insights into the team’s offseason development, upcoming challenges, and long-term goals. There may even be a brief Q&A session or fan engagement segment, reflecting a modern approach to leadership that values transparency and relationship-building. Scheyer, still in the early stages of his tenure, has already shown a willingness to adapt and innovate without losing sight of what made Duke great under his predecessor. Events like this open practice serve as a reminder that the program is in capable hands and is evolving with the times.
