Duke Among the Top Two NCAA Basketball Teams This Season, According to Jay Bilas
As the 2025 college basketball season heats up, one name that continues to generate buzz is Duke University. The Blue Devils, under the leadership of head coach Jon Scheyer, have firmly established themselves as one of the top programs in the country, and according to ESPN’s basketball analyst Jay Bilas, they are among the top two teams in NCAA basketball this season. Duke’s blend of youth, talent, and experience has allowed them to thrive in the competitive world of college hoops, and as the season progresses, their prospects for success only seem to grow stronger.
Bilas, one of the most respected voices in the basketball community, has been a longtime observer and commentator on the intricacies of the game. His insight into the world of college basketball is sought after by fans and analysts alike, and his endorsement of Duke as one of the nation’s top two teams is a powerful statement about their strength and potential in the 2025 season.
The Rise of Duke Under Jon Scheyer
Duke’s basketball program has long been synonymous with success, especially during the era of legendary coach Mike Krzyzewski, who led the Blue Devils to five national championships and a slew of conference titles. When Krzyzewski announced his retirement in 2022, many questioned how the program would fare without its iconic leader. Enter Jon Scheyer, the former Duke player and assistant coach who had been groomed to take over the reins.
In his second season as head coach, Scheyer has proven to be more than capable of maintaining the high standards of excellence set by his predecessor. His approach to coaching blends the traditional Duke style of tough defense, fast-paced offense, and high basketball IQ, with an infusion of modern elements that cater to today’s game. Scheyer’s ability to develop talent, foster chemistry within the team, and execute in big moments has made Duke a powerhouse once again.
In his tenure so far, Scheyer has been able to blend experienced players with top-tier recruits, creating a balanced and versatile team that is built for success. With a focus on player development, Scheyer has managed to get the most out of his roster, and the result has been a team that plays with confidence, poise, and ambition. Duke’s record, current position in the rankings, and overall performance this season speak volumes about Scheyer’s ability to lead.
The Blue Devils’ Talent: A Perfect Mix of Freshmen and Veterans
Duke’s success this season is attributed to a combination of dynamic freshmen and seasoned upperclassmen who complement each other on the court. The Blue Devils have been led by a number of standout players who contribute in different ways, but it is the balance between youth and experience that has allowed them to excel.
At the forefront of this Duke team is their freshman class, which has been touted as one of the best in the country. Among the most prominent players in this class is Jaden Ivey, a highly skilled guard known for his lightning-fast speed and impressive scoring ability. Ivey’s ability to take over games, create opportunities for his teammates, and finish at the rim has made him one of the most exciting players in college basketball this season. His maturation under Scheyer’s guidance has been evident, and he is one of the primary reasons why Duke is considered one of the nation’s elite teams.
Joining Ivey in the freshman class is Dariq Whitehead, a forward with a unique combination of size, athleticism, and skill. Whitehead’s versatility on both ends of the court has allowed him to contribute significantly to Duke’s success. Whether he’s scoring in the paint, pulling down rebounds, or guarding multiple positions, Whitehead’s presence on the court has been vital for the Blue Devils. His ability to impact the game in so many ways has made him a key part of Duke’s rotation.
While the freshmen have been outstanding, Duke’s upperclassmen have also played a pivotal role in the team’s success. Kyle Filipowski, a junior forward who transferred from Michigan State, has emerged as one of the team’s leaders. His experience and basketball IQ have been invaluable, especially in close games where his leadership shines. Filipowski’s scoring ability and presence on the glass make him one of the most dangerous players in the ACC.
Another player who has stepped up for Duke this season is Tyrese Proctor, a senior guard who has been a consistent force in the backcourt. Proctor’s leadership and steady play have helped anchor the team, particularly during moments when the freshmen may have been feeling the pressure of big games. His ability to distribute the ball and make clutch shots has made him a key contributor to the Blue Devils’ success.
This blend of talented freshmen and seasoned veterans has allowed Duke to play an exciting, fast-paced style of basketball while also demonstrating the discipline and composure needed in high-pressure situations. The mix of youthful exuberance and experienced leadership is exactly what has made Duke one of the top teams in the nation this season.
Jay Bilas’ Endorsement: What It Means for Duke
When Jay Bilas speaks, people listen. As a former Duke player and a prominent basketball analyst, Bilas’ opinions carry significant weight. His endorsement of Duke as one of the top two teams in NCAA basketball this season is a clear indication of the program’s strength and potential. Bilas is known for his sharp analysis, and his praise of Duke reflects not only the team’s talent but also their ability to perform at the highest level in the face of stiff competition.
Bilas’ view is grounded in his deep understanding of the game and his recognition of Duke’s all-around excellence. According to Bilas, Duke’s success this season is driven by their defensive prowess, offensive firepower, and balance. “Duke is a complete team,” Bilas said in a recent broadcast. “They have all the pieces: elite freshmen, strong leadership, and a coach who knows how to get the most out of his players. This is a team that has the potential to make a deep run in the tournament and even compete for a national championship.”
Bilas’ assessment aligns with the sentiment shared by many basketball experts and fans across the country. Duke’s combination of star power and depth has made them a formidable opponent for any team, and their performance this season has shown that they are not just another top-tier team—they are legitimate contenders for the NCAA title.
A Strong Defense and Dynamic Offense
One of the reasons Duke has been so successful this season is their ability to play strong, disciplined defense. Duke has long been known for its defensive intensity, and this year’s team has continued that tradition. Scheyer’s system emphasizes pressure defense, forcing turnovers, and limiting opponents’ scoring opportunities. This defensive mindset allows Duke to get out in transition, leading to easy baskets and fast breaks, which have been a hallmark of their play this season.
On the offensive side of the ball, Duke has been equally impressive. Their offensive scheme is fluid and versatile, allowing them to attack in a variety of ways. Whether it’s Ivey driving to the basket, Whitehead pulling up for a mid-range jumper, or Filipowski crashing the boards for second-chance points, Duke has the offensive firepower to compete with the best of them. They also share the ball extremely well, with a balanced attack that allows multiple players to contribute on any given night.
Duke’s offensive and defensive balance is a big reason why they are so difficult to beat. Their ability to lock down defensively and then turn that into offense gives them a significant advantage over other teams in the NCAA. This well-rounded approach is why they’ve been able to take down some of the top teams in the country and maintain their position among the elite in college basketball.
Key Games and The Road Ahead
As Duke heads into the latter part of the 2025 season, the schedule doesn’t get any easier. With key matchups in the ACC and the looming NCAA Tournament on the horizon, the Blue Devils will need to continue to perform at a high level to solidify their spot as one of the top teams in the nation.
One of the biggest challenges for Duke will be their remaining games against ACC rivals, including teams like North Carolina, Virginia, and Miami. These teams have all proven to be tough competition, and a strong finish in the conference is essential for Duke as they look to position themselves for a high seed in the NCAA Tournament.
While the road ahead will be challenging, Duke’s combination of youth, experience, and coaching makes them one of the top contenders to make a deep run. If the Blue Devils continue to play with the same intensity and focus that has gotten them to this point, there is little doubt that they will be a force to be reckoned with come March.