Duke women’s basketball just secured a major win on the recruiting trail with the commitment of 2026 four-star prospect Amiyah Washington, a dynamic and highly skilled guard out of Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Her decision to choose the Blue Devils sends a powerful message about where the program stands under head coach Kara Lawson and how it’s being perceived by the next wave of elite recruits. Washington, ranked No. 28 nationally in the 2026 class by ESPNW and considered one of the top combo guards in the country, made her announcement via social media on Sunday evening, thanking her family, coaches, and mentors before proudly declaring her commitment to Duke University.
This pledge is more than just a single addition to the roster. It signals Duke’s continued rise as a powerhouse in women’s basketball, and reinforces Lawson’s growing reputation as not only a player’s coach but a skilled recruiter with a clear vision for the future. Washington’s commitment follows a string of successful recruiting classes for Duke, and comes at a time when the program is poised to compete at the national level. With a blend of athleticism, leadership, and elite scoring ability, Washington projects as an immediate impact player who could play a central role in the program’s trajectory over the next few years.
Washington, a 5-foot-10 playmaker from St. Thomas Aquinas High School, is known for her high basketball IQ, quick first step, and ability to create offense both for herself and her teammates. Scouts have lauded her for her advanced feel for the game, her smooth shooting stroke, and her ability to take over when it matters most. She has also earned praise for her maturity and composure under pressure, two traits that have helped her stand out on the EYBL circuit and during national showcase events. While she’s capable of scoring in bunches, what truly sets Washington apart is her versatility and willingness to do the little things—whether it’s diving for loose balls, defending the opponent’s top guard, or finding the open teammate in transition.
The recruitment of Washington was highly competitive, with several top-tier programs—including South Carolina, Ohio State, Notre Dame, and Stanford—expressing strong interest. But throughout the process, Duke emerged as a favorite due to the relationships built with the coaching staff, the opportunity for early playing time, and the academic prestige of the university. Those close to her recruitment cited Kara Lawson’s authenticity and long-term vision as key factors in the decision. “Coach Lawson was real with me from day one,” Washington said in an interview following her announcement. “She believes in me, not just as a basketball player but as a person. She sees something in me, and I see something in Duke. It just felt right.”
Duke’s resurgence on the recruiting trail has been a consistent theme in the Kara Lawson era, and the addition of Washington continues that trend. Since taking over as head coach in 2020, Lawson has emphasized the importance of building a culture of toughness, accountability, and excellence both on and off the court. That message has resonated with elite talent across the country. Her ability to relate to players, draw from her own experience as a former WNBA champion and Olympian, and communicate a clear vision has made Durham an increasingly attractive destination for high-level prospects. The program’s style of play—fast-paced, guard-friendly, and rooted in discipline—also aligns perfectly with Washington’s game.
Washington’s commitment also speaks to the growing national reach of Duke women’s basketball. For a long time, the program primarily focused on regional talent from the Carolinas, Virginia, and Georgia. But under Lawson’s leadership, the net has widened significantly. In recent years, the Blue Devils have landed top recruits from California, Texas, and now Florida, showcasing their ability to recruit coast to coast. This national recruiting footprint is a crucial development for a program with championship aspirations, and Washington’s pledge is a prime example of that evolution.
Beyond the X’s and O’s, Washington brings intangibles that are hard to teach. Coaches and evaluators often describe her as a “culture-builder”—a player who uplifts teammates, demands excellence, and sets the tone in practice and games alike. At St. Thomas Aquinas, she’s been a leader since her freshman year, earning team captain honors and helping lead her squad to multiple state playoff appearances. Her combination of talent and character has drawn comparisons to former Duke star Chelsea Gray, who also excelled as a do-it-all guard capable of elevating those around her.
Looking ahead, Washington’s future at Duke appears bright. She’ll be joining a program that returns a strong nucleus of young talent and will likely have an immediate opportunity to compete for minutes. With her size, skill set, and work ethic, she fits seamlessly into the Blue Devils’ system. Analysts believe she could eventually slide into a lead guard role, capable of running the offense or playing off the ball depending on the lineup. Her ability to defend multiple positions also gives Lawson flexibility in building lineups that can switch defensively and push the tempo offensively.
Washington’s commitment also has ripple effects beyond the basketball court. She’s the type of player who can attract other elite prospects. In the modern recruiting landscape, peer-to-peer influence matters just as much as coaching pitches or campus visits. Washington is well-connected within the 2026 and 2027 classes, and her decision to choose Duke could open the door for additional high-level commitments. Already, social media buzz is building, with several fellow prospects congratulating her and hinting at the possibility of teaming up in Durham.
Duke fans have every reason to be excited about this addition. In Washington, they’re getting a player who not only has the skills to compete at the highest level but also embodies the values of hard work, humility, and leadership. She represents the next chapter in what is shaping up to be a golden era for Duke women’s basketball, and her arrival marks a continuation of the momentum the program has been steadily building.
Washington’s journey to this point hasn’t been without obstacles. She’s battled injuries, faced the pressure of early recruiting attention, and remained grounded through it all. Those who know her best describe her as fiercely competitive but refreshingly humble. Her parents, both former athletes, instilled in her the value of discipline and resilience from a young age. Her high school coaches credit her with setting the tone during practice and being the first to volunteer for extra work. That blue-collar mentality is part of what drew Duke’s staff to her in the first place.
With nearly two years until she steps onto the floor in Cameron Indoor Stadium, there’s still time for Washington to grow and refine her game. But the foundation is already in place. She’s a polished scorer, an improving passer, and a tenacious defender who plays with poise well beyond her years. If her high school and club performances are any indication, she’s only scratching the surface of her potential. Duke fans can look forward to seeing a player who thrives on the big stage and lives for the big moment.
As the landscape of women’s college basketball continues to evolve—with NIL opportunities, increased visibility, and growing parity—programs like Duke that combine tradition with innovation are well-positioned to thrive. Washington’s commitment is both a statement and a symbol: Duke is not just participating in the recruiting arms race; it’s winning it. With Lawson at the helm and players like Washington on the way, the future looks exceptionally bright in Durham.
Ultimately, Washington’s decision is about more than basketball. It’s about finding a home where she can grow, compete, and chase greatness. For Duke, it’s another building block in a championship blueprint. And for fans of women’s college basketball, it’s yet another reason to keep a close eye on the Blue Devils in the years to come. The commitment of Amiyah Washington is a defining moment for the 2026 recruiting class—and a powerful reminder that the best is yet to come for Duke women’s basketball.