He’s Back: Jaemyn Brakefield Rejoins Duke to Finish What He Started

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He’s Back: Jaemyn Brakefield Rejoins Duke to Finish What He Started

​Jaemyn Brakefield’s journey in collegiate basketball has been marked by resilience, growth, and an unwavering commitment to his roots. After a notable tenure with the Ole Miss Rebels, Brakefield has made the momentous decision to return to Duke University, aiming to complete the mission he once set out on.​FOX Sports

Early Aspirations and Duke Commitment

Hailing from Jackson, Mississippi, Brakefield emerged as a standout talent during his high school years. His prowess on the court earned him a five-star recruit status, ranking as the No. 29 overall player in ESPN’s 100 rankings. Recognized as the top player from Mississippi and the fourth-best power forward nationally, his decision to commit to Duke University was met with enthusiasm from Blue Devils fans. At Duke, Brakefield joined a lineage of elite players, eager to contribute to the storied program. ​ESPN.comOle Miss Athletics – Hotty Toddy

Freshman Year at Duke

In the 2020-2021 season, Brakefield donned the Blue Devils jersey, participating in 22 games and making two starts. He averaged 3.5 points and 2.5 rebounds per game, showcasing glimpses of his potential. Notably, in a matchup against Michigan State during the Champions Classic, he delivered an 11-point performance, coupled with four rebounds. Another highlight was his impeccable shooting against Bellarmine, where he became the first freshman in Cameron Indoor Stadium’s history to go 4-for-4 from beyond the arc. ​SI+2Duke University+2Ole Miss Athletics – Hotty Toddy+2Ole Miss Athletics – Hotty Toddy

Transition to Ole Miss

Seeking more significant playing opportunities and a return to his home state, Brakefield transferred to the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) after his freshman year. This move allowed him to be closer to family and play a pivotal role in a burgeoning program. ​CBSSports.com

Impactful Seasons with the Rebels

Brakefield’s tenure at Ole Miss was marked by consistent growth and leadership:​Tar Heel Times+6SI+6Duke Basketball Report+6

  • Sophomore Year (2021-2022): He appeared in all 32 games, starting 25, and averaged 7.7 points along with 4.2 rebounds per game. His shooting accuracy stood at 47.1%, and he earned a spot on the SEC First-Year Academic Honor Roll. ​Ole Miss Athletics – Hotty Toddy

  • Junior Year (2022-2023): Elevating his performance, Brakefield averaged 11.1 points and 5.7 rebounds per game. His shooting efficiency improved to 53.7%, reflecting his dedication to refining his skills. ​ESPN.com

  • Senior Year (2023-2024): Continuing his upward trajectory, he maintained an average of 12.9 points and 4.9 rebounds per game, with a shooting percentage of 47.7%. His contributions were instrumental in several key victories for the Rebels. ​

Memorable Moments and Leadership

Brakefield’s time at Ole Miss was punctuated with standout performances. One of the most notable was his 19-point contribution in a victory over the No. 4 ranked Tennessee Volunteers, where he scored all his points in the final 11 minutes, including a decisive basket in the closing seconds. His leadership extended beyond the court; Brakefield utilized his Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) earnings to mentor and support a 16-year-old, emphasizing his commitment to community and personal development. ​Tar Heel Times+6SI+6Duke Basketball Report+6FOX SportsCBSSports.com

Decision to Return to Duke

After four impactful years at Ole Miss, Brakefield faced a pivotal decision. The allure of returning to Duke, combined with a desire to fulfill unfinished aspirations, led him back to Durham. This return symbolizes a full-circle moment, allowing him to bring his enriched experience and leadership to a program where his collegiate journey began.​SI

Anticipated Impact at Duke

Brakefield’s return is poised to bolster the Blue Devils’ roster with seasoned talent. His versatility as a forward, combined with his matured game sense, is expected to provide Duke with both offensive and defensive strengths. Moreover, his leadership and mentorship qualities will be invaluable in guiding younger teammates, fostering a cohesive and resilient squad.​

Jaemyn Brakefield’s basketball journey reflects a narrative of growth, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. His decision to return to Duke University not only underscores his dedication to personal and athletic development but also promises to enrich the Blue Devils’ pursuit of collegiate basketball prominence.

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