There are moments in life that feel surreal—milestones that transcend dreams and etch themselves permanently into the story of who you are. For me, this is one of those moments. I am honored to be joining the Duke Basketball program, a historic and legendary institution that has long represented the pinnacle of college basketball. The excitement is indescribable, the pride overwhelming, and the gratitude I feel toward Coach Jon Scheyer and the entire Duke family is something I’ll carry with me every day I wear that jersey.
From the outside, people see Duke as a basketball powerhouse. They see the banners hanging in Cameron Indoor Stadium, the names of NBA greats who once walked through the same hallways, the electrifying energy of the Cameron Crazies, and the unyielding pursuit of excellence that defines this program. But for me, it’s always been something deeper. Duke represents tradition, integrity, and an unwavering belief in pushing past your limits. It’s where elite talent is molded not only into exceptional players but into leaders, competitors, and men of character.
Growing up, I remember watching Duke games with awe. I saw players like Kyrie Irving, Jayson Tatum, and Zion Williamson not only dominate the court but carry themselves with a level of poise and purpose that set them apart. That blue jersey meant something more—it represented a lineage, a bond, a brotherhood that extended far beyond four years of college basketball. It was a dream, one I never knew would one day become my reality. To now be able to say, without hesitation, that I am part of this legacy fills me with a sense of pride and responsibility that words can scarcely capture.
This dream would not be possible without the belief and trust of Coach Jon Scheyer. From our first conversation, I could feel the authenticity in his words, the clarity of his vision, and the depth of his commitment to developing not just great basketball players, but great men. Coach Scheyer is building something special at Duke—something that bridges the rich history of the program with a forward-thinking approach that adapts to the evolving nature of the game. His leadership style, rooted in respect, accountability, and purpose, made an instant impression on me. I am so grateful to him for seeing potential in me, for welcoming me into the Duke family, and for giving me the chance to grow under his guidance.
To be recruited by a program like Duke is not something I take lightly. I know the weight of the expectations. I know the sacrifices it takes. I know the legacy that has been built by those who came before me. And I’m ready to give everything I have to honor that legacy. I’m ready to earn my place in that jersey, to step onto Coach K Court with pride, and to fight for the brotherhood every single day—whether it’s in practice, in the locker room, or under the bright lights of March Madness.
The journey here has been filled with challenges, growth, and unwavering support from the people who believed in me long before this opportunity ever materialized. My family, first and foremost, has been my rock. Through every win, every loss, every late-night workout, and every moment of doubt, they’ve stood by my side. Their love and belief in me have shaped the person I am today. This moment is as much theirs as it is mine.
I also want to express my appreciation to my high school coaches and trainers who saw something in me and helped me refine it. They pushed me when I needed pushing, taught me how to be coachable, and challenged me to be a leader both on and off the court. They laid the foundation for this next step in my journey, and I’ll never forget the lessons they taught me.
Basketball has always been more than a game for me—it’s been a teacher, a motivator, and a sanctuary. It has taught me about resilience, discipline, and the importance of community. It has brought me friendships that will last a lifetime, and it has shown me that with faith, effort, and heart, anything is possible. Joining the Duke Basketball program feels like both a reward for the work I’ve put in and a responsibility to keep growing, learning, and giving everything I’ve got.
What excites me most about becoming a Blue Devil is the opportunity to immerse myself in the culture of excellence that defines Duke. It’s not just about winning games—it’s about doing things the right way. It’s about preparation, teamwork, and embracing the grind. It’s about competing with humility and leading with character. I know that being part of this program will challenge me in ways I can’t yet imagine, but that’s exactly why I chose Duke. I want to be pushed. I want to be uncomfortable. I want to evolve.
I look forward to playing alongside some of the most talented and driven athletes in the country. The brotherhood that exists within this program is not a marketing slogan—it’s real. You can feel it in the way the players support each other, in the way alumni continue to invest in the program, and in the way every Blue Devil carries themselves with pride, long after their college careers are over. I’m eager to build those bonds, to compete with my teammates, and to contribute however I can to the team’s success.
Of course, there will be pressure. Playing for Duke means having a target on your back. It means playing in front of packed arenas, national television audiences, and the most passionate fan base in college basketball. But I welcome that pressure. It’s a privilege to play in games that matter, to be part of moments that fans will remember for decades. I want to embrace every challenge, learn from every setback, and celebrate every victory—not just for myself, but for the program, for my teammates, and for the incredible fans who bleed Duke blue.
Academically, I’m also excited to join one of the top universities in the world. Duke’s commitment to excellence extends far beyond athletics, and I plan to make the most of the opportunities available to me in the classroom. Being a student-athlete at Duke means striving for greatness in all areas of life. I want to grow intellectually, explore new interests, and prepare myself for life beyond basketball—whatever form that may take.
In this moment of celebration, I also want to stay grounded. I know this is just the beginning. I know the real work starts now. I’m ready to earn everything—my minutes on the court, the respect of my coaches and teammates, and the chance to help Duke continue its tradition of competing at the highest level. I’m here to learn, to listen, to grow, and to serve the team in whatever role I’m needed.
I’d be remiss if I didn’t also thank the fans. Duke fans are legendary for a reason. From the energy inside Cameron Indoor Stadium to the support across the world, the Duke community is like no other. I can’t wait to feel that roar, to interact with the fans, and to be part of a tradition that’s bigger than myself. I promise to always give you my best—on the court, in the classroom, and in the community.
This opportunity has been years in the making. It’s the result of hard work, sacrifice, belief, and an unshakable love for the game. I’m so grateful to everyone who helped me get here, and I’m committed to making the most of every second I have as a Duke Basketball player.
To Coach Scheyer—thank you. Thank you for believing in me, for challenging me, and for welcoming me into the family. I look forward to learning from you, fighting alongside you, and making you proud. Your leadership and vision are a big part of why Duke is Duke, and I am beyond excited to be part of the future you are building.
To my future teammates—let’s get to work. Let’s hold each other accountable, push each other to be better, and chase greatness together. I know the path ahead won’t always be easy, but I also know we’ll be stronger for it.
To the Blue Devil Nation—I can’t wait to represent you with pride. Thank you for your support, your passion, and your love for this program. I’ll do everything I can to honor the jersey, the university, and the legacy that comes with it.
This is more than a commitment. It’s a promise. A promise to give everything I have. A promise to respect the game, the team, and the tradition. A promise to grow into the best version of myself—on and off the court.
I am honored to be joining the Duke Basketball program.
And I’m just getting started.