Duke basketball under head coach Jon Scheyer is entering a pivotal offseason that could define the trajectory of the program for years to come. With the dust settling on the 2024-25 campaign, all eyes are on how Scheyer and his staff are navigating the transfer portal, reloading with elite 2025 recruits, and shaping the roster to contend for another national title. As the Blue Devils look to remain a dominant force in college basketball, the insider buzz paints a clear picture of strategic moves, high-level evaluations, and calculated risks.
The transfer portal has become a key tool for roster construction in the modern era, and Duke has been aggressive in identifying plug-and-play talent. With several key departures from this past season’s squad—either to the NBA Draft, graduation, or the portal itself—the Blue Devils are actively pursuing impact players who can step in immediately. One of the biggest headlines out of Durham is the coaching staff’s ongoing pursuit of high-scoring guards and versatile wings. While no official announcements have been made, insiders say that Duke is in advanced talks with multiple top-tier transfers, including several Power Five veterans and one mid-major star who averaged over 18 points per game last season.
The biggest focus has been on finding a true floor general who can replace the leadership and playmaking of Jeremy Roach. Roach, a steady hand throughout his Duke career, declared for the NBA Draft, and his departure leaves a noticeable gap in the backcourt. Among the rumored targets is a former SEC guard known for his court vision, perimeter defense, and high basketball IQ. Duke is also eyeing a Big Ten wing with two years of eligibility remaining who could provide scoring punch and elite athleticism.
Adding to the intrigue is the decision of star freshman Cooper Flagg to return for his sophomore season. The 6-foot-9 phenom was the centerpiece of Duke’s 2024-25 team and was courted heavily by multiple NIL collectives in an attempt to lure him away. His decision to stay, reportedly turning down $7.5 million in offers from Georgia and Notre Dame, sent a clear message: he’s committed to the Brotherhood and winning a national title. Flagg’s return solidifies Duke’s frontcourt and makes the Blue Devils an immediate title contender again, especially if the staff can surround him with the right complementary pieces.
Duke is also monitoring the NBA decisions of a few key players. Sophomore big man Sean Stewart is weighing his draft options but is more likely to return unless he receives a first-round guarantee. Meanwhile, sophomore sharpshooter Jared McCain is reportedly leaning toward staying another year to improve his draft stock and compete for a title, though nothing is set in stone. Should both return, the Blue Devils would retain a solid core of experienced, high-upside talent.
Recruiting on the high school front continues to be a major strength for Scheyer and his staff. The 2025 class is shaping up to be another blue-chip group, headlined by five-star guard Cayden Boozer, son of Duke legend Carlos Boozer. Cayden, along with his twin brother Cameron, have long been linked to Duke, and while Cameron’s recruitment is still open, most insiders believe both are likely to end up in Durham. Cayden brings elite playmaking, toughness, and an understanding of the program’s culture, making him a natural fit.
Another key target is five-star forward Koa Peat, a dominant force in the paint with a polished offensive game and defensive versatility. Peat recently took an unofficial visit to campus and raved about the facilities, coaching staff, and Duke’s commitment to player development. Duke is considered one of the favorites in his recruitment, with Arizona, Baylor, and Michigan also in the mix. If Scheyer can land Peat alongside the Boozer twins, it would mark one of the strongest classes in recent memory.
In addition to the headline names, Duke has offers out to several other top-25 players in the 2025 cycle, including sharpshooting guard Isiah Harwell and dynamic combo forward Caleb Wilson. The coaching staff is being meticulous in their evaluations, prioritizing not just talent, but character, fit, and long-term upside. Assistant coaches Chris Carrawell and Jai Lucas have been instrumental in building relationships and maintaining Duke’s status as a premier recruiting power.
There is also growing speculation about international additions. Duke has reportedly been scouting in Europe and Canada, looking for skilled bigs and stretch forwards who could provide depth and a different look in the frontcourt. With Olivier Rioux, the 7-foot-6 Canadian center, transferring in from Florida, the Blue Devils are embracing size and length like never before. Rioux brings a unique physical profile and surprising agility for his frame, and while he’s still raw, the coaching staff sees massive upside if he develops his skillset.
Roster management in this new era of college basketball is a delicate dance, and Scheyer appears to be mastering it. With the combination of returning stars, elite recruits, and experienced transfers, Duke is positioned to reload rather than rebuild. The coaching staff is also emphasizing internal development, with plans for summer workouts that focus on strength, conditioning, and shooting consistency. The expectation is that several bench players from last year’s squad, including Caleb Foster and TJ Power, will take significant steps forward and carve out larger roles.
The program’s identity under Scheyer is becoming clearer: high-tempo offense, positionless defense, and a commitment to unselfish play. Duke is no longer just a collection of elite prospects; it’s a cohesive unit being molded with intention and purpose. Insiders say Scheyer has earned the trust of the locker room and the recruiting trail alike, blending old-school Duke principles with modern flexibility.
As the Blue Devils continue through the offseason, all signs point to a calculated and confident approach. The staff is playing the long game while staying aggressive in the short term, balancing win-now expectations with sustained success. With Cooper Flagg leading the charge, a wave of new talent on the horizon, and a clear strategic vision, Duke basketball under Jon Scheyer is not just holding steady—it’s building something special.
For fans, the message is clear: buckle up. The next era of Duke hoops is here, and it promises to be as dynamic, competitive, and exciting as ever.