Jay Bilas, a prominent analyst and former Duke basketball player, has always been a strong advocate for the Blue Devils. His belief that Duke is one of the best two teams in NCAA basketball this season isn’t surprising, given his long-standing connection to the program and his insightful knowledge of college basketball. As a prominent commentator for ESPN, Bilas has an influential voice in shaping public perception of teams and players. When he says Duke is one of the best, it’s not just opinion—it’s grounded in a deep understanding of the game.
Duke’s Talent Pool
One of the most compelling reasons for Bilas’s endorsement of Duke as one of the best teams is their roster. Year after year, Coach Mike Krzyzewski, and now Coach Jon Scheyer, has been able to recruit some of the most talented young players in the country. This season is no exception.
Duke has an excellent mix of players, both veterans and newcomers, which makes the team incredibly dangerous. The Blue Devils feature a handful of high-impact players, some of whom are freshmen poised to make a significant impact on the national stage. When you combine these freshman sensations with experienced upperclassmen, it creates a perfect recipe for success in the rigorous grind of the NCAA tournament.
Freshmen Impact
Duke has become synonymous with recruiting blue-chip freshmen, and this year’s crop of first-year players is no different. Among the standouts, players like Tyrese Proctor, Jared McCain, and Mark Mitchell have given Duke a solid foundation of talent that rivals the best programs in the country. These players have the raw ability to carry Duke deep into March Madness.
Proctor, for instance, is a highly skilled guard known for his ability to score and distribute the basketball. His maturity and basketball IQ give him the potential to lead Duke in the most critical moments. McCain, on the other hand, has been recognized for his scoring ability, particularly from beyond the arc. Meanwhile, Mitchell has shown defensive prowess and the versatility to guard multiple positions, which is essential in today’s fast-paced game.
Duke’s ability to attract these blue-chip freshmen and blend them into a cohesive unit makes them an extremely dangerous team. Bilas, who has seen numerous players come and go from Duke, recognizes the potential of this group and knows how much they can elevate the team to a higher level.
Coaching Expertise
While talent is critical, coaching plays a huge role in transforming a team from good to great, and this is where Jon Scheyer’s ability to guide the program comes into focus. Scheyer, a former Duke player himself, took over as head coach after Coach K’s legendary career came to a close. Under Scheyer’s leadership, Duke has not only continued its tradition of excellence but has also adapted to the changing dynamics of modern college basketball.
Scheyer’s ability to develop young talent and create a system that maximizes their strengths has been evident in Duke’s early successes this season. He has instilled a sense of discipline and teamwork, while also allowing his players to express their individual skills. This balance between structure and freedom has allowed Duke to compete at a high level, making them one of the most feared teams in college basketball.
Bilas’s confidence in Scheyer is undoubtedly a factor in his belief that Duke is among the top two teams this season. As a player, Scheyer was known for his basketball IQ, and it’s clear that he brings that same level of understanding to the coaching bench.
Defensive Prowess
One of Duke’s hallmarks under Coach K was their defense, and that remains the case under Scheyer. Duke has always had a reputation for its tough, physical play on the defensive end, and that hasn’t changed. This year’s squad is no different, with several players known for their ability to lock down opposing scorers and create turnovers.
A key component of Duke’s defensive game is their size and length. Players like Mitchell and Kyle Filipowski give Duke a significant advantage on the defensive end. Their ability to contest shots, protect the rim, and switch onto smaller players makes them a formidable presence in the paint.
Duke’s commitment to defense allows them to compete with the best teams in the country, and it’s one of the reasons Bilas sees them as a contender. In March Madness, defense often wins games, and with Duke’s ability to clamp down on the opposing team, they are always a threat to make a deep run.
Depth and Versatility
Another reason for Bilas’s optimism regarding Duke’s chances this season is their depth. While the Blue Devils are led by their star freshmen, the team has solid depth in key positions. Players like Filipowski, a skilled big man, and Jeremy Roach, a seasoned veteran guard, give Duke a balanced attack both offensively and defensively.
The versatility of Duke’s players also sets them apart from other teams. Duke’s roster is filled with players who can do a little bit of everything. From big men who can stretch the floor and shoot three-pointers to guards who can run the offense and play lock-down defense, Duke has the tools to beat any opponent.
Bilas has repeatedly emphasized the importance of having a deep roster in March, where injuries and foul trouble often become a significant factor. With a strong bench and several players who can step up in crucial moments, Duke has the ability to withstand challenges and continue to perform at a high level throughout the tournament.
Competition in College Basketball
While Bilas is high on Duke’s chances, it’s important to acknowledge the stiff competition in college basketball this season. Teams like Kansas, Purdue, and Baylor are also among the top contenders for the national championship, and each has strengths that make them formidable opponents.
However, Duke’s combination of talent, coaching, defensive prowess, and depth gives them a strong edge over many of these teams. Duke’s ability to compete at a high level against the best in the country makes them one of the favorites to go deep in March, and that’s something Bilas consistently highlights.
In addition, the way college basketball has evolved in recent years—with more emphasis on guard play, three-point shooting, and pace—plays into Duke’s strengths. The Blue Devils have a well-rounded game, with talented guards, athletic wings, and skilled big men. Their ability to adapt to these changes makes them a balanced, dangerous team that can thrive in today’s college basketball landscape.
The X-Factor: March Madness
Of course, one of the biggest factors in Bilas’s belief in Duke’s championship potential is the unpredictable nature of March Madness. The NCAA tournament is known for its upsets and thrilling moments, and having a team that is both talented and mentally tough is essential to navigating the chaos.
Duke has a history of performing well in the NCAA tournament, with Coach K’s leadership guiding the team to five national championships. While Scheyer may be new to the tournament as a head coach, his familiarity with Duke’s program and its expectations gives him an edge.
The Blue Devils have the talent, depth, and experience to handle the pressure of March Madness. Whether it’s a close game down the stretch or a key moment in a high-stakes matchup, Duke is one of the teams that has shown the ability to step up when it matters most.