Jon Scheyer Confidently Explains His Thoughts on Winning ACC Tournament Victory of the Year and Shares the Story of His Mentor, Chris Carrawell, Former Assistant Coach of Duke University Basketball
Jon Scheyer’s rise to the head coaching position at Duke University was one of the most anticipated and well-discussed topics in college basketball. The transition from a star player to the head coach of one of the most storied programs in the sport’s history was filled with pressure, challenges, and the shadow of his legendary predecessor, Coach Mike Krzyzewski. Yet, as Scheyer began to leave his mark on the program, he also demonstrated that his leadership, vision, and ability to inspire his team were more than up to the task. But beyond the headlines, it is the relationships and mentors that have shaped him into the person he is today. One of those mentors, whose impact is still felt, is Chris Carrawell, a former Duke assistant coach, and a guiding force in Scheyer’s development as a player and a coach.
Winning the ACC Tournament: A Landmark Achievement
When Jon Scheyer confidently explains his thoughts on the ACC Tournament victory, he speaks with a sense of humility and pride, emphasizing the significance of the triumph for both himself and his team. “Winning the ACC Tournament isn’t just a milestone for me, but for our players, our staff, and our entire program,” he says. “It’s a testament to the hard work, dedication, and passion that we’ve put in all year.”
Under Scheyer’s leadership, Duke basketball secured the ACC Tournament title in his first season as head coach, a feat that many thought would be difficult to replicate, given the program’s changes. The victory was a symbol of not just the team’s growth but also of Scheyer’s ability to mold a young and talented roster into a cohesive unit.
One of the main factors that Scheyer attributes to this success is the team’s resilience. “We were tested in ways we hadn’t been before, and we grew together as a unit,” he says. “When you win a tournament like this, it’s not just about one or two players, but about the collective effort. We had so many guys step up at different points.”
Scheyer’s confidence shines through when reflecting on his team’s victory. While some may view his first ACC Tournament championship as a result of luck or happenstance, Scheyer is quick to point out the work that went into getting to that point. From his understanding of his players’ strengths to his tactical adjustments during crucial moments in the tournament, he recognizes that the championship was the product of meticulous planning, preparation, and effort.
“Of course, it’s a great accomplishment to win the ACC Tournament,” he says, his tone steady and assured. “But I’ve always viewed this game as a process. Winning this tournament reflects how we’ve been progressing as a team. We came together in the right moment, and that’s something I’ll always cherish.”
One of the key aspects of Scheyer’s approach is the emphasis he places on continuity and building on success. “This is just one step on a much larger journey,” he notes. “We’ve set a foundation, and now it’s about continuing to elevate our program year after year.”
The Mentorship of Chris Carrawell
As Scheyer discusses the significance of his achievements, he is quick to credit those who have mentored him along the way, none more influential than Chris Carrawell. Carrawell, a former Duke player and assistant coach, played a crucial role in Scheyer’s development both as a player and as a coach.
In the course of their conversations, Scheyer often refers to Carrawell’s profound influence. “Chris has been a mentor to me in every sense of the word,” Scheyer says. “From the moment I stepped foot in Duke, he’s been someone I could turn to for advice, perspective, and wisdom. His understanding of the game and his approach to leadership have been invaluable to me.”
Carrawell’s role as an assistant coach at Duke was one that allowed him to work closely with Scheyer during his time as a player. The bond between the two was one of mutual respect and admiration. Carrawell, who had played for Duke under Coach Krzyzewski, understood the intricacies of the program and its culture, and Scheyer benefitted from his insights.
When Scheyer reflects on his time as a player under Coach Krzyzewski and Carrawell’s mentorship, he is quick to point out how critical that experience was in shaping his basketball IQ and leadership abilities. “Chris taught me more than just X’s and O’s,” Scheyer says. “He taught me how to lead a group of men. He showed me what it means to put the team first and how to elevate those around you. And, above all, he instilled in me the idea that the culture of Duke basketball is about much more than winning. It’s about integrity, accountability, and always striving to be better.”
Carrawell’s influence extended far beyond just basketball. He was someone Scheyer could lean on during difficult moments, whether they were on the court or in life. “Chris was always there to talk through things, whether it was about basketball or just life in general,” Scheyer recalls. “He made me realize that coaching isn’t just about drawing up plays; it’s about connecting with your players and understanding them as people.”
As Scheyer moved into his coaching role, he was able to reflect on his experiences with Carrawell and apply them to his own philosophy. “One of the things that Chris taught me was the importance of building relationships with your players,” he says. “You can’t just be a coach who focuses solely on basketball. You need to know your players as people, and you need to be someone they can trust and respect.”
The Importance of Mentorship in Scheyer’s Growth
Looking back on his career, Scheyer acknowledges the importance of mentorship in his development, particularly from people like Carrawell, who not only mentored him but also showed him how to mentor others. “Mentorship is something that I take seriously,” Scheyer explains. “I think it’s critical for every player, every coach, to have someone who is willing to invest in them and guide them. That’s what I try to do with my players.”
Scheyer emphasizes the concept of leadership and growth, both as a player and as a coach. “Being a leader is about leading by example and setting the tone. Chris was that example for me. He was someone who always put the team first and always held himself accountable. It wasn’t about his personal achievements; it was about what was best for the team. That’s a lesson I carry with me every day.”
One of the key takeaways from Scheyer’s experience with Carrawell is the importance of consistency in leadership. “As a coach, you can’t just be a leader in moments of success,” Scheyer notes. “You have to be a leader in moments of adversity, too. That’s where the trust and respect you’ve built with your players come into play. If they believe in you, they’ll follow you, no matter the situation.”
As Scheyer continues to build his legacy at Duke, his confidence is rooted in the lessons and wisdom passed down to him from mentors like Carrawell. It’s clear that while Scheyer is a unique and capable leader in his own right, he recognizes the value of mentorship in shaping who he is as a coach.
Reflecting on the future, Scheyer remains focused on continuing to build on the foundation that he and his players have set. “The ACC Tournament win was a huge step for us, but it’s just one part of the larger journey,” he says. “I want our players to leave Duke not just as great basketball players, but as people who have learned how to overcome challenges, how to lead with integrity, and how to make a difference in the world.”
He credits Carrawell and others for giving him the tools to develop his own leadership style and for inspiring him to pay it forward by mentoring the next generation of players and coaches. “Chris has done that for me, and I want to do the same for my players.”
In the end, Jon Scheyer’s story is one of growth, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to his team and program. As he looks to the future, he is confident that the lessons learned from mentors like Carrawell will continue to guide him in creating a legacy that honors the values of Duke University basketball.
