Why Duke reserve Stanley Borden is merely an interested observer during Final Four run

The Duke University Blue Devils are a storied program in college basketball, with a rich history of championships, Hall of Fame coaches, and dynamic players. However, one individual who has played a lesser role in recent years, especially during their Final Four run, is reserve player Stanley Borden. While it may seem puzzling that a player on a prestigious team like Duke is relegated to an observer’s role during such a pivotal time, there are several reasons why Borden finds himself in this position. This article will explore the factors that contribute to Stanley Borden being an interested observer rather than an active participant in Duke’s Final Four run, including his role on the team, his developmental stage, coaching decisions, and the deeper dynamics of team culture and player development.

1. The Competitive Nature of Duke Basketball

Duke University is known for its elite basketball program, and its recruiting strategies reflect this status. The Blue Devils often bring in highly touted recruits, many of whom are future NBA stars. This competitive nature makes it difficult for any player, especially one who is not a highly ranked recruit, to secure significant playing time.

Stanley Borden, while undoubtedly a talented player, joined a team loaded with high-profile athletes, including some of the best freshmen in the country. The pressure to make an immediate impact is immense, and only the most exceptional players see regular minutes on the floor. Borden, being a reserve, is competing with players who are considered to be on the fast track to professional basketball careers, making his opportunities on the court limited.

For players like Borden, the road to earning playing time can be long and winding. Even though Borden may be practicing hard and contributing to the team in other ways, such as setting screens, providing a spark in practice, or offering leadership from the bench, these behind-the-scenes efforts do not always translate into meaningful game time, particularly in high-stakes situations like the Final Four.

2. The Role of Reserves in High-Pressure Games

In high-pressure games, such as those leading to the Final Four, coaches tend to rely on their most experienced and capable players. The rotation is often tightened, with coaches trusting the players who have consistently performed during the season. Borden, being a reserve, is unlikely to be seen in the pivotal moments of such games unless there are injuries or foul trouble among the starters.

Reserve players, no matter how talented, often find themselves on the sidelines during these critical moments. In Duke’s case, with a team full of established stars and young, highly talented athletes, there is little room for a player like Borden to step in and make a meaningful impact in high-stakes games. His role is more likely to be that of a supporter and an interested observer, watching his teammates take center stage.

3. Developmental Stages and Player Growth

Stanley Borden’s role as a reserve player can also be attributed to his current developmental stage. College basketball is a place for athletes to grow, refine their skills, and adjust to the demands of the game at the highest level. Not every player comes in as an immediate impact player; many take time to develop.

It’s possible that Borden is still working on areas of his game that are not yet refined enough to warrant consistent playing time. Perhaps his skills need further polishing—whether it be shooting consistency, defensive awareness, or overall court IQ. Coaches may recognize his potential but choose to prioritize the development of players who are already further along in these areas.

Additionally, in a program like Duke, which regularly recruits some of the best high school talent in the country, there is immense competition for minutes. This can sometimes mean that a player who has potential but is not quite ready for the spotlight must patiently wait for their opportunity, all while contributing to the team’s success in less visible ways.

4. Coaching Philosophy and Player Roles

Duke head coach Jon Scheyer (who took over the program after legendary coach Mike Krzyzewski retired) has inherited a team that’s full of expectations, talent, and ambition. In high-pressure situations, such as the NCAA Tournament and the Final Four, coaches often follow a specific philosophy when it comes to rotations.

Scheyer, like his predecessor, values experience and the ability to execute under pressure. Thus, it is likely that players with more experience and proven consistency are given the chance to play more minutes. Even though Borden may be working hard and performing well in practice, his chances to showcase himself during games are limited when the stakes are this high. Coach Scheyer’s decisions are based on what he believes will give the team the best chance to succeed, which often means focusing on players who have already proven themselves in real-game situations.

Additionally, with the intensity and focus required during the Final Four, coaches tend to stick to what they know works. A reserve player like Borden, though valuable in practice and morale, may not be called upon unless necessary due to unforeseen circumstances. In other words, his role may be to support his teammates from the bench, keeping them focused and ready, rather than actively participating in the game.

5. Team Chemistry and Supportive Roles

While Stanley Borden may not be playing on the court during Duke’s Final Four run, he plays an important and often overlooked role in the team’s success. Team chemistry is essential in any successful program, and Borden, as a reserve player, contributes significantly to that dynamic.

Players like Borden, who may not see as much playing time, are crucial in maintaining a positive and supportive atmosphere within the team. They provide energy and encouragement to the starters, participate in drills during practice, and ensure that the team remains focused on its goals. In many ways, the success of a team in high-pressure situations depends not just on the stars but also on those who support them behind the scenes.

Borden’s role as a supportive presence on the bench allows the other players to focus on their tasks without distractions. He can offer advice, assist in scouting reports, and help keep morale high during difficult stretches of games. This unseen work can be just as important as the points scored or the rebounds grabbed during a game.

6. The Long-Term Perspective: Looking Beyond the Final Four

Another reason why Stanley Borden may be an observer during Duke’s Final Four run is that his future within the program could be viewed through a long-term lens. College basketball is not just about the current season; it’s about preparing players for professional careers, whether that’s in the NBA, overseas, or in other basketball-related ventures.

Borden may be working hard to improve his skills and make a case for more significant playing time in future seasons. It’s not uncommon for players on prestigious teams to have to bide their time, as they refine their game and wait for the right opportunity. While the Final Four is an exciting and high-profile moment for any team, it’s important to recognize that players like Borden might view this as just one step in their broader development. The experience gained from being part of a championship run, even from the bench, can provide valuable lessons that benefit the player in the long run.