Early predictions for the 2026 Final Four suggest Duke basketball as a strong contender for the March Madness national championship.
Early predictions for the 2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament have positioned Duke University as a formidable contender for the national championship. Despite the anticipated departure of standout freshman Cooper Flagg to the NBA, the Blue Devils are poised for another strong season under head coach Jon Scheyer.
Duke’s 2025 Season Recap
The 2025-26 season follows a remarkable 2024-25 campaign where Duke finished with a 35-4 record, narrowly losing to Houston in the Final Four. The team’s performance was bolstered by the exceptional play of Cooper Flagg, who was named to the All-NCAA Tournament team and led the Blue Devils to an ACC Tournament title with a 73-62 victory over Louisville.
Key Departures and Incoming Talent
While Flagg’s departure leaves a significant void, Duke’s recruiting efforts have been robust. The Blue Devils are in contention for a “package deal” with two highly-ranked 2026 prospects: Brandon McCoy, a 6-foot-4 point guard from Bellflower, California, and Jordan Smith, a 6-foot-2 shooting guard from Paul VI Catholic in Virginia. Both players are ranked among the top six in their class and are considering committing to the same college, with Duke being a potential destination.
Betting Odds and National Outlook
According to recent betting odds, Duke is favored to win the 2026 NCAA National Championship, with odds of +1000. Houston follows closely at +1200, while defending champion Florida is listed at +2500. Other strong contenders include UConn, BYU, Purdue, Arkansas, and Kansas.
With a blend of returning talent, strategic recruiting, and a proven coaching staff, Duke University is well-positioned to make a deep run in the 2026 NCAA Tournament. The potential addition of top-tier recruits further enhances their prospects, making them a team to watch as the season unfolds.
