Duke basketball under Jon Scheyer: Insiders give transfer portal news, 2025 recruits, roster, plus targets
Duke Basketball Under Jon Scheyer: Transfer Portal, 2025 Recruits, and Roster Outlook
As of April 21, 2025, Duke basketball, under the leadership of head coach Jon Scheyer, is navigating a transformative offseason. With a blend of incoming transfers, a stellar 2025 recruiting class, and strategic roster adjustments, the Blue Devils are positioning themselves for another competitive season in the ACC and on the national stage.
Roster Overview and Transfer Portal Activity
The 2024–25 season concluded with significant roster turnover for Duke, including departures to the NBA, graduation, and transfers. In response, Coach Scheyer has been proactive in the transfer portal, aiming to bolster the team’s depth and experience.
Key Transfer Additions:
- Mason Gillis (Purdue): A versatile forward known for his defensive prowess, Gillis brings invaluable experience to the Blue Devils. Notably, he became the first player to participate in consecutive Final Fours with different teams, having reached the national semifinal with both Purdue and Duke.
- Malik Brown (Syracuse): Brown adds depth to the frontcourt, offering rebounding and defensive capabilities.
- Sion James (Tulane): A dynamic guard, James provides additional backcourt options and playmaking skills.
Despite these additions, Duke has three open scholarships, indicating potential for further roster enhancements. The team is particularly interested in adding a guard to provide depth and a wing capable of efficiently hitting 3-pointers.
2025 Recruiting Class: A Glimpse into the Future
Duke’s 2025 recruiting class is shaping up to be one of the nation’s most formidable, with several five-star prospects committing to the Blue Devils.
Notable Commitments:
- Cameron and Cayden Boozer: The twin brothers are among the top 25 prospects in the 2025 class. Cameron, a power forward, and Cayden, a guard, are expected to make an immediate impact in Durham.
- Cooper Flagg: A generational talent, Flagg is anticipated to be a cornerstone for Duke’s future success.
Top Targets:
- AJ Dybantsa: A 6-foot-9 forward from Prolific Prep, Dybantsa is ranked No. 1 in the 2025 class. Duke is reportedly interested in extending an offer to him.
- Acaden Lewis: A 6-foot-3 combo guard from Washington, D.C., Lewis is ranked as the sixth-best combo guard nationally. He has received an offer from Duke and is being recruited by several top programs.
Strategic Outlook: Balancing Experience and Youth
Coach Scheyer faces the challenge of integrating a mix of seasoned transfers with a talented incoming freshman class. The team’s success will depend on how effectively these players mesh and adapt to the competitive demands of the ACC and NCAA tournaments.
With the combination of experienced transfers and high-caliber recruits, Duke is poised to remain a dominant force in college basketball. The upcoming season promises to be an exciting chapter in the program’s storied history.
