Is it more likely Cedric Coward plays for Duke next season or remains in the 2025 NBA Draft?

Cedric Coward, a versatile and talented 6-foot-6 wing player, has made waves in college basketball after announcing his decision to transfer to Duke University. A standout at Washington State before his injury, Coward is regarded as one of the most intriguing players in the 2025 NBA Draft. His decision to declare for the draft while also committing to play for Duke next season leaves many wondering: Is it more likely that Coward will suit up for Duke in the upcoming season, or is he destined to stay in the 2025 NBA Draft?

This question requires an exploration of several factors, including Coward’s injury history, his NBA prospects, his fit at Duke, and the changing landscape of college basketball. Let’s break it down and assess the probabilities.

Background on Cedric Coward’s Career

Before we delve into Coward’s future, let’s take a look at his journey so far. Originally from the Pacific Northwest, Coward began his collegiate career at Willamette University, a Division III school, before transferring to Eastern Washington and then Washington State. He quickly made a name for himself as a high-level scorer and playmaker.

At Washington State, Coward’s performance was remarkable. Prior to a season-ending shoulder injury, Coward averaged 17.7 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game. His production in the Pac-12 was enough to place him on the radar of NBA scouts. His ability to shoot the ball, rebound, and create for teammates made him one of the more intriguing players in the 2025 NBA Draft class. Despite the injury, his performances at Washington State proved his readiness for higher competition.

In the face of uncertainty regarding his injury recovery and draft stock, Coward announced his decision to transfer to Duke, one of the premier programs in college basketball. This move was a signal of his ambition, as Duke’s history of developing NBA talent could provide him the platform needed to solidify his draft position. At the same time, Coward declared for the 2025 NBA Draft, which added a layer of complexity to his decision-making process.

The Case for Coward Playing at Duke

Let’s first explore why it may be more likely for Cedric Coward to suit up for Duke in the 2025–2026 season.

Development Opportunity at Duke

Duke University, under head coach Jon Scheyer, is known for its elite basketball program and the development of top-tier NBA prospects. With players like Zion Williamson, Jayson Tatum, and more recently, Paolo Banchero, the Blue Devils have consistently produced NBA-ready talent. Duke offers a developmental environment that allows players to sharpen their skills in front of a national audience, making it an ideal setting for a player like Coward, who may benefit from an additional year of growth before heading to the pros.

For Coward, playing at Duke could provide more exposure on a high-profile stage. College basketball fans know that players at Duke are often in the spotlight, and their games are regularly televised. With Duke’s national prominence, Coward would gain increased visibility and the opportunity to showcase his skills in high-profile games against top competition.

Additionally, Coward would benefit from Jon Scheyer’s coaching and Duke’s renowned player development system. Scheyer has shown that he can elevate his players’ games, as evidenced by the rapid development of players like Jaden Ivey, a top NBA Draft pick, and others. At Duke, Coward would have access to cutting-edge training resources, elite facilities, and a strong supporting cast. All of these factors could help him polish his game and increase his stock for a future NBA Draft.

Team Fit

Duke’s roster for the 2025–2026 season will likely feature some elite talent, with players like Caleb Foster and the Boozer twins (Cameron and Cayden) expected to be mainstays on the team. Coward, with his ability to play both on the wing and inside, could fit seamlessly into this lineup. His scoring ability would provide a much-needed offensive spark for the Blue Devils, and his defensive potential would allow him to guard multiple positions.

At Duke, Coward would likely be featured as a primary scoring option, and his all-around game would allow him to contribute immediately. His versatility as both a scorer and a rebounder makes him a natural fit in Duke’s system, where athletes are encouraged to play fast and play smart.

NCAA Eligibility

Coward still has one season of eligibility remaining after his season-ending injury at Washington State. As a graduate transfer, he would be eligible to play for Duke in the 2025–2026 season. If Coward wants to give college basketball one more shot before entering the professional ranks, playing for Duke would provide an ideal opportunity for him to refine his skills, boost his draft stock, and gain invaluable experience in high-stakes games.

The Case for Coward Staying in the 2025 NBA Draft

On the other hand, there are several reasons why Cedric Coward might decide to stay in the 2025 NBA Draft, despite his commitment to Duke.

Strong Draft Potential

Although Coward’s season was cut short by injury, he had already established himself as an intriguing NBA prospect. Before his injury, he averaged 17.7 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game while shooting an efficient 45% from the field. His combination of scoring, size, and playmaking ability made him a top contender for the NBA Draft, and scouts were already intrigued by his versatility.

Moreover, Coward’s skill set aligns with the current trends in the NBA. Wing players with the ability to stretch the floor, defend multiple positions, and contribute in various facets of the game are highly coveted. His 3-point shooting and athleticism make him an intriguing prospect for NBA teams, especially for those in need of a versatile, dynamic wing. Even with his injury, Coward’s potential is undeniable, and NBA teams could still see significant value in drafting him early.

Feedback from NBA Scouts

In the ever-evolving world of the NBA Draft, scouts and front-office executives often have differing opinions on players, especially those who have not played a full season. However, Coward’s injury is reportedly not expected to be a long-term concern, and NBA evaluators have already expressed interest in his skill set and potential. With many NBA teams looking to add young, versatile players to their rosters, Coward could be selected despite his injury history.

If Coward receives positive feedback from NBA teams—indicating he will likely be selected in the first or second round—he may feel confident in his decision to forgo college basketball and enter the pros. The financial incentives of an NBA contract and the ability to start his professional career could outweigh the benefits of another season in college basketball.

The Risk of Another Year in College

While Coward would certainly benefit from playing under Coach Scheyer at Duke, there’s always a level of risk in returning for another season in college basketball. An injury or a dip in performance could negatively impact his draft stock. If Coward feels that his draft prospects are strong enough, he may choose to avoid the risk of further injury in college and instead pursue a professional career immediately.

What Factors Will Influence Coward’s Decision?

Several factors will weigh heavily on Cedric Coward’s final decision:

1. Injury Recovery: Coward’s shoulder injury is a key concern. If he receives positive medical evaluations and feels confident in his recovery, he might decide to stay in the draft. If the injury is still a significant concern, playing another year at Duke could help him build his confidence and prove his health to NBA teams.
2. NBA Feedback: The feedback Coward receives from NBA scouts will be pivotal. If NBA teams project him as a mid-to-late first-round pick or early second-round pick, it may be more likely that he stays in the draft. If his evaluations indicate that his stock could rise with a strong season at Duke, he might opt to return to college.
3. Desire for Immediate Professional Experience: Coward may feel that now is the right time to enter the NBA, especially if his stock is already high. The opportunity to play professionally, alongside the financial security that comes with an NBA contract, could motivate him to make the jump sooner rather than later.

While both options are still very much on the table for Cedric Coward, the decision ultimately hinges on several key factors. If Coward receives positive feedback from NBA teams and feels confident in his recovery from injury, he may decide to remain in the 2025 NBA Draft. On the other hand, if he believes that another year of development at Duke under Jon Scheyer’s tutelage would significantly improve his draft stock, playing for the Blue Devils next season may prove to be the smarter choice.

Ultimately, Coward’s decision will likely be influenced by a combination of his confidence in his recovery, feedback from NBA scouts, and his desire to enter the professional ranks as soon as possible. With so much on the line, Cedric Coward’s decision will be one of the more intriguing storylines leading into the 2025 NBA Draft.