Duke Basketball’s Unexpected Coaching Change Stirs Strong Fan Reactions
In a surprising move that has captured the attention of college basketball enthusiasts, Duke University’s men’s basketball program announced the hiring of Evan Bradds as an assistant coach for the 2025-26 season. This decision follows the departure of former assistant coach Jai Lucas, who accepted a position with the Miami Hurricanes.
Evan Bradds: A New Chapter for Duke Basketball
Evan Bradds, a former standout at Belmont University, brings a wealth of experience to the Blue Devils’ coaching staff. His most recent role was with the Utah Jazz, where he served as an assistant coach focusing on player development. Bradds’ expertise in nurturing talent and his deep understanding of the game are expected to be invaluable assets to Duke’s program.
Jon Scheyer’s Vision for the Team
Head coach Jon Scheyer expressed his enthusiasm about Bradds’ appointment, highlighting his “unbelievable basketball mind” and “NBA player development experience.” Scheyer emphasized Bradds’ ability to build meaningful relationships with players, a quality central to Duke’s team culture. He believes Bradds’ experience and forward-thinking approach will help maintain Duke’s prominence in college basketball.
Fan Reactions: A Mixed Bag
The announcement of Bradds’ hiring has elicited a range of responses from Duke fans. Some supporters are excited about the fresh perspective and expertise Bradds brings to the team. They view his appointment as a strategic move to enhance player development and continue the program’s legacy of excellence.
However, not all reactions have been positive. Some fans expressed disappointment over the departure of Jai Lucas, who had been instrumental in recruiting and player development. They questioned the timing of his exit and the impact it might have on the team’s cohesion.
Looking Ahead
As Duke prepares for the upcoming season, the addition of Evan Bradds to the coaching staff is expected to bring a new dynamic to the team’s development strategies. While the change has sparked varied reactions among fans, the focus remains on the team’s performance and success on the court. With Bradds’ experience and Scheyer’s leadership, the Blue Devils aim to continue their tradition of excellence in college basketball.
Duke’s decision to hire Evan Bradds as an assistant coach has stirred a range of emotions among fans. While some embrace the change, others remain nostalgic for the contributions of Jai Lucas. Only time will tell how this coaching transition will influence the team’s trajectory in the coming season.
