The HOTTEST Take: How Roster Retention SAVED Duke Basketball.
In the ever-evolving landscape of college basketball, where roster turnover is the norm, Duke University’s men’s basketball team achieved an extraordinary feat in the 2024–25 season: they maintained a remarkable level of roster continuity. While many programs experienced significant departures, Duke’s ability to retain key players proved to be a game-changer, propelling them to an impressive 32–2 record and a deep run in the NCAA Tournament.
The 2024 offseason was marked by significant departures for Duke. All-American Kyle Filipowski, along with Jared McCain, Jeremy Roach, and Mark Mitchell, all left for the NBA or transferred to other programs. This exodus left Duke with a roster that was, by all accounts, in a state of flux. However, amidst this upheaval, Duke managed to retain two crucial players: Tyrese Proctor and Caleb Foster.
Tyrese Proctor: Entering his junior season, Proctor emerged as the team’s primary facilitator and a reliable three-point shooter. His leadership on the court provided stability and direction for the Blue Devils.
Caleb Foster: Despite an injury-shortened previous season, Foster returned with renewed vigor. His scoring ability and defensive prowess were instrumental in Duke’s success.
The presence of these two players allowed Duke to maintain a semblance of continuity, which proved invaluable as they integrated new talent into the lineup.
Duke’s recruiting efforts brought in a stellar class of freshmen, including Cooper Flagg, Isaiah Evans, Kon Knueppel, and Khaman Maluach. These young talents, combined with experienced transfers like Sion James and Maliq Brown, infused the team with energy and skill. However, it was the seamless integration of these new players with the returning veterans that truly set Duke apart.(ABC7 San Francisco)
The 2024–25 season saw Duke dominate the ACC, finishing with a 32–2 record. Their roster continuity allowed for a cohesive playing style, where chemistry and familiarity were evident on the court. This synergy propelled them to the Final Four, where they narrowly missed out on a national championship, falling to Houston in a tightly contested game.
Duke’s success underscores the importance of roster retention in college basketball. In an era where the transfer portal has become a primary avenue for player movement, maintaining continuity can provide a competitive edge. Duke’s ability to blend experienced leadership with fresh talent offers a blueprint for other programs aiming to achieve sustained success.
In the 2024–25 season, Duke University’s men’s basketball team demonstrated that in a world of constant change, stability can be a powerful asset. Their commitment to roster continuity not only preserved their competitive edge but also set a standard for excellence in college basketball. As other programs look to emulate Duke’s success, the lesson is clear: in the game of college basketball, sometimes the best move is to hold onto what you have.
