Duke Basketball Sends Offer to Rising 2025 Four-Star Prospect, Signaling Renewed Push to Bolster Future Recruiting Class Depth
Duke basketball’s recruiting machine is ramping up once again, this time setting its sights on one of the more intriguing talents in the 2025 class. Over the weekend, the Blue Devils extended a scholarship offer to rising four-star prospect Caleb Montgomery, a 6-foot-7 wing from Arizona who has quickly climbed the national rankings.
The offer signifies Duke’s continued commitment to reloading under second-year head coach Jon Scheyer, whose recruiting philosophy blends traditional five-star targets with high-upside players like Montgomery. The gesture also reflects a clear evaluation: the Blue Devils believe Montgomery can be a long-term contributor who fits their system on both ends of the court.
Who is Caleb Montgomery?
Montgomery, currently rated the No. 46 overall player and No. 9 small forward in the 247Sports Composite Rankings, has turned heads over the past year with his versatile skill set. He boasts a smooth shooting stroke, the ability to attack off the dribble, and the length to guard multiple positions.
Playing for AZ Unity on the EYBL circuit, Montgomery averaged 16.3 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 2.2 assists during Peach Jam this summer — a performance that drew the attention of blueblood programs. Duke became the latest to enter the fray, joining a crowded field that includes Arizona, UCLA, USC, and Baylor.
“Caleb is a matchup nightmare,” said one scout from the tournament. “He’s too quick for most fours and too strong for most threes. You can see why Duke is involved now.”
Why Duke Makes Sense
For Montgomery, the Duke offer represents more than just a blueblood program knocking on his door — it’s a chance to join one of college basketball’s most iconic brands. Under Scheyer, the Blue Devils have made it clear that character, versatility, and basketball IQ are top priorities.
“Coach Scheyer called me and told me they love how I compete, how I defend, and how I can play multiple roles,” Montgomery told Rivals. “It was surreal. I grew up watching Duke — this means everything to me and my family.”
That versatility could make Montgomery a unique asset in Durham. With Duke’s current roster loaded with scorers and length on the perimeter, the team needs players who can space the floor, defend across positions, and keep the ball moving in half-court sets. Montgomery fits the mold.
Recruiting Competition
While Duke’s offer is significant, it comes late in a process that has seen Montgomery build strong ties elsewhere. Arizona, led by Tommy Lloyd, has been considered the front-runner, thanks in part to geographic proximity and Lloyd’s player development success. UCLA has also been aggressive, pitching immediate playing time in a program undergoing roster turnover.
Still, Duke’s reputation — especially its recent track record of sending wings to the NBA — could tilt the race. The Blue Devils’ ability to showcase players in a national spotlight, along with the endorsement of NBA talent evaluators, gives them an edge that few programs can replicate.
“Montgomery is exactly the type of guy NBA teams will want in two years,” one former ACC assistant noted. “Long, athletic, defends, shoots, moves well without the ball — Duke could be a great fit for him developmentally.”
The Bigger Picture for Duke
This offer is the latest in a flurry of recruiting activity for the Blue Devils, who are looking to build on their impressive 2024 haul, which includes top-five recruits Cooper Flagg and Khaman Maluach. The coaching staff has been targeting high-upside players with room to grow, and Montgomery is a prime example.
In addition to Montgomery, Duke has recently shown interest in other top-50 2025 players, including point guard Trey McKenney and center Amari Westbrook. The staff’s strategy appears to prioritize positional versatility, shooting, and maturity — key qualities needed to compete at the top of the ACC and beyond.
“Coach Scheyer and his assistants are building something sustainable,” said ESPN recruiting insider Paul Biancardi. “They want hungry kids, not just stars. Caleb Montgomery’s offer tells you they see both — talent and drive.”
What’s Next?
With Duke now in the mix, Montgomery said he plans to take an official visit to Durham in the fall. He’ll also visit Arizona, UCLA, and possibly Baylor before making a decision in the winter. While no timetable is set, sources close to the family expect a verbal commitment before the high school season begins in November.
Until then, Duke fans will be watching closely as the Blue Devils try to secure another key piece for their 2025 puzzle. Whether or not they land Montgomery, the offer reflects a clear trend: Jon Scheyer’s recruiting reach is expanding, and his vision for Duke basketball is taking shape — one versatile, high-character player at a time.
Duke’s offer to Caleb Montgomery is more than a recruiting update — it’s a statement. A statement that the Blue Devils are not simply hunting for headline names but are deeply focused on building a well-rounded, competitive roster capable of winning championships. For Montgomery, the attention is well-earned, and for Duke, it may mark the beginning of another fruitful player-coach relationship rooted in mutual respect and potential greatness.
As the 2025 class continues to develop, all eyes will be on Montgomery and the Blue Devils — two names that could be forever linked if this courtship leads to a commitment and, eventually, Cameron Indoor Stadium glory.
