With Duke basketball in the Final Four, coach Jon Scheyer and coach K discuss the Blue Devils.

As the 2025 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament reaches its final stages, the Duke Blue Devils have made their mark by advancing to the coveted Final Four. Under the leadership of Jon Scheyer, in his second season as head coach, Duke’s performance has captured the attention of basketball fans everywhere. But alongside Scheyer, Duke’s legendary former coach, Mike Krzyzewski—commonly known as Coach K—has been a guiding figure, providing insight and perspective on the team’s journey and the continued legacy of the Blue Devils. In this piece, we delve into both Coach Scheyer’s and Coach K’s reflections on Duke basketball’s path to the Final Four.

Coach Jon Scheyer: Building the Legacy

Jon Scheyer, a former Duke star and Coach K disciple, took over the program after Coach K’s retirement in 2022. The transition from the most successful coach in college basketball history to Scheyer, who was relatively unproven as a head coach, was met with a great deal of scrutiny. However, Scheyer has demonstrated his coaching acumen, proving that he is more than capable of carrying the torch forward.

Scheyer’s first season as head coach was a testament to his growth and ability to adapt to the demands of leading one of college basketball’s most prestigious programs. The 2025 season has been a significant leap forward, as Duke has looked more cohesive and focused than ever before. Their path to the Final Four has been marked by dominant performances, gritty wins, and the emergence of a new generation of stars.

The Challenges of Following Coach K

For Scheyer, stepping into the shoes of Coach K was no easy feat. The weight of Duke’s storied basketball history loomed large over him. “There was no question about it. Stepping in after Coach K was always going to be a challenge,” Scheyer said in an interview reflecting on his transition to head coach. “But what Coach K instilled here was not just about winning games, it was about building a culture. That culture—focus, discipline, work ethic—is something I carry with me every day.”

Scheyer’s ability to maintain the Duke legacy while imprinting his own vision on the team has been key to his early success. His fast-paced, transition-heavy offense, combined with an emphasis on individual player development, has allowed the Blue Devils to evolve while remaining true to their core principles.

A Fresh Era: The Rise of Cooper Flagg

A major factor in Duke’s success during the 2025 tournament has been the emergence of freshman sensation Cooper Flagg. Flagg, widely considered one of the top high school recruits of his class, has lived up to the hype. His versatility, athleticism, and basketball IQ have made him a standout on both ends of the floor. Flagg’s ability to score, rebound, and defend has allowed Duke to adapt to various styles of play throughout the tournament.

“Cooper is a special player,” Scheyer said when asked about Flagg’s impact on the team. “He’s a complete player who is able to affect the game in so many ways. But beyond his talent, what impresses me most is his maturity. He’s just so focused and humble, and he’s really embraced what it means to be a Blue Devil.”

Flagg’s influence has been felt in crucial moments. His 22-point performance against Kentucky in the Sweet 16 was a perfect example of how he can take over a game when necessary. For Scheyer, it’s clear that Flagg’s presence has elevated the entire team, as his teammates feed off his energy and confidence.

Team Chemistry and Leadership

While Flagg is undoubtedly the star, Scheyer has made it clear that Duke’s success is a result of excellent team chemistry. In an era where individual accolades often take center stage, Scheyer’s ability to get his players to buy into the team-first mentality has been a standout feature of his coaching. Senior leadership, from players like Jeremy Roach and Kyle Filipowski, has been critical in guiding the younger players and setting the tone.

“Jeremy and Kyle are the heart and soul of this team,” Scheyer explained. “They’ve been through the ups and downs, and their leadership is invaluable. It’s not just about their play on the court, but how they hold everyone accountable off the court as well.”

Duke’s defense, another key component of their success, has also benefited from Scheyer’s philosophy. The Blue Devils have made a point to emphasize hustle, communication, and team defense, something that Duke teams have always been known for. Players like Derek Lively II and Tyrese Proctor have provided a defensive presence in the paint, with Lively’s shot-blocking ability being particularly impactful in the tournament.

Looking Ahead: The Final Four

Duke’s upcoming Final Four matchup against the Houston Cougars is a highly anticipated contest. The Cougars, led by coach Kelvin Sampson, are known for their stifling defense and physical style of play, which will challenge Duke’s offensive flow. Scheyer knows that in order to move on to the national championship game, his team will need to execute at a high level.

“Houston is a tough, physical team. They defend hard, they rebound, and they control the pace of the game. We need to be patient, take good shots, and play to our strengths,” Scheyer said about his team’s approach. “But it’s March Madness, and anything can happen. I know our guys are ready for the challenge.”

Scheyer’s ability to prepare his team for such a formidable opponent will be key to Duke’s success in the Final Four. His calm demeanor and focus will be crucial in keeping the team grounded as they face the biggest challenge of the season.

Coach K: The Legacy Continues

While Scheyer has been the face of Duke basketball since taking over, Coach K’s influence is still deeply felt at the program. Despite stepping down as head coach in 2022, Coach K has remained involved with the Blue Devils, offering advice, guidance, and support to Scheyer and the team.

During Duke’s run to the Final Four, Coach K has been watching closely, offering his insights during key moments. “Jon has done an incredible job. What he’s accomplished in such a short time is a testament to his character, his work ethic, and his understanding of the game,” Coach K said in a statement. “He’s taken the principles that we built here at Duke and made them his own, and that’s the mark of a great coach.”

Coach K’s leadership was the foundation for much of Duke’s success during his tenure, and his presence still looms large within the program. His impact can be seen not only in the team’s on-court success but also in the character and mentality of the players. The Blue Devils continue to play with the same passion, discipline, and tenacity that Coach K instilled in them over his 42-year career.

Coach K’s Thoughts on the 2025 Team

When asked about the 2025 team, Coach K expressed pride in how they’ve come together throughout the season. “The way they’ve played, the way they’ve come together as a unit—it’s been incredible to watch. But it’s not just about talent. This team has the right mentality. They believe in each other, and they’re willing to put in the work to get to where they are.”

Coach K acknowledged that while every team is different, the core values of Duke basketball remain unchanged. “We always emphasized defense, rebounding, and unselfishness on offense. What I see in this team is the same commitment to those principles. That’s what makes Duke basketball special.”

The Influence of Coach K on Scheyer

One of the most frequently asked questions about Jon Scheyer is how Coach K’s mentorship has shaped him as a coach. Scheyer has openly discussed the immense influence Coach K had on him, both as a player and as a coach. “Coach K taught me not just about basketball, but about leadership. He showed me what it means to lead with integrity, to hold people accountable, and to make every player feel important. Those lessons have shaped my coaching philosophy,” Scheyer explained.

As Scheyer looks to guide Duke to the national championship, the lessons from Coach K continue to resonate. The ability to manage high expectations, keep players grounded, and stay focused on the team’s ultimate goal has been crucial for Scheyer’s success.