Duke University men’s basketball has made a significant move in the transfer portal by securing the commitment of Cedric Coward
A versatile 6-foot-6 guard/forward from Washington State. Coward, who previously played for Eastern Washington and began his college career at Division III Willamette University, brings a wealth of experience and skill to the Blue Devils’ roster.
A Journey Through College Basketball
Coward’s basketball journey began at Willamette University, where he made an immediate impact by averaging 19.5 points per game and shooting an impressive 61% from the field. His performance earned him First Team All-Northwest Conference honors and the title of Northwest Conference Freshman of the Year. Seeking greater challenges, Coward transferred to Eastern Washington, where he continued to excel. In his sophomore season, he averaged 15.4 points and 6.7 rebounds per game, showcasing his scoring ability and versatility. His efficiency was notable, shooting 56.5% from the field and 38.3% from beyond the arc. Coward’s contributions were recognized with First Team All-Big Sky honors.
In May 2024, Coward transferred to Washington State, reuniting with his former coach, David Riley. During the 2024–25 season, Coward played five games before suffering a shoulder injury that sidelined him for the remainder of the season. Despite the limited playing time, his earlier performances demonstrated his potential to contribute significantly at the Division I level.
A Versatile Addition to Duke’s Roster
Duke’s head coach, Jon Scheyer, has been proactive in strengthening the Blue Devils’ roster, and Coward’s addition is a testament to that effort. Coward’s versatility allows him to play multiple positions, making him a valuable asset to the team. His ability to score, rebound, and facilitate offense will provide Duke with added depth and flexibility.
In addition to Coward, Duke has also secured commitments from highly touted freshmen, including Cameron and Cayden Boozer, and Nikolas Khamenia. These additions, combined with returning players like Caleb Foster and Isaiah Evans, position Duke as a formidable contender in the upcoming season.
Looking Ahead
As Duke prepares for the 2025–26 season, the integration of Cedric Coward into the team’s system will be crucial. His experience and skill set will complement the talents of the incoming freshmen and returning players. With a balanced roster and strong leadership, Duke aims to build on its legacy and compete at the highest level in college basketball.
Fans can look forward to seeing how Coward’s addition enhances Duke’s gameplay and contributes to the team’s success in the upcoming season.
