Reigan Richardson and Andrew McAdorey will represent Duke as 2024–25 senior student-athletes, highlighting excellence in women’s basketball and men’s lacrosse leadership roles.
Duke University has named women’s basketball guard Reigan Richardson and men’s lacrosse captain Andrew McAdorey as its 2024–25 senior student-athletes, honoring their achievements both in competition and in the classroom. This designation highlights two of Duke’s most prominent leaders—athletes who have not only delivered elite performances for their programs, but have also embodied the values of commitment, resilience, and leadership that define Duke Athletics.
Both Richardson and McAdorey have made indelible marks on their respective sports and are poised to finish their college careers as two of the most respected student-athletes on campus.
Reigan Richardson: Duke Women’s Basketball’s Steady Star
Reigan Richardson, a 5-foot-11 senior guard, has been a consistent presence for Duke women’s basketball since transferring from Georgia following her freshman season. Over the past three seasons under head coach Kara Lawson, Richardson has developed into a cornerstone of the Blue Devils’ backcourt and one of the most trusted leaders on the team.
She averaged double figures in scoring across her junior and senior years, earning All-ACC Honorable Mention in 2023–24. A dynamic scorer, Richardson is known for her smooth midrange jumper, perimeter shooting, and ability to defend multiple positions. But it’s her intangibles—her communication, calm under pressure, and tireless work ethic—that truly set her apart.
“Reigan has grown tremendously since she arrived at Duke,” said Lawson. “She’s become a leader who sets the tone every day in practice and brings toughness and maturity to every game.”
Leadership by Example
Richardson has embraced a mentorship role with younger players, helping guide underclassmen through the rigors of Division I basketball. Known for her calm demeanor and thoughtful leadership, she frequently meets with teammates outside of practice, offering advice and support.
She’s also been active in Duke’s Leadership Development and Student-Athlete Enrichment programs, speaking at panels and serving as a mentor in the CAPS Peer Advisory Program, where student-athletes support one another in balancing academics, athletics, and personal challenges.
“I’ve learned that leadership isn’t always about being the loudest,” Richardson said. “It’s about being there for your team, being consistent, and doing the little things right every day.”
Off-Court Excellence
A psychology major with aspirations of becoming a sports psychologist or mental health advocate, Richardson is deeply committed to academic success and service. She’s made the ACC Honor Roll multiple times and was a 2024 nominee for the WBCA Good Works Team, recognizing community service efforts.
Richardson has worked with local Durham youth through basketball clinics, reading initiatives, and mental health advocacy workshops. Her senior project focused on the relationship between athlete mental health and team performance, drawing praise from faculty and athletic department leaders alike.
Andrew McAdorey: Lacrosse Captain and Midfield Maestro
On the men’s lacrosse side, Andrew McAdorey enters his senior year as one of the most accomplished and decorated players in the country. A former five-star recruit and the top-ranked midfielder in the 2021 class, McAdorey has lived up to the hype—and then some—during his time at Duke.
A two-time All-American and 2024 Tewaaraton Award finalist, McAdorey has been the engine of the Blue Devils’ offense, quarterbacking one of the nation’s most explosive units. His ability to dodge, distribute, and defend has made him a matchup nightmare for opponents and a critical piece of Duke’s national title runs.
McAdorey led the team in assists in 2024 and ranked among the top 10 in the country in points by a midfielder. But his influence goes far beyond statistics.
“He’s the heart of our team,” said head coach John Danowski. “He’s a warrior who plays every possession like it’s his last. He demands excellence from himself and from everyone around him.”
From Long Island to Durham: A Lacrosse Journey
A native of Garden City, New York, McAdorey came to Duke with national expectations after leading St. Anthony’s High School to a state title. He was named the USA Lacrosse National Player of the Year in 2021 and was widely considered the most complete midfielder in his class.
At Duke, he immediately earned playing time as a freshman, demonstrating maturity, tactical awareness, and grit. By his sophomore year, he was wearing the captain’s armband, leading film sessions, speaking in team meetings, and guiding one of the youngest rosters in the ACC.
“He holds everyone accountable, including himself,” said senior defender Kenny Brower. “He’s not just our leader—he’s our standard.”
Balancing the Load
McAdorey’s commitment to academic excellence is equally impressive. A Public Policy major, he has been on the Dean’s List and is pursuing a certificate in Markets & Management Studies. His interests include sports business and player representation, and he has interned with a Durham-based sports consulting firm during summer breaks.
He’s also an active member of Duke’s Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) and helped lead Duke’s annual Mental Health Awareness Week, speaking publicly about the pressures of being a Division I athlete.
“I want to help change the culture around mental health in sports,” McAdorey said. “Being strong doesn’t mean you have to be silent.”
Why This Honor Matters
Being named a senior student-athlete at Duke isn’t just about performance—it’s about character, academic achievement, and leadership. Each year, Duke Athletics selects two student-athletes who exemplify what it means to be a “Duke Student-Athlete” across all dimensions.
For Richardson and McAdorey, this recognition reflects years of dedication to their sports, their teammates, and their university.
“This is one of the most prestigious honors we have,” said Vice President and Director of Athletics Nina King. “Reigan and Andrew have represented Duke with integrity, passion, and excellence in every way. They are outstanding leaders and ambassadors.”
Impact on Future Blue Devils
Both Richardson and McAdorey understand that their legacy isn’t just about wins and stats—it’s about setting a foundation for the next generation. As senior leaders, they are committed to leaving their programs better than they found them.
Richardson has taken on a mentoring role with Duke’s young guards, including incoming five-star freshman Amari Lawson. She’s also helped lead off-season workouts, sharing the nuances of Kara Lawson’s system and building chemistry off the court.
McAdorey, meanwhile, is already laying the groundwork for a seamless transition in the midfield, working closely with underclassmen like Dylan Maguire and Eli Stackpole to prepare them for expanded roles.
“We don’t just play for now,” Richardson said. “We play to build something that lasts.”
Looking Ahead
With one final season ahead, both Richardson and McAdorey are laser-focused on winning championships. Duke women’s basketball is returning several key pieces from last year’s Sweet 16 run, while men’s lacrosse is reloaded for another Final Four push.
More importantly, both student-athletes are committed to finishing strong in the classroom, growing as leaders, and using their platforms to create meaningful change.
“Being a student-athlete at Duke means striving for greatness in everything you do,” McAdorey said. “We’re not done yet.”
