Duke Blue Devils Coach Jon Scheyer Makes History, Wins Prestigious ACC Coach of the Year Award
Jon Scheyer, head coach of the Duke Blue Devils, has cemented his place in history by being named the 2025 Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) Coach of the Year. The award is a testament to Scheyer’s leadership, dedication, and ability to navigate the challenges of coaching a high-profile program like Duke, especially in his second season at the helm.
Scheyer, who took over from the legendary Coach Mike Krzyzewski after his retirement in 2022, faced immense pressure from the start. The task of following in the footsteps of a coach who led Duke to five national championships and countless accolades was daunting, to say the least. However, Scheyer’s remarkable ability to adapt, inspire, and develop his players has made him a worthy recipient of the prestigious ACC Coach of the Year award.
The 2024-2025 season has been a monumental one for Duke, with Scheyer leading the Blue Devils to an outstanding record in one of the toughest conferences in college basketball. Despite several key players leaving for the NBA and the departure of veterans, Scheyer has managed to cultivate a team that’s both talented and cohesive. Under his guidance, Duke has demonstrated a blend of discipline, skill, and teamwork that has returned them to the upper echelons of college basketball.
One of the standout aspects of Scheyer’s coaching has been his emphasis on player development. While many young programs rely heavily on their freshman class, Scheyer has skillfully developed his roster, turning potential into production. His ability to get the best out of his players, particularly the freshmen, has been a hallmark of his tenure. Players such as Derek Lively II and Tyrese Proctor have flourished under Scheyer’s tutelage, contributing significantly to the team’s success.
In addition to player development, Scheyer’s tactical acumen has been crucial. He has been able to tweak the Blue Devils’ playstyle to fit the strengths of his team while maintaining the tradition of a strong defensive identity. This balance has been key to Duke’s dominance in both the ACC and on the national stage. Whether it’s executing a defensive game plan or making critical adjustments in tight games, Scheyer has proven to be a strategic mastermind capable of managing high-pressure situations.
Scheyer’s impact goes beyond the X’s and O’s of basketball. His leadership and ability to foster a positive team culture have been vital in the success of the program. His players consistently speak highly of his approachability, honesty, and the belief he instills in them. He has created a culture where accountability and commitment to excellence are non-negotiable, and that has translated into the team’s on-court performance.
The ACC Coach of the Year award reflects not only Scheyer’s success this season but also the immense promise he brings to the future of Duke basketball. At just 37 years old, Scheyer has already proven that he can handle the pressure of being the head coach of a storied program. His leadership has not only guided the Blue Devils back to prominence but has also set the foundation for continued success in the years to come.
Jon Scheyer’s achievement in winning the 2025 ACC Coach of the Year is a milestone in what promises to be an illustrious coaching career. As Duke continues to compete for championships, Scheyer’s legacy is being built on the pillars of hard work, leadership, and a commitment to excellence both on and off the court.