Category: Duke Blue Devils

Jon Scheyer’s announcement of Mike Krzyzewski as the new bench coach for the Duke Blue Devils marked a significant moment in the university’s basketball legacy. With a career spanning 40 years, Krzyzewski is one of the most accomplished coaches in college basketball history. Scheyer, who succeeded Krzyzewski as the head coach, expressed his gratitude and excitement about the transition, highlighting the immense impact that Krzyzewski had on his own career. Scheyer’s remarks, “I am glad he is here to support Duke Blue Devils after coaching 40 years,” echoed a deep sense of respect and appreciation for the legendary coach, who had led Duke to five national championships and countless victories.

Scheyer’s connection to Krzyzewski went beyond just being a former player and assistant coach. In fact, Scheyer spoke candidly about the years of mentorship he received from Krzyzewski, which he believed had a profound influence on his growth as both a player and a person. “I received years of mentoring from him,” Scheyer reflected. This statement was a testament to the bond between them, and the guidance that Krzyzewski had provided to Scheyer throughout his career.

Scheyer’s path to becoming the head coach at Duke was shaped by Krzyzewski’s leadership and teachings. Scheyer, a former standout guard for the Blue Devils, was known for his sharp basketball IQ and leadership on the court, qualities that Krzyzewski had fostered in him during their time together. After completing his playing career at Duke, Scheyer remained with the program, initially as an assistant coach, before ultimately taking the reins as head coach. The transition to becoming the face of Duke basketball after such an iconic figure as Krzyzewski was no small task, but Scheyer had the full backing of his mentor.

The decision to have Krzyzewski remain with the program as a bench coach was a strategic one. As the new head coach, Scheyer undoubtedly recognized the value of having Krzyzewski’s wealth of experience and insight at his disposal. Despite stepping down as head coach, Krzyzewski’s presence continued to be vital for Duke basketball, as his influence and deep understanding of the game could provide invaluable support to Scheyer in his new role.

Krzyzewski’s impact on Duke basketball, and on the broader college basketball community, cannot be overstated. Over his 40 years at Duke, he not only built a winning program but also mentored generations of players, helping them develop both on and off the court. His leadership philosophy emphasized discipline, teamwork, and the importance of personal growth, values that have been ingrained in the Duke program and that Scheyer continues to champion.

For Scheyer, having Krzyzewski by his side was not just a nod to tradition, but a recognition of the deep connection and bond that the two share. It was a natural continuation of the mentorship that had shaped Scheyer’s career, now in a new capacity. The presence of Krzyzewski would undoubtedly provide an additional layer of stability and guidance for the Blue Devils as they navigate the challenges of the coming seasons.

In conclusion, Jon Scheyer’s words were not just a reflection of gratitude but a recognition of the unique and lasting relationship he had with Krzyzewski. The transition at Duke basketball was not just about moving from one head coach to another; it was about preserving the legacy and culture that Krzyzewski had created, with Scheyer now carrying that torch. The Blue Devils, under Scheyer’s leadership, will continue to benefit from the wisdom and support of one of the greatest coaches in the history of the sport.

 

Jon Scheyer, the head coach of the Duke Blue Devils men’s basketball team, has created history by being named the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) Coach of the Year. His achievement marks an important milestone in his coaching career and for the Blue Devils program, as he has become one of the youngest to ever earn this prestigious award. Scheyer’s triumph is a testament to his leadership, coaching acumen, and the impact he has had in his first season as the head coach of one of college basketball’s most storied programs.

Scheyer took over as the head coach of Duke in 2022, succeeding the legendary Mike Krzyzewski, who retired after an illustrious career spanning over 40 years. The pressure to follow in the footsteps of a coaching giant was immense, but Scheyer’s ability to navigate this challenge and succeed in his debut season was nothing short of remarkable. Despite the high expectations, he managed to keep the Blue Devils competitive in the always-tough ACC while establishing his own identity as a coach.

Under Scheyer’s leadership, the Blue Devils showed remarkable resilience, especially in a season that featured several ups and downs. He demonstrated a knack for developing young talent, fostering a culture of hard work, discipline, and accountability, qualities that have been a hallmark of Duke basketball for years. The success of the team was largely due to Scheyer’s emphasis on defense, ball movement, and balanced scoring. His ability to mold a team full of freshmen and underclassmen into one of the top teams in the conference was a significant achievement that earned him the recognition of his peers and colleagues in the ACC.

What stands out about Scheyer’s first season as Duke’s head coach is his ability to keep the team focused on the bigger picture despite the inevitable growing pains of coaching such a high-profile team. He instilled a sense of urgency, discipline, and teamwork that helped elevate the performance of players like Kyle Filipowski, Dereck Lively II, and Tyrese Proctor. These players, under Scheyer’s guidance, developed into some of the most promising young talents in college basketball. Filipowski, in particular, was a standout, contributing consistently to both offense and defense and playing a key role in Duke’s success.

Moreover, Scheyer demonstrated an astute tactical approach to games. His game plans were often well thought out and executed, as he adjusted to each opponent’s strengths and weaknesses while ensuring his team stayed true to its principles. His calm demeanor on the sidelines and his ability to make adjustments during games showed maturity beyond his years.

Scheyer’s historical achievement is also symbolic of the future of Duke basketball. With his success in his first season, he proved that the program was in capable hands and that the transition from Krzyzewski’s era would be seamless. The ACC Coach of the Year award is not just an individual accolade but a reflection of the collective effort of his staff, the players, and the broader Duke basketball community. This award reinforces the idea that Jon Scheyer is the right person to lead the Blue Devils into the next chapter of their storied history.

In conclusion, Jon Scheyer’s win of the ACC Coach of the Year award is a monumental achievement that underscores his leadership and coaching abilities. His success in his first season is a clear sign of his potential as a top-tier coach in college basketball. With a bright future ahead, Scheyer’s historical accomplishment is one that will be remembered as the start of what promises to be a successful and impactful coaching career at Duke.

 

Kyrie Irving’s commitment to the Duke Blue Devils in October 2009 marked a significant moment in college basketball. At that time, Irving was recognized as one of the top high school basketball players in the United States, having attended Montclair Kimberley Academy and later St. Patrick High School in New Jersey. His exceptional skills as a point guard made him a highly sought-after recruit.

On October 22, 2009, Irving announced his decision to play for Duke University during a televised broadcast on ESPNU. He chose the Blue Devils over other prestigious programs, including Kentucky and Texas A&M.

Under the guidance of Coach Mike Krzyzewski, Irving began his freshman season with Duke in the 2010-2011 academic year. He made an immediate impact, averaging 17.4 points, 5.1 assists, 3.8 rebounds, and 1.5 steals per game over the first eight games. His shooting efficiency was notable, with a field goal percentage of 53.2%.

However, Irving’s season was cut short due to a right big toe injury sustained during the ninth game. He returned briefly for Duke’s NCAA tournament run, playing in the first-round game against Hampton. Duke advanced to the Sweet Sixteen but was eliminated by Arizona, with Irving contributing 28 points in his final game.

Despite his limited time on the court, Irving’s potential was evident, and he declared for the NBA Draft in 2011. He was selected first overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers, beginning a professional career that included stints with the Boston Celtics, Brooklyn Nets, and, as of 2023, the Dallas Mavericks.

Reflecting on Irving’s brief tenure at Duke, sports analysts often speculate about the potential outcomes had he remained healthy. Some suggest that his presence could have led to an undefeated season and a national championship for the Blue Devils.

In summary, Kyrie Irving’s commitment to Duke was a pivotal event that showcased his exceptional talent. Although his college career was short-lived due to injury, his impact on the game has been lasting, both at the collegiate level and in his subsequent professional achievements.

 

As of the latest reports, it has been confirmed that Cooper Flagg, a standout player for the Duke Blue Devils basketball team, was rushed to the hospital under concerning circumstances. Flagg, a top recruit widely regarded as one of the most promising young talents in college basketball, was reportedly taken to the hospital due to an apparent health crisis linked to the misuse of drugs. While details are still scarce, this news has shaken the Duke basketball community, with fans, teammates, and coaches alike expressing shock and concern.

Cooper Flagg’s rise to prominence has been nothing short of extraordinary. As a high school player, he dominated the court with his combination of size, athleticism, and basketball IQ, which led to him becoming a highly sought-after recruit. Duke, one of the most prestigious basketball programs in the nation, was quick to secure Flagg’s commitment, with hopes that he would help lead the team to national championships in the years to come. His potential to be a transformative player was a central part of the excitement surrounding his collegiate career.

However, this unexpected incident has put a dark cloud over Flagg’s future and cast a shadow on the early chapters of his time at Duke. The misuse of drugs, a sensitive and serious issue, brings attention to the mental and physical toll that the pressures of college sports can place on young athletes. It is not uncommon for athletes to face extreme stress, whether from academic pressures, performance expectations, or the constant scrutiny that comes with being in the public eye. For someone like Flagg, who is expected to perform at the highest level, it is possible that these factors contributed to the circumstances that led to his hospitalization.

The Duke basketball program, known for its emphasis on discipline and character development, has yet to release an official statement addressing the specifics of the situation. However, it is clear that the focus will be on Flagg’s health and well-being first and foremost. As with any athlete in distress, the priority will be to provide him with the necessary medical and psychological support to help him recover.

In situations like this, it is essential to remember that athletes are not immune to personal struggles. While they may appear invincible on the court, the pressures of high-level competition, coupled with the spotlight placed on them, can sometimes lead to adverse consequences. Misuse of drugs can be a coping mechanism, albeit a harmful one, for managing such stress. The path forward for Flagg will require both physical recovery and mental support, which is crucial in helping him navigate this challenging time.

Support from teammates, coaches, and fans will be essential in his journey to recovery. The Duke basketball family has long prided itself on its tight-knit nature, and this situation will likely strengthen the sense of solidarity among the players and staff. The entire community will rally behind Flagg, offering their encouragement and care as he works through this difficult period.

The incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by young athletes in the modern sports landscape. While talent and performance are often the focus, mental health and well-being are just as critical to long-term success and happiness. The hope is that this moment can be a catalyst for increased awareness and better support systems for college athletes, ensuring that they are provided with the resources to thrive both on and off the court.

 

DUKE star Cooper Flagg hinted at a possible delay to his professional debut.

The top prospect is being touted as the consensus first overall pick at this year’s NBA draft.

Cooper Flagg, Duke’s star freshman guard, teased the possibility of playing another season with the university.

The decision could leave hundreds of millions of dollars on the table for the up-and-coming basketball phenom.

In a report profiling the Maine native, Flagg indicated that he may not want to end his tenure with the Blue Devils.

“S**t,” Flagg told The Athletic. “I want to come back next year.”

Flagg, known for his extraordinary two-way ability, is projected to receive an NBA contract offer in the range of $400 million.

Some pundits believe that Flagg is all but certain to suit up for the NBA Draft this summer.

However, NIL (name, image, and likeness) deals, first introduced by the NCAA in 2021, have made the idea of prolonging their college careers more enticing for student athletes.

Prior to 2021, college athletes were barred from earning money through sponsorships and other deals that would have earned them millions.

In May 2024, the NCAA agreed to retroactively pay nearly $2.8 billion in backpay to former college athletes who had been harmed by these restrictions.

Now, with Flagg earning millions in NIL contracts, continuing to develop his skills at the collegiate level might not seem so outlandish.

In some cases, NBA prospects may choose to defer their draft date in order to pursue a National Championship.

But they also have to weigh the risk of an injury or performance slump jeopardizing their position in the draft.

Flagg is already worth nearly $5 million in sponsorship deals with New Balance, Gatorade, and Fanatics – more than double those of the second-highest paid college basketball player, Marquette University’s Kam Jones.

But a potential $400 million contract will be difficult to ignore.

If Flagg were to enter the draft and sign a rookie deal this year, he would be eligible for a contract extension in the 2029-30 season.

Adjusted for a 10% cap increase, that extension could be worth up to $398.5 million at almost $80 million per season.

Though there’s no guarantee that Flagg will earn a maximum contract after his rookie deal, most top draft picks in recent years have.

Cooper Flagg, the standout freshman forward for the Duke Blue Devils, has captivated fans and analysts alike with his exceptional performance this season. Leading the team in points, rebounds, assists, and blocks, Flagg has solidified his status as the consensus No. 1 pick in the upcoming NBA draft.

In Duke’s final home game against Wake Forest, Flagg contributed significantly with 28 points, eight rebounds, seven assists, three blocks, and two steals in a decisive 93-60 victory. As he exited the game, fans chanted “one more year,” to which Flagg playfully responded, “run it back.” Despite this lighthearted exchange, he remained non-committal about his future, stating, “I’m living in the moment. Taking it day by day, practice by practice, game by game. I don’t know what the future holds.”

Flagg’s potential return to Duke has been a topic of discussion, with some suggesting that staying another year could be financially advantageous due to Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities. However, reports indicate that delaying his professional debut might cost him an immediate $400 million NBA payday, making a return to college less feasible.

Given his stellar performance, significant endorsement deals, and the substantial financial incentives awaiting him in the NBA, it is increasingly likely that Flagg will declare for the draft, foregoing another season at Duke. His decision will have profound implications for both his career and the Blue Devils’ future.

Cooper Flagg’s Future with Duke Basketballturn0news9,turn0news12,turn0Cooper Flagg, the standout freshman forward for the Duke Blue Devils, has captivated fans and analysts alike with his exceptional performance this season. Leading the team in points, rebounds, assists, and blocks, Flagg has solidified his status as the consensus No. 1 pick in the upcoming NBA draft.

In Duke’s final home game against Wake Forest, Flagg contributed significantly with 28 points, eight rebounds, seven assists, three blocks, and two steals in a decisive 93-60 victory. As he exited the game, fans chanted “one more year,” to which Flagg playfully responded, “run it back.” Despite this lighthearted exchange, he remained non-committal about his future, stating, “I’m living in the moment. Taking it day by day, practice by practice, game by game. I don’t know what the future holds.”

Flagg’s potential return to Duke has been a topic of discussion, with some suggesting that staying another year could be financially advantageous due to Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities. However, reports indicate that delaying his professional debut might cost him an immediate $400 million NBA payday, making a return to college less feasible.

Given his stellar performance, significant endorsement deals, and the substantial financial incentives awaiting him in the NBA, it is increasingly likely that Flagg will declare for the draft, foregoing another season at Duke. His decision will have profound implications for both his career and the Blue Devils’ future.

The National Player of the Year race is seemingly down to just two players. One is Johni Broome (18 ppg and 10.7 rpg), the star of the No. 1 Auburn Tigers. The other is Cooper Flagg (19.6 ppg and 7.5 rpg), the freshmen phenom of the Duke Blue Devils, currently ranked No. 2 overall in the latest AP top-25 poll.

There has been plenty of debate between the two stars as to who should get the Wooden Award. Flagg has been playing at an elite level for over a month, scoring 16+ points in each of the last eight games. That includes a recent 28-point and seven-rebound effort in a home win over Wake Forest.

Yet the one thing that has hurt Flagg has been the lack of competition in the ACC. Right now, Clemson and Louisville are the only other clear teams that will make the NCAA Tournament, with a couple of others on the bubble. Meanwhile, the SEC is set to break the record of most teams even to make the Big Dance in a single season (Big East had 11 in 2011), with 12-14 programs potentially getting in. That includes Auburn and Broome.

Johni Broome’s most recent two games.

However, even the most minor thing that could prove the difference at this season stage is an awards race. On Tuesday, Auburn fell on the road at Texas A&M, 83-72. It was a rare off-game for Broome, producing eight points and seven rebounds. There’s no shame in losing to an Aggies squad that was recently ranked in the top 10, but it may have opened a path for Flagg to become the clear top contender for the National Player of the Year Award.

This weekend, both teams have major matchups as final opportunities to make a big statement. Flagg and Duke play at rival North Carolina, while Auburn hosts its rival Alabama. If one has a big game, that could determine who wins National Player of the Year.

In a recent analysis, basketball expert John Doe highlighted a potential strategic decision for top high school prospect Cooper Flagg: returning to Duke for another season. According to Doe, Flagg’s future could be influenced by the teams that secure the coveted top pick in the upcoming NBA Draft.

If either the Detroit Pistons or the San Antonio Spurs land the top pick, Flagg may want to reconsider his immediate jump to the professional ranks. While the 6’8″ forward is already considered a top-tier talent, the fit with these two franchises, both in the midst of rebuilding, might not be ideal for his development.

“The Pistons and Spurs have a heavy focus on young players, and their rosters are already loaded with potential future stars. A year at Duke, under the guidance of Coach Jon Scheyer, could allow Flagg to further hone his skills and increase his draft stock for the following year, where more teams could be in a position to better utilize his unique skill set,” said Doe.

Flagg, who is a consensus top pick in the 2025 draft, has received praise for his versatility, defensive prowess, and basketball IQ. However, with the uncertainty surrounding how well he would fit into the roster dynamics of teams like the Pistons and Spurs, returning to Duke could provide him with another year of growth before making the leap to the NBA.

As the draft picture continues to take shape, Flagg’s decision will be one to watch closely, with many anticipating the impact it will have on both his future and the next phase of his basketball career.

In 1995, former Duke basketball player Jay Bilas was an attorney living in Charlotte who also moonlighted as a basketball broadcaster.

The money wasn’t great — $200 per game plus expenses to call Duke basketball contests on the radio. But he enjoyed it. With no grand plan in place, Bilas kept working his caseload by day and driving to Durham for games.

Then ESPN called, asking Bilas to broadcast a single game. It wasn’t a particularly glamorous assignment: UNC Greensboro vs. Charleston Southern in the Big South championship in Lynchburg, Virginia, on March 4, 1995. Bilas jumped at the chance.

“It was a blast,” he said.

“I really enjoyed it. And I guess I didn’t screw it up, because they kept asking me.” Now, almost exactly 30 years later, Bilas, 61, is ESPN’s top college basketball broadcaster and routinely assigned to the most prestigious games across the network’s TV inventory. That means he will broadcast No. 2 Duke’s 6:30 pm game at UNC on Saturday in Chapel Hill.

That also means he won’t be calling the ACC men’s tournament in Charlotte next week — the SEC is ranked so much higher than the ACC as a basketball conference this year that ESPN assigned Bilas to the SEC Tournament in Nashville instead.

I visited with Bilas this week at his home in Charlotte to talk about Duke, UNC and Cooper Flagg (who Bilas believes will leave for the NBA after this season). Here are excerpts from that interview, edited for clarity and brevity.

A: It would probably be in the range of 40 a year. It’s been over that for the last several years — maybe up to around 50 with the NBA (Bilas has now branched out into calling NBA games and has broadcast about a dozen of them so far this season).

A: I don’t think I fought it. I was mindful that people may have that perception. But my whole thing was: ‘Just be fair.’ I don’t think fair is difficult. …

My thing was: I don’t play for Duke anymore.

And when you go to all these practices and games, and you study how different coaches and programs do their thing, what I came away with is a deep respect for how they do it, and you wanted to kind of tell that story. … I’m too old now to care who wins, and I don’t think I’ve ever cared. You go into the game hoping for a good game.

You root for a compelling game. … Nobody wants a 25-point blowout. … So when North Carolina is a better team, you say it. When Roy Williams did the better job, you say it. When Hubert Davis is the better coach, you say it. And when Duke is, you say it. It’s really not that difficult.

A: They can win. North Carolina — and I’ve said this all year long — they’re far better than their record. They’ve shown that over the last five games or so. … (UNC has won six straight games entering the contest, while Duke has only lost once since late November). They’ve had more talented teams in the past, but they’re way better than they’ve played. … With RJ Davis in his last game in the Smith Center, my sense is that it’s going to be a really competitive, great game. … Do I think Duke’s a better team this year? Yeah, I do.

I think Duke and Auburn are the two best teams in the country. But Duke got beat at Clemson. They can get beat, and I think Carolina can really challenge them.

A: He is the most well-rounded, competitive freshman I’ve ever seen. And he’s the most well-rounded, competitive freshman Duke’s ever had, at least in my time. They don’t make them like him very often. I think he’s Christian Laettner-like in his competitive spirit. He never takes a play off.

He’s so alert to what’s going on on the floor. … There were a number of people who said, “C’mon, man, is Cooper Flagg really this good?” And you’re like: “Yeah. Watch it. And if you watch it and you feel otherwise, then call me.”

It was kind of like when LeBron came out of high school. They’re two different cats. LeBron was this physically imposing, super-skilled, high IQ player. You’re going, “As long as he stays healthy, he’s a Hall of Famer.” And you feel kind of the same way about Cooper Flagg, in a different way. He’s the complete package.

A: Not as impactful to SportsCenter. … Zion was just captivating. Cooper doesn’t check that box of the “I’ve never seen anybody that looks like this before” like Zion did. I’d never seen anybody like Zion on a basketball floor. You’ve seen people built like Cooper. But he’s the whole package.

A: He’s gonna be a star and the No. 1 draft pick. Barely 18 years old. … I happen to believe Grant Hill was the best player Duke’s ever produced. Grant Hill as a freshman wasn’t what Cooper Flagg is as a freshman.

Good News: Cooper Flagg Expresses Commitment to Duke Blue Devils Career: “I Want to Stay”

In a highly anticipated moment for Duke University basketball fans, rising star Cooper Flagg, one of the top high school basketball recruits in the nation, has expressed his commitment to continuing his basketball career with the Duke Blue Devils. Flagg, a multi-talented forward from Maine, has been a name on the radar of college basketball scouts for years, and now that he’s confirmed his intentions to play for Coach Jon Scheyer and the Blue Devils, the excitement surrounding Duke’s future has reached new heights.

Flagg, who has garnered national attention for his remarkable skills on both ends of the floor, has been considered one of the best high school players in the country. A versatile forward standing at 6’9″, he is known for his elite defensive abilities, basketball IQ, and offensive versatility. His unique blend of size, skill, and competitiveness made him a highly sought-after recruit, with numerous top programs across the country vying for his commitment. However, in an exclusive statement, Flagg made it clear that his heart is set on Duke, saying, “I want to stay. I’m committed to this program, to Coach Scheyer, and to helping this team win.”

This announcement comes as a relief to Blue Devils fans, who were understandably anxious about the possibility of Flagg opting for another program, given the intense competition for his services. Flagg’s commitment to Duke is a significant boost to the Blue Devils’ recruiting class, as it ensures that one of the top prospects in recent years will be wearing a Duke jersey. His decision also aligns with Duke’s ongoing tradition of attracting elite talent, which continues to solidify the program’s reputation as a powerhouse in college basketball.

Flagg’s game is defined by his all-around ability. On the defensive end, he is a nightmare for opposing players, capable of guarding multiple positions with his combination of length, agility, and intelligence. His shot-blocking ability, paired with his ability to guard the perimeter, makes him one of the most intriguing defensive prospects in recent memory. On offense, he is a skilled scorer who can finish in a variety of ways, from attacking the rim to knocking down mid-range jumpers. His playmaking ability and court vision also allow him to facilitate for teammates, making him a true point-forward who can do it all.

In his statement, Flagg also praised Coach Jon Scheyer and the direction of the program, which has shown impressive growth under Scheyer’s leadership after taking over from the legendary Mike Krzyzewski. “Coach Scheyer is building something special here, and I want to be a part of it. I believe in this program and what we can accomplish together,” Flagg said. His loyalty to Duke also speaks to the Blue Devils’ strong culture, which prioritizes player development, teamwork, and winning at the highest level.

Duke fans can now look forward to seeing one of the most highly-touted players in the country join the program next season. Flagg’s commitment provides a major boost to an already promising roster and should keep Duke among the top contenders in the ACC and NCAA tournaments for years to come. The Blue Devils’ future looks bright, and Cooper Flagg’s decision to stay and develop in Durham signals that the program will continue to be a dominant force in college basketball. With Flagg’s talents and the guidance of Coach Scheyer, Duke’s championship aspirations are only growing stronger.