Duke Basketball Recruiting Update: Blue Devils in Final Seven for Five-Star Forward Miikka Muurinen…

Duke Basketball Recruiting Update: Blue Devils in Final Seven for Five-Star Forward Miikka Muurinen

 

As the college basketball recruiting season intensifies, Duke remains firmly in the mix for top talent, and the latest development confirms the Blue Devils’ continued focus on assembling a powerhouse Class of 2026. Five-star forward Miikka Muurinen, one of the most sought-after prospects in the nation, has officially narrowed his list of schools to seven—and Duke has made the cut.

The 6-foot-9 Finnish phenom announced his final list over the weekend, naming Duke, Kentucky, Kansas, UConn, Michigan State, Baylor, and Oregon as the programs still in the running for his commitment. Muurinen, currently playing at Sunrise Christian Academy in Kansas, has been turning heads with his versatile skill set, smooth perimeter game, and strong defensive instincts. He’s ranked among the top 10 prospects in the 2026 class by multiple recruiting services.

Duke’s inclusion in Muurinen’s final seven comes as no surprise to those closely following his recruitment. Head coach Jon Scheyer and his staff have made the forward a top priority, attending his games and maintaining consistent contact throughout the summer evaluation period. The Blue Devils are known for developing long, skilled forwards with NBA potential—something Muurinen has openly said appeals to him.

“Duke has always been a dream school,” Muurinen told recruiting outlet 247Sports. “Their history, the players they’ve developed, and the way they play—it’s exciting to even be considered.”

Scheyer, entering his third year at the helm of the Blue Devils, has made it clear that he wants to continue Duke’s legacy of recruiting and developing elite talent. With a focus on players who bring both two-way versatility and high basketball IQ, Muurinen fits the mold perfectly.

Muurinen’s ability to stretch the floor, handle the ball, and guard multiple positions makes him a potential game-changer at the college level. His international experience with Finland’s national junior teams has also helped him stand out as one of the most polished forwards in the class.

Duke’s 2026 recruiting efforts are already gaining momentum, with the program actively pursuing several other five-star talents. While no commitments have been secured yet for the class, the coaching staff is laying the groundwork for what could become another elite haul. Securing Muurinen would be a major statement, especially as competition stiffens from blue blood rivals like Kentucky and Kansas.

The next phase in Muurinen’s recruitment will likely include official visits this fall. While no dates have been announced yet, Duke is expected to host him in Durham during the early stages of the upcoming high school season.

For now, the Blue Devils are well-positioned—and very much alive—in the race for Miikka Muurinen, as the battle for the Class of 2026 heats up.