The Duke Blue Devils men’s basketball team has found itself back in the national spotlight thanks to a series of high-profile developments that signal both an exciting future and a reflection on a dominant past season. From individual player achievements to coaching shifts and upcoming matchups, Duke is continuing to show why it remains one of college basketball’s most prominent programs.
Cooper Flagg Steals the Show
Leading the headlines is freshman sensation Cooper Flagg, who capped off a dominant collegiate season by winning the 2025 ESPY Award for Best College Athlete (Men’s Sports). Flagg’s lone year in Durham was electric, earning him National Freshman of the Year honors, First Team All-American status, and ultimately the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. Now with the Dallas Mavericks, Flagg is already impressing in the Summer League. After a slow debut, he exploded for 31 points in his second game, showing the NBA world the same fire and skill that captivated Duke fans all season.
Flagg’s quick rise also underscores the growing phenomenon of elite prospects opting for one-year college stints over professional alternatives, with Duke reestablishing itself as the premier destination for NBA-bound talent.
Nolan Smith’s Coaching Leap
Another major development is the expected hiring of Nolan Smith—a Duke legend and current Memphis assistant—as head coach at Tennessee State University. This marks Smith’s first head coaching job and is a significant step in his coaching career. A national champion with Duke in 2010 and a former assistant under Mike Krzyzewski and Jon Scheyer, Smith’s move is seen as both a loss and a proud moment for the Duke coaching tree.
Roster Overhaul and Fresh Talent
The upcoming 2025–26 season will be Jon Scheyer’s fourth as head coach but notably, the first time the entire roster has been recruited and constructed under his leadership. With the departure of stars like Flagg, Tyrese Proctor, and Jared McCain to the NBA, Duke will turn to a new wave of talent.
Among the incoming players is Nik Khamenia, a 6’9” forward who’s been drawing attention for his performances with Switzerland’s U19 national team. His high IQ, court vision, and length make him a valuable addition. He joins Cayden Boozer, son of Duke great Carlos Boozer, in what could be one of the most exciting freshman duos in the country.
NIL, Transfer Portal & the Changing Game
Off the court, Duke continues to adapt to the evolving landscape of college athletics. Fan discussions and podcasts have focused on the university’s approach to NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals and the transfer portal, both of which have transformed how elite programs build and maintain rosters. Scheyer and his staff are leaning into Duke’s national brand and alumni network to stay ahead.
A Big Game on the Horizon
Duke has also announced a high-profile early-season game against Texas in the inaugural Dick Vitale Invitational in Charlotte on November 4. The matchup honors legendary broadcaster Dick Vitale and will serve as a major early test for Duke’s young squads
With a Final Four run behind them and an infusion of new talent ahead, the Blue Devils remain firmly in the national conversation. As the program enters its next chapter, the spotlight will stay on Durham.
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