DURHAM, N.C. —The Duke Blue Devils Announce Double Signing as Vanessa de Jesus Continues Roster Rebuild….

DURHAM, N.C. —The Duke Blue Devils Announce Double Signing as Vanessa de Jesus Continues Roster Rebuild….

 

DURHAM, N.C. — The Duke Blue Devils women’s basketball program has taken a major step forward in its ongoing roster rebuild under star guard Vanessa de Jesus, announcing the double signing of two highly-touted recruits set to join the team for the upcoming season.

In a statement released Monday, head coach Kara Lawson revealed that forwards Amara Johnson and Kaylee Simmons have officially committed to Duke, signaling a renewed era of competitiveness for the Blue Devils as they aim to climb back into the national spotlight.

Amara Johnson, a 6-foot-2 athletic forward from Chicago, Illinois, is ranked among ESPN’s top 50 recruits in the 2025 class. Known for her shot-blocking ability, rebounding tenacity, and fast break execution, Johnson brings both size and versatility to Duke’s frontcourt. She averaged 17.8 points, 11.2 rebounds, and 3.5 blocks per game in her senior season at Whitney Young High School. Her physicality and court awareness are expected to make an immediate impact.

Kaylee Simmons, a 5-foot-11 wing out of Richmond, Virginia, has been described as one of the most dynamic scorers in the Southeast. She posted an impressive 24.6 points per game in her final high school campaign and is known for her deadly three-point shooting and aggressive slashing. Simmons also earned Gatorade State Player of the Year honors and brings a strong leadership presence both on and off the court.

The double signing comes amid a transformative phase for the Blue Devils, spearheaded by senior leader Vanessa de Jesus. Entering her final year, de Jesus has taken on a more vocal leadership role, mentoring younger players and actively participating in off-season recruitment efforts. The Los Angeles native, who made history as the first Filipina-American to play in the ACC, continues to be a foundational piece for Duke’s identity, not just as a floor general but also as a cultural and strategic bridge between players and coaching staff.

“Vanessa has been instrumental in helping us shape this new team,” Coach Lawson stated. “She leads by example, and her work ethic, competitiveness, and drive to win are contagious. Having her guide our incoming talent is going to elevate us as a group.”

Duke is coming off a rebuilding season that ended just shy of the NCAA Tournament. With de Jesus returning, and the addition of Johnson and Simmons, expectations are growing that the Blue Devils will be back in contention within the ACC and potentially beyond.

Both signees expressed excitement about joining the program. “Duke felt like home the moment I stepped on campus,” Johnson said. “I’m ready to work and win.” Simmons echoed the sentiment: “The chance to play under Coach Lawson and with players like Vanessa is an opportunity I couldn’t pass up.”

As the offseason progresses, more roster developments are expected, but for now, this double signing marks a promising turning point for Duke. With fresh talent and senior leadership aligning, the Blue Devils may be poised for a breakout year.