In the heart of Durham, North Carolina, a sense of excitement and anticipation is building around the Duke University men’s basketball team. Head coach Jon Scheyer has been working tirelessly to assemble a roster capable of achieving greatness, and the results are nothing short of impressive. With a mix of seasoned veterans and talented newcomers, including 17-year-old phenom Cooper Flagg, the Blue Devils are poised to make a deep run in the NCAA tournament.
As the team prepares to tip off the 2024-25 season, Scheyer sat down to discuss the immense expectations surrounding his squad, the challenges of building a winning roster in the modern era of college basketball, and his vision for the future of the sport.
“It’s not about the external noise,” Scheyer emphasized. “I’m excited because I feel we have a group that can do something special.” With a keen eye for detail, Scheyer has carefully crafted a lineup that blends talent, athleticism, and chemistry. “Everything we’ve done since last season’s Elite Eight loss has been incredibly intentional,” he explained. “We’ve looked analytically at what fits best, including from a culture standpoint, and blended talent in different roles to create the best fit.”
As the college basketball landscape continues to evolve, Scheyer acknowledges the need to adapt and innovate. “To win a national championship or go to a Final Four is one of the hardest things to do in any sport,” he noted. “You have to evolve and find ways to stay ahead of the curve.” With the rise of the transfer portal and the increasing importance of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities, Scheyer recognizes the challenges of building a winning roster. “It’s not just about getting the best talent,” he said. “It’s about finding the right fit and blending talent in different roles.”
One of the most intriguing storylines surrounding the Blue Devils is the arrival of Cooper Flagg, a 17-year-old prodigy who has drawn comparisons to basketball legends. Scheyer is keenly aware of the pressure and scrutiny that comes with coaching a player of Flagg’s caliber. “I want him to enjoy the process,” Scheyer said. “I’ve told him, I hope there are times you look bad. That’s inevitable. But it’s about your growth and embracing those moments.”
As the college basketball world continues to navigate the complexities of NIL opportunities and revenue sharing, Scheyer acknowledges the unique position of Duke’s basketball program. “Our program, with the exposure we get, is the equivalent of a high-major football program,” he noted. “We feel that needs to be talked about.” With athletic director Nina King, Scheyer is working to ensure that the men’s basketball program receives its fair share of revenue and resources.
Looking ahead to the future of college basketball, Scheyer is optimistic about the sport’s potential for growth and innovation. “We have to find ways to get people to watch,” he said. “We need to modernize our rules, play quarters, and advance the ball like the rest of the world does.” With a focus on developing the game and showcasing its talented players, Scheyer believes that college basketball can continue to thrive and captivate audiences nationwide.
As the Blue Devils prepare to take the court, Scheyer is acutely aware of the weight of expectations surrounding his team. “My expectations are higher than anybody else’s,” he said. “But my focus is on being the best every day for my team. If we do that, amazing things will happen.” With a deep roster, a clear vision, and a commitment to excellence, the Duke University men’s basketball team is poised to make a memorable run in the 2024-25 season.
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