
By: Jeremy Wilson
January 31, 2025
In his third season at the helm, Duke men's basketball head coach Jon Scheyer has propelled the Blue Devils to an impressive 18-2 record, including a perfect 10-0 mark in ACC play, and thus, securing the top spot in the conference.
Duke went undefeated in December and January. The last Blue Devil team to do that was the 2014-15 squad that won the national championship. Under Scheyer's leadership, the team has showcased a potent offense, averaging 80 points per game, while maintaining a stifling defense that limits opponents to just 59.5 points per game.Â
Right now, Duke is offering the best of both worlds on and off the court.
A significant factor in Duke's success this season is their proficiency from beyond the arc. This should come as no surprise given the fact that Scheyer was a high percentage and high volume shooter during his playing career. The Blue Devils are averaging 10.7 three-pointers per game with a three-point accuracy of 37% --- contributing nearly 39% of their total points. This emphasis on perimeter shooting has been instrumental in their offensive strategy.
Duke’s margin of victory is 20.5 points. But as any basketball fan knows, victories aren't simply a result of offense.
The Blue Devils have established themselves as one of the most dominant defensive teams in college basketball during the 2024-25 season. Duke has built an identity centered around relentless pressure, rim protection and disciplined defensive schemes.
Currently ranked third in the nation in defensive efficiency, the Blue Devils are allowing just 0.87 points per possession. Their ability to disrupt opposing offenses stems from a combination of elite perimeter defense, aggressive on-ball pressure and a suffocating interior presence.
Freshman sensation Cooper Flagg has been a game-changer on the defensive end, using his length and athleticism to contest shots and force turnovers. Freshman center Khaman Maluach, a dominant force in the paint, has anchored the interior with his shot-blocking ability, making it difficult for opponents to score inside. Meanwhile, veteran guards like Tyrese Proctor and Sion James provide experience and tenacity on the perimeter, limiting opposing guards and creating transition opportunities for Duke’s offense.
Perhaps Duke's best defender is junior transfer Maliq Brown, whose status is questionable for Saturday after missing the last three weeks with a knee sprain.
Duke’s defense will be their biggest weapon. With its combination of athleticism, discipline and depth, the Blue Devils have positioned themselves as serious contenders for a national championship and are reminding all basketball fans that defense wins championships.
Flagg has been leading the charge for Duke. His dynamic play has been pivotal in Duke's dominance. His scoring prowess and defensive tenacity have made him a standout performer. While pundits and fans will debate if Flagg is the National Player of the Year and the No. 1 overall draft pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, Duke fans are enjoying watching the young phenom shine in Cameron Indoor Stadium (like when he broke the single-game ACC freshman scoring record versus Notre Dame with 42 points).
James, a transfer from Tulane, has seamlessly integrated into the lineup, providing veteran leadership and versatility on both ends of the floor. His experience has been invaluable in guiding the team's younger players. That is likely one of the reasons Scheyer has shifted the super senior to point guard.
Proctor, who has spent more time in Durham than nearly anyone on the roster, continues to be a steadying presence by facilitating the offense with precision passing and demonstrating timely scoring. His court vision and decision-making have been critical in orchestrating the team's high-powered offense.
Freshman sharpshooter Kon Knueppel has emerged as a reliable threat from three-point range, stretching defenses and opening up driving lanes for his teammates. His shooting has added a new dimension to Duke's offensive arsenal.
Maluach has been a formidable presence in the paint, anchoring the defense with shot-blocking and rebounding. Despite a recent health scare during the NC State game, Maluach has been a consistent force inside.Â
Brown, a transfer from Syracuse, has provided energy and athleticism, contributing significantly on the boards and in transition. His hustle plays have often shifted momentum in crucial moments.
Sophomore guard Caleb Foster has shown flashes of brilliance, displaying a scoring touch and defensive intensity that bode well for his future contributions. However, he appears to have hit a sophomore slump. After beginning the season in the starting lineup, he has been shifted to a reserve role.
Graduate transfer Mason Gillis brings a wealth of experience, offering toughness and a high basketball IQ. His leadership has been instrumental in guiding the team's younger players through the rigors of the season.
Freshman forward Isaiah Evans rounds out the rotation, providing length and versatility. His ability to shoot the ball from distance has provided an extra punch off the bench for Duke.
As the season progresses, Scheyer's blend of seasoned transfers and talented freshmen has created a cohesive unit poised for a deep postseason run. With a balanced attack and a commitment to defense, the Blue Devils are well-positioned to contend for national honors.Â
Duke welcomes rival North Carolina to Cameron Indoor this Saturday. Scheyer is 2-2 against the Tar Heels during his time at the helm. While No. 2 Duke enters the game as the favorite against the struggling Heels, Duke and North Carolina fans know that Tobacco Road is unforgiving to analytics, odds, and ‘who should win’.Â
Jeremy Wilson | @theJeremyDavid
Comments