After an impressive season for Duke that resulted in an ACC Tournament Championship, the Blue Devils look to add more success. Jon Scheyer had a terrific first season that ended in a heartbreaking Round of 32 loss to Tennessee. Therefore, improvements are needed. Luckily for Duke, they have upgraded and should be considered the title favorite.
Why Duke Should Be the Favorite
Their Experience
While seemingly being a young team, the Blue Devils experienced a lot of big games last year. Their core of Jeremy Roach, Kyle Filipowski, Tyrese Proctor, and Mark Mitchell played in huge games as Freshman. Furthermore, they succeeded late in the season and were key factors in their ACC Tournament run. Additionally, they have Ryan Young, who played meaningful minutes for the Blue Devils last season. Their experience and success make for a better chance at National Championship success this upcoming season. The caveat is their work ethic and the improvement of their top players for next season. Nevertheless, the players and coaches found prosperity and should take that into this season.
The Blue Devils’ Recruits
Caleb Foster
The Blue Devils have an impressive group coming into Durham this season. To start things off, Caleb Foster helps bring talented guard depth to the Blue Devils. He is a 5-star Recruit who averaged 25.2 points and shot 44.4% from three at Nike Peach Jam in 2022. He brings shot creation and perimeter shooting, which Duke needs. Last season, the Blue Devils shot 33.5% from three-point range, so Foster adds shooting to space the court for Filipowski and Roach. Foster is a fantastic addition to Durham and should make an impact this season.
Sean Stewart
Sean Stewart is an incoming Freshman from Montverde Academy. He was the 21st-ranked player Nationally in the 2023 Class and also played in the EYBL. Stewart is incredibly athletic, playing above the rim at an elite level. Moreover, he is versatile on both ends of the court. On offense, Stewart handles the ball well, can attack the rim, and shoot midrange jumpers at an elite level. Defensively, Sean guards multiple positions and should find success defending forwards and guards at Duke. He possesses great instincts and moves his feet exceptionally well.
Jared McCain
Jared McCain is another marque recruit that rolls into Durham this season. Ranked 1oth in the 2023 Class by ESPN, McCain was the number one player in California. McCain is terrific, as he scores from all three levels. He is also strong and controls his pace very well. Jared loves the one or two dribble jump-shot out of pick-and-roll actions, which will be tough to stop when teams run drop coverage or switch. Furthermore, McCain adds value because of his controlled scoring, ability to control the pace and game, and dominating the game in all facets.
TJ Power
Lastly, TJ Power is another member of the First-Year class for the Blue Devils. Power is another impressive pickup for the Blue Devils. He is 6’9” and 210 lbs, ranked 16th by 247 Sports and 32nd by ESPN. TJ is an impressive player who does a lot on the offensive side of the floor. Power shoots the three at a high level, shoots well in midrange jump-shot scenarios, and can score at the basket. More importantly, he brings spacing for a Duke team that needs spacing on the court. Power and Foster are both elite shooters, so Power is a team-first player that will make shots.
Filipowski and Roach
Filipowski and Roach are one of the best duos in the country. They know each other well and have games that complement each other. Both players take over in different areas. Filipowski takes over in the post and attacking closeouts, while Roach thrives in pick-and-roll. Therefore, Filipowski and Roach will dominate opposing defenses because they play well with each other.
More importantly, Filipowski sets screens and pops or rolls to the basketball, making nightmare matchups for slow-footed big men. Furthermore, Roach finds a way to use his speed to get into the paint and make plays for himself or his teammates. It will be exciting to see how each player evolves their game, yet their two-man game will be the main reason Duke dominates this season.
