Fans Burst Into Laughter as Duke Coach Reveals Shocking Pick to Replace Cooper Flagg — Can This Star Really Deliver?
Duke basketball fans were left in disbelief — and some even laughing — when head coach Jon Scheyer revealed his surprising choice to step into Cooper Flagg’s shoes. His pick? Sophomore Isaiah Evans, a player who had a relatively quiet freshman season, is now being positioned as the team’s next star.
“We believe in Isaiah’s talent and drive,” Scheyer said confidently. “He’s developed a lot over the past year, and we think he’s ready for this challenge.”
Evans averaged just 6.8 points per game last season, shooting 43.2% from the field and an impressive 41.6% from three-point range. Though he wasn’t a standout during his freshman year, his decision to return to Duke rather than test the NBA waters shows his commitment to improving and taking on a bigger role.
The announcement comes at a turbulent time for Duke, with the roster going through major changes. After losing Cooper Flagg, Kon Knueppel, and Tyrese Proctor to the NBA Draft, Duke’s remaining core — including Evans, Caleb Foster, Maliq Brown, and Patrick Ngongba II — will have to carry the load heading into next season.
Ngongba, who showed flashes of promise as a freshman, averaged 3.9 points and 2.7 rebounds per game, shooting a stellar 71.9% from the floor. His growth will be critical to Duke’s success in the paint.
Adding to the intrigue, Duke is set to welcome star recruit Cameron Boozer. As the son of former NBA All-Star Carlos Boozer, Cameron brings high expectations and a versatile skill set that could be key for the Blue Devils’ future.
Despite the initial laughter and doubt from fans about Evans stepping into a leadership role, Scheyer is standing firm in his belief. “Every great player has a beginning,” he said. “Isaiah’s work ethic and talent can take him far.”
As Duke looks to regroup after a chaotic offseason, all eyes will now be on Isaiah Evans — and whether he can rise to the challenge and guide the Blue Devils back to national prominence.
