What Just Happened at Duke? Post-Portal Power Shift Explained
The college basketball world is buzzing once again, and all eyes are on Durham. Duke is making major waves ahead of the 2025–2026 season, reasserting itself as a national powerhouse with one of the top-ranked recruiting classes in the country. Under head coach Jon Scheyer, the Blue Devils have executed a masterclass in post-portal roster building, combining elite incoming freshmen with a seasoned core of returning players.
So—what just happened at Duke? A power shift. Not just within the ACC, but across the college basketball landscape.
Scheyer and his staff have pulled in a class that includes multiple five-star prospects, led by a dynamic point guard regarded as one of the most polished floor generals in recent years. Alongside him, Duke has added an explosive wing with a deadly shooting stroke and a 6’10” forward with the skillset of a modern NBA big. These freshmen are not only elite in terms of talent, but they also fit seamlessly into Duke’s fast-paced, positionless style of play.
But the real power of this Duke team lies in its balance. Unlike some past Blue Devil squads that relied heavily on youth, this year’s roster features key returning veterans who bring leadership, experience, and toughness. Sophomore guard Caleb Foster returns with a year of growth under his belt, while senior forward Mark Mitchell provides a versatile presence on both ends of the floor. The blend of star freshmen and mature returners gives Duke a dangerous mix of explosiveness and composure.
The Blue Devils also worked the transfer portal strategically. While many programs scrambled to fill holes, Duke added depth with a couple of targeted additions—players who bring experience, defend multiple positions, and know how to win. These aren’t headline-grabbing transfers, but they are the kind of steady contributors championship teams rely on.
Perhaps the biggest takeaway is that Scheyer has found his rhythm. After taking over from Mike Krzyzewski, the pressure was immense. But now, in his third year, he’s showing he can both recruit at a high level and construct a roster with long-term vision. His approach combines Duke’s traditional focus on elite high school talent with the adaptability required in the NIL and transfer portal era.
In short, Duke isn’t just back—they’re built for sustained success. The 2025–2026 roster is deep, talented, and battle-tested. If you’re looking for a national title contender, look no further than Cameron Indoor. The post-portal power shift has arrived—and Duke is once again leading the charge.
