Reloaded and Ready: Way-Too-Early Starting Five Projection for Duke Basketball’s 2025-26 Campaign
After a chaotic offseason filled with recruiting victories, transfer twists, and last-minute draft declarations, the Duke Blue Devils are reloaded and ready to chase another deep NCAA tournament run in the 2025–26 season. While Jon Scheyer’s program saw its fair share of turnover, what remains is a balanced, star-studded roster stacked with returning experience and top-tier freshmen talent.
With the dust finally settling, let’s take an in-depth look at the way-too-early projected starting five for the new-look Blue Devils—a lineup that could bring Duke back to the national spotlight with serious Final Four ambitions.
Point Guard – Caleb Foster (Junior)
After an up-and-down sophomore season, Caleb Foster has a golden opportunity to reclaim his spot and become the floor general Duke needs. The 6’5″ North Carolina native brings size, defensive grit, and leadership to a Blue Devils roster that will heavily rely on his stability at the point. Foster started his Duke career shooting an impressive 40.6% from beyond the arc, though he regressed to 34.2% in Year 2. If he can find his rhythm and shoot consistently, surrounded by elite spacing and athleticism, Foster could be a major difference-maker. His experience and maturity give him a key edge heading into what will be a make-or-break season.
Shooting Guard – Isaiah Evans (Sophomore)
Few players in the country have the breakout buzz surrounding them like Isaiah Evans. The 6’6″ sniper returns to Durham after testing the NBA Draft waters and resisting the transfer portal frenzy. As a freshman, Evans lit it up from deep, knocking down 41.6% of his three-point attempts on high volume. With added weight and an elevated role in Duke’s offense, Evans could emerge as one of the top scorers in the ACC and a legit NBA lottery prospect. His perimeter scoring will be essential to spacing the floor for the Blue Devils’ frontcourt-heavy lineup.
Small Forward – Dame Sarr (Freshman)
Don’t let the freshman label fool you—Dame Sarr is bringing pro-level experience to Cameron Indoor. Having competed with FC Barcelona in both the EuroLeague and Liga ACB, Sarr’s skillset and poise are beyond his years. The 6’6″ wing shot a staggering 44.8% from three in limited pro minutes, giving Scheyer another elite shooter with length and international polish. With the small forward role wide open, Sarr’s maturity, two-way potential, and shooting touch make him the early favorite to slide into this starting role and make an instant impact.
Power Forward – Cameron Boozer (Freshman)
The face of Duke’s incoming freshman class, Cameron Boozer arrives in Durham with expectations as heavy as his high school trophy case. The son of former Blue Devil great Carlos Boozer, Cameron is already being projected as the top rookie in the country. A two-time Mr. Basketball USA winner—joining LeBron James as the only other player to earn that honor twice—Boozer dominated high school hoops last season, averaging 22.1 points and 11.8 rebounds. He shined brightest under pressure, posting a double-double at the McDonald’s All-American Game. Boozer isn’t just a starter—he’ll be Duke’s offensive centerpiece from day one.
Center – Patrick Ngongba II (Sophomore)
While injuries have clouded the early stages of Ngongba’s career, the 6’11″ center remains a crucial piece to Duke’s frontcourt plans. After battling foot issues for most of his freshman season, all eyes will be on his health as the Blue Devils prepare for the year ahead. If he can stay on the court, Ngongba offers shot-blocking, rim-running, and size that Duke desperately needs, especially with limited depth behind him at the center position. His development on the offensive end will be one of the key X-factors for this team, but defensively, he already checks important boxes.
Bench Power and Rotation Depth
Behind this projected starting five lies a deep and talented bench that includes five-star recruits, experienced reserves, and role players hungry for minutes. Jon Scheyer will have the luxury of rotating lineups, especially with versatile wings and combo guards who can slot in multiple positions. But the success of this team will largely hinge on the cohesion and production of the starting unit.
Final Thoughts: Duke’s Blueprint for a New Era
With Caleb Foster returning to lead, Isaiah Evans ready to explode, and elite newcomers like Boozer and Sarr injecting energy and scoring, the 2025-26 Duke Blue Devils are built to compete at the highest level. If Ngongba stays healthy and the young core gels quickly, Jon Scheyer’s squad could find themselves right back in the Final Four conversation—and potentially cutting down nets in April.
Stay tuned to TrendySoccerNews.com for more exclusive Duke basketball previews, recruiting updates, and expert insights as we count down to tip-off.
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