HE’S BACK: Duke’s Frontcourt Gets Massive Boost as Maliq Brown Announces Return for Senior Season!

DURHAM, NC — Duke just secured one of the biggest wins of the offseason. Defensive anchor and fan-favorite Maliq Brown is officially returning for his senior season, giving Jon Scheyer and the Blue Devils a seasoned enforcer ready to dominate both ends of the floor.

Amid swirling possibilities of a pro leap or transfer, Brown chose loyalty — staying put in Durham to chase championship glory with the Blue Devils. His decision signals more than just roster stability: it’s a statement of unfinished business.

After a strong junior year marked by lockdown defense, relentless rebounding, and clutch hustle plays, Brown is set to play an even bigger role in a revamped Duke lineup. With key departures up front, the stage is set for him to step into a leadership position and possibly become a go-to force.

He’s not just a defender — he’s a tone-setter. With his elite versatility, experience, and commitment to the program, Brown’s return provides Duke with a steady hand and an on-court warrior in the battle for ACC and national titles.

Blue Devil Nation, get ready — Maliq Brown is back, and he’s coming for everything.

One of the most active teams in the One Five-Star Sweepstakes is Duke Basketball.

Duke basketball continues to look like a leading contender for Jordan Smith Jr., though the recruitment of the five-star junior is still in its early stages

Smith, a 6-foot-2, 200-pound guard from Paul VI Catholic High School (Va.), already made a visit to Durham back in November, joining fellow 2026 standout Brandon McCoy Jr. from St. John Bosco (Calif.) for a tour of Duke’s campus. The trip left an impression—and Duke’s interest hasn’t faded since.

Hailing from a program that’s produced four Blue Devils this decade, Smith told 247Sports’ Dushawn London that Jon Scheyer and his staff remain among the coaches reaching out most often. Duke offered him back in July, making him one of their earliest priorities in the 2026 class.

“I don’t have any visits set up right now, but I’m planning to start talking with coaches about when to come back for officials,” Smith said. He named Duke, Kentucky, Arkansas, Louisville, Georgetown, and Syracuse as the schools currently recruiting him hardest.

So far, Kentucky is the only program to make an in-home visit. But as London noted, Smith’s recruitment is still wide open—and just getting started.

Smith holds the No. 4 overall spot in the 247Sports Composite rankings for 2026. He’s also rated as the top shooting guard in the class and the No. 1 player in Virginia.