Duke Basketball on the Verge of Major Roster Shake-Up

Duke Basketball on the Verge of Major Roster Shake-Up as Four-Star Forward Sebastian Wilkins Sets Sights on Durham Visit — Reclassification to 2025 Expected

Jon Scheyer looks to reload with high-level talent as Duke targets versatile power forward to bolster depleted frontcourt

The Duke Blue Devils are actively retooling their roster, and they might be closing in on a significant addition that could make an immediate impact. Four-star power forward Sebastian Wilkins, a highly touted prospect currently in the 2026 class, is scheduled to make an official visit to Duke’s campus next week. But this trip could be far more than just a recruiting courtesy. There’s growing belief that Wilkins will reclassify into the 2025 class, opening the door for him to suit up in Durham as early as next season  a timely development for a Blue Devil squad undergoing major changes.

Wilkins, a 6-foot-8, 215-pound physical force out of Brewster Academy in New Hampshire, is currently ranked No. 28 overall and No. 7 among power forwards in the 2026 247Sports Composite rankings. However, his advanced skill set, build, and maturity have him trending toward playing at the collegiate level sooner rather than later. Should he reclassify, he would not only elevate the Blue Devils’ already-loaded 2025 class but also address some urgent frontcourt needs.

Blue Devils Face Massive Roster Turnover — Enter Wilkins

The urgency behind this recruitment stems from Duke’s sweeping roster turnover. Jon Scheyer is preparing for life without his entire starting five from the 2024–25 campaign all of whom are expected to enter the NBA Draft. That includes future top pick Cooper Flagg, scoring machine Kon Knueppel, defensive anchor Khaman Maluach, backcourt maestro Tyrese Proctor, and senior veteran Jeremy Roach. While Duke retains plenty of perimeter talent, the frontcourt has become a pressing area of concern.

Scheyer and his staff responded by extending an offer to Wilkins just two weeks ago. Since then, the mutual interest has only intensified, culminating in next week’s visit. It’s a crucial window for Duke to lock in a player with high-level upside one who fits seamlessly into their system and culture.

Brewster Academy Pipeline Keeps Delivering

Wilkins brings with him more than raw potential he’s a product of Brewster Academy, one of the most prestigious prep programs in the country. Brewster has produced a long list of elite college stars and NBA players, including Donovan Mitchell, Will Barton, and Terrence Clarke. Wilkins has thrived against top-tier competition, honing his skills in a setting built for future pros. He’s the top-ranked player in New Hampshire and the crown jewel of a Brewster squad that competes nationally.

What makes Wilkins even more valuable is his versatility. He can stretch the floor with a reliable jump shot, operate in the post, and switch defensively across multiple positions. His length, mobility, and willingness to compete on both ends of the floor could allow him to step into a meaningful role from Day 1  especially if he accelerates his academic track and enters the 2025 class.

Scheyer’s Frontcourt Vision: Wilkins as a Missing Piece

Duke’s guard-heavy roster for 2025 will feature returnees like Caleb Foster, Darren Harris, and potentially Isaiah Evans, who declared for the NBA Draft but is widely expected to come back for another year. Still, outside of recent Washington State transfer Cedric Coward, there’s a noticeable gap in the Blue Devils’ interior rotation.

Scheyer knows this. He needs more length, athleticism, and rebounding to compete at the highest level and Wilkins checks all those boxes. His presence would not only solidify Duke’s depth but also give Scheyer lineup flexibility to mix size and speed.

Recruiting Implications and a Class on the Rise

Wilkins has drawn interest from a host of major programs, including Maryland, Florida State, Boston College, and Alabama. But Duke’s late push has surged them into frontrunner status. With the No. 3 recruiting class in 2025 already secured  led by elite prospects like five-star guards Meleek Thomas and Nate Ament  adding Wilkins could push Duke’s class even higher and firmly re-establish Scheyer’s reputation as a top-tier recruiter.

Landing Wilkins would send a strong message: despite losing its stars, Duke isn’t slowing down. The program remains committed to elite talent and national championship aspirations.

The Countdown Begins in Durham

As Wilkins prepares to walk through the storied halls of Cameron Indoor Stadium next week, the stakes couldn’t be higher. His visit could shape the direction of Duke’s immediate future. A successful pitch and an eventual commitment  paired with a reclassification  would be a massive win for Scheyer and company.

Eyes across the college basketball world will be glued to this visit. If all goes well, Sebastian Wilkins may not only become the newest Blue Devil but also one of the most important. The next great Duke frontcourt talent could be just days away from making it official.