Jon Scheyer Inks 6-Year Extension as Duke Basketball’s Head Coach, Signaling a Promising New Chapter

The Duke Blue Devils have officially extended head coach Jon Scheyer’s contract by six years, marking a significant step in the program’s transition into a new era following the retirement of the legendary Mike Krzyzewski.

Duke, one of the most storied programs in college basketball history, entered a period of uncertainty after Coach K stepped down in 2022 following a 42-year career that included five national championships and a legacy that shaped the sport. With those massive shoes to fill, Scheyer—Krzyzewski’s hand-picked successor and a former Duke star himself—was tasked with maintaining the program’s elite status.

From Player to Coach: Scheyer’s Journey

Scheyer’s connection to Duke runs deep. As a standout guard from 2006 to 2010, he played a key role in the team’s 2010 national title. Known for his high basketball IQ, leadership, and clutch performances, he left Durham as one of the program’s top scorers. After a brief professional stint overseas, Scheyer returned to Duke in 2013, joining the coaching staff and quickly rising through the ranks. As an assistant, and later associate head coach, he helped mentor future NBA stars like Zion Williamson and Jayson Tatum.

Establishing Himself as Head Coach

Taking over in 2022, Scheyer quickly proved he was up to the challenge. In his first season, he led the Blue Devils to a 32-7 record and a Final Four appearance, successfully guiding Duke through a major leadership transition while implementing his own player-focused coaching style. In year two, the team went 28-6, won an ACC title, and advanced to the Elite Eight.

Scheyer has balanced tradition with innovation—maintaining Duke’s high standards while adapting to the modern game, including the NIL era and evolving recruitment landscape. His commitment to player development and team chemistry has helped build a strong, sustainable culture.

Recruiting Success and Future Outlook

A major factor in Duke’s continued dominance has been Scheyer’s ability to attract top-tier talent. He’s secured commitments from elite recruits like Kyle Filipowski, Dereck Lively II, and Tyrese Proctor, and continues to bring in future stars. The 2025-26 class, featuring the highly touted Boozer twins, is another example of his recruiting strength.

A Contract That Signals Stability and Confidence

Duke’s decision to lock in Scheyer through a six-year extension speaks volumes about the confidence the university has in his leadership. The move offers crucial stability for the program, reinforcing trust with recruits and their families, and providing long-term direction. It also underscores the administration’s belief in Scheyer’s ability to continue building on the program’s legacy while charting his own successful path.

What Lies Ahead

With Scheyer officially cemented as Duke’s long-term leader, the Blue Devils are well-positioned to remain a powerhouse in college basketball. His steady rise, proven coaching ability, and strong leadership style signal that Duke’s future remains in good hands. As the college basketball landscape continues to shift, Scheyer’s adaptability, recruiting acumen, and player-first approach will be key to keeping the Blue Devils at the top of the sport.

The extension isn’t just a win for Jon Scheyer—it’s a statement from Duke that the program’s tradition of excellence is alive and well. A new chapter has begun, and with Scheyer at the helm, the Blue Devils are poised to reach even greater heights.

Isaiah Evans, a freshman for Duke Basketball, must make a big decision.

It’s unclear what Duke sharpshooter Isaiah Evans will decide for next season.

So far, none of Duke’s 10 scholarship players with remaining eligibility have entered the transfer portal or declared for the NBA Draft. While some choices—like projected No. 1 pick Cooper Flagg—seem inevitable, others, like Evans, remain uncertain.

Evans, a former five-star prospect and McDonald’s All-American from North Meck High School in North Carolina, could potentially play a major role for Duke in 2025–26. However, the 6-foot-6, 175-pound freshman might also consider transferring to a program where he could receive more playing time, especially if Duke brings in five-star forward Nate Ament.

During his first year, Evans played in 36 games—mostly off the bench—and averaged 6.8 points and 1.1 rebounds in just 13.8 minutes per game. He led Duke’s regular rotation in three-point accuracy, hitting 41.6% from deep, and was even projected as a potential second-round pick in some mock drafts.

Despite his shooting ability, Evans saw limited action in the NCAA Tournament, logging under 10 minutes in every game after the first round and just two minutes in the Final Four loss to Houston. That drop in usage could influence whether he stays at Duke or looks for opportunities elsewhere.

The deadline to enter the transfer portal is April 22.