“Unreal Work Ethic”: Duke Freshmen Outworking Everyone in Summer Practices — A Scary Sign for the Rest of College Basketball
There’s a storm brewing in Durham — and it’s not just talent. According to insiders close to Duke’s offseason program, the incoming freshmen class is already turning heads during summer practices with a relentless, almost maniacal work ethic. Words like “military focus,” “nonstop motor,” and “outworking upperclassmen” are being tossed around as coaches and teammates alike marvel at the intensity coming from Jon Scheyer’s youngest recruits. For the rest of college basketball? This should be terrifying.
Inside Duke’s Summer Practices: Relentless Energy, Competitive Culture
Summer workouts at Duke have always been intense. But something feels different this year. Multiple sources confirm that the 2025 freshman class has taken control of the gym, leading early-morning drills, staying for late-night shooting sessions, and bringing a level of energy that even veteran players are struggling to match.
One insider described the vibe in practice as “electric but uncomfortable” — the newcomers aren’t just fitting in; they’re raising the bar.
Players like Cooper Flagg, Khamenia, and Isaiah Evans are reportedly first in the gym and last to leave, setting an example and making a strong case that they’re ready to lead — even as true freshmen.
“You Can’t Teach That Hunger”: What Coaches Are Saying
While coaches can implement systems and teach technique, what they can’t instill is obsession. And that’s exactly what this class seems to possess.
Jon Scheyer is said to be thrilled with the early culture shift. With so much turnover in the transfer portal era, bringing in a class that already lives and breathes basketball gives Duke a clear developmental edge. Word around the program is that this group isn’t just physically gifted — they’re mentally wired to compete at all hours.
The whispers? Coaches are privately saying it’s one of the hardest-working freshmen groups Duke has had since the early Coach K years.
Veterans Taking Notice — Or Getting Outworked
Upperclassmen are reportedly responding in two ways: some are rising to the challenge, but others are feeling the pressure. One assistant coach mentioned that “every player in that gym knows they’re being watched”, and the freshmen’s hustle has become contagious.
Flagg, in particular, is setting the tone. Despite already being a national name, he’s described as “the one doing the dirty work” — diving for loose balls in scrimmages and leading stretches. That kind of self-discipline is rubbing off fast on the locker room.
If this level of drive continues, Duke may be returning to its championship DNA faster than expected. Here’s what to expect based on early signs:
A deeper rotation: Multiple freshmen are fighting for minutes, and they’re backing it up with sweat.
Defensive identity: With their energy and length, the team looks like it could suffocate opponents.
Mental toughness: Summer habits are showing this team might not fold under late-season pressure.
This isn’t just about talent — it’s about culture. And Duke might be establishing one of the most ruthless ones in college hoops.
The message is clear: Duke’s 2025 freshmen aren’t here to learn slowly — they’re here to lead immediately. Their work ethic is not just changing the dynamics inside the locker room — it’s reshaping the narrative around Duke basketball’s future.
For every team on their schedule: get ready. Because this group isn’t just coming for the crown… they’re working for it.
