It’s been over two decades since a Duke head coach hoisted the Naismith Coach of the Year Award, despite the program’s relentless success. But with the way things are shaping up in Durham, this might finally be the season that changes everything.
For generations, Duke basketball has stood as the gold standard of college hoops. Since Mike Krzyzewski took the reins in 1980, the Blue Devils became a dynasty — five national championships, countless NBA stars, and an unwavering legacy that stretches far beyond Cameron Indoor Stadium.
But since Coach K’s retirement, all eyes have been on Jon Scheyer, the young general tasked with carrying one of the most demanding legacies in college sports. And make no mistake — Scheyer has done more than just “keep the program steady.” He’s evolving it.
The Road Since Coach K
In just three seasons, Scheyer has shown maturity beyond his years. Duke hasn’t had a losing season since 1995, and that streak looks in no danger of breaking anytime soon. His Blue Devils continue to dominate recruiting and maintain their position as perennial ACC favorites.
Last year, Scheyer came close to the Coach of the Year crown, finishing as a finalist but ultimately losing to St. John’s Rick Pitino, whose turnaround story stole the spotlight. Still, Scheyer’s growth and Duke’s consistent excellence didn’t go unnoticed — and 2025 might just be his time.
Building a New Era, Brick by Brick
This offseason, Scheyer signed an extension through 2030–31, solidifying his long-term future in Durham. And with that stability comes another wave of dominance — starting with the No. 1 recruiting class in the nation, according to 247Sports.
Despite losing five players to the NBA, including top picks Cooper Flagg and Kon Knueppel, Scheyer somehow reloaded Duke’s roster with frightening precision. The freshman class features three five-star recruits:
Cameron Boozer — already crowned ACC Preseason Rookie of the Year
Dame Sarr — a sharpshooting guard with poise beyond his age
Nikolas Khamenia — a versatile forward who brings size, IQ, and toughness
Each one fits perfectly into Scheyer’s evolving blueprint — a fast-paced, modern Duke team that blends youthful talent with old-school toughness.
Why the Award Might Finally Be His
The Naismith Award rarely goes to the coach of a powerhouse — it’s usually about storylines. But Scheyer’s story might finally be too compelling to ignore.
He’s managing constant roster turnover, developing NBA-level talent year after year, and still keeping Duke in the championship conversation. That level of consistency — especially in the new NIL and transfer portal era — deserves more respect than it gets.
While traditional favorites like Tom Izzo (Michigan State), Dan Hurley (UConn), and Kelvin Sampson (Houston) remain in the mix, Scheyer’s work this season could set him apart. If this youthful Blue Devils squad overcomes the odds and contends for another title, voters will have no choice but to take notice.
The Bigger Picture
Some might say Duke’s success has become so normal that it’s overlooked. But maintaining dominance in the modern era — when even blue bloods like North Carolina, Kentucky, and UCLA have stumbled — is a sign of elite leadership.
Jon Scheyer isn’t just filling Coach K’s shoes anymore. He’s building his own legacy — one grounded in adaptability, trust, and quiet confidence.
If Duke delivers another deep tournament run this season, this could finally be the year that the Naismith Coach of the Year Award finds its way back to Durham — and the Scheyer era officially takes center stage in college basketball’s next chapter.
