Transfer Portal Closes: Duke’s Roster Solidifies as Patrick Ngongba II and Maliq Brown Expected to Return — Blue Devil Nation Breathing Easier
Durham, NC — The NCAA transfer portal officially closed late Tuesday night, and while some programs across the country are still reeling from roster uncertainty, Duke fans can finally exhale. Though no formal announcements have been made, strong indications suggest that Patrick Ngongba II and Maliq Brown will return to the Blue Devils for the 2025-26 season.
The unofficial news comes as a major win for head coach Jon Scheyer, who has been navigating a crucial offseason defined by balancing incoming talent with the potential of returning key contributors.
No Departure, No Drama — Just Silent Confidence
There was mounting speculation in recent weeks that Ngongba, a 6-foot-11 forward with tremendous upside, might test the waters either via the NBA Draft or a transfer. Similarly, Maliq Brown’s name surfaced as a potential portal candidate after a productive campaign. But as the dust settles, both names are not listed among portal entrants, signaling their intent to remain in Durham.
“Sometimes no news is the best news,” a Duke insider commented. “Patrick and Maliq value what they’re building here, and that continuity could be what takes this team to the next level.”
Why Their Return Matters
Patrick Ngongba II, a former five-star recruit, showed flashes of brilliance during his freshman campaign. His size, mobility, and defensive instincts give Duke a presence in the paint that few teams can match. Coaches believe he’s primed for a breakout sophomore year.
Maliq Brown, a transfer from Virginia Tech last season, quietly became one of the Blue Devils’ most consistent two-way players. His ability to defend multiple positions, rebound with tenacity, and contribute efficient offense made him a fan favorite and a locker-room glue guy.
Keeping both players not only secures Duke’s frontcourt depth but also provides veteran stability on a roster that will welcome high-profile freshmen this fall.
A Roster Ready to Compete
With the portal now closed and Duke retaining several key pieces, the focus shifts to how Jon Scheyer will blend experience with youth. The Blue Devils are bringing in another top-tier recruiting class, headlined by elite prospects expected to contribute immediately. But it’s the returning core—players like Ngongba, Brown, and Caleb Foster—that could define the team’s championship potential.
“The pieces are here. We’ve got skill, we’ve got toughness, and we’ve got leadership,” Scheyer said in a recent interview. “Now it’s about putting it all together.”
Looking Ahead
With NBA Draft declarations still possible for underclassmen, things could shift in the coming days, but for now, Duke fans can celebrate a stable, talented roster poised to make another deep run. The silent return of Ngongba and Brown may not make national headlines—but it might just be the news that makes Duke a
national title contender.
