The echoes inside Cameron Indoor may be quieter in July, but the energy is unmistakably electric. Duke’s 2025–26 journey is already underway — not under bright lights or in front of roaring crowds, but in sweat-soaked summer practices where the foundation of greatness is built. A short 3½-minute scrimmage video released by the Blue Devils gave fans their first glimpse of a new era forming under Jon Scheyer — and if what we saw is any sign, the firepower is real, the chemistry is rising, and The Brotherhood isn’t just reloading — it’s evolving.
The Stars Are Already Shining — Especially Boozer
The name on everyone’s lips right now is Cameron Boozer. The No. 1 player in the 2025 recruiting class lived up to the hype in his summer scrimmage debut. Smooth in the post, decisive in transition, and calm under pressure, Boozer didn’t just blend in — he led. He scored with efficiency and showcased rare court vision for a big man, dropping pinpoint passes from the high post and handling the ball like a guard.
What’s more? He looked comfortable. At 6’9” and already possessing NBA-level instincts, Boozer could be a program-changing presence from Day One. Duke fans were treated to a glimpse of the future — and it’s bright.
Five Returners Providing the Backbone
While the newcomers bring excitement, the returning core of five gives this team a sturdy identity:
Caleb Foster: The poised point guard is back to direct the offense with his steady handle and vision.
Isaiah Evans: Duke’s wiry wing showed flashes of brilliance last year, and this summer he looks even more confident attacking the rim.
Maliq Brown: A gritty, defense-first forward who brings toughness and rebounding — exactly what this young squad needs.
Patrick Ngongba: The big man showed flashes of post polish, though he’s reportedly in a walking boot, raising slight concerns.
Darren Harris: Perhaps the most impressive in the scrimmage video not named Boozer — Harris lit it up from deep and showed why his shooting stroke is elite.
Together, this group adds experience, leadership, and balance to a squad bursting with potential.
Freshmen Flash Early Chemistry
In addition to Boozer, Duke’s other four freshmen made their mark in the scrimmage:
Cayden Boozer, Cameron’s twin, played with grit and control at the guard spot — a true floor leader.
Nik Khamenia, a tall stretch-forward, impressed with his shooting and feel for the game.
Dame Sarr, the athletic wing from Europe, delivered a highlight-reel dunk and played fearlessly.
Sebastian Wilkins contributed smart, team-first play and fit right into Scheyer’s system.
What stood out was how well this group already meshes. They moved the ball, communicated, and defended like they’d been together for longer than a few weeks. That’s a promising sign.
Coach Scheyer Sets the Tone
At the close of the scrimmage video, Jon Scheyer looked directly at his team and delivered a challenge:
“While I like the competition, the competition can even go up. We’ll get better and better. I’m excited to be your coach.”
This wasn’t coach-speak — it was a clear message: good isn’t good enough at Duke. The standard is greatness, and this group has both the talent and hunger to chase it.
What Comes Next?
With an open practice scheduled for August 5 at Cameron Indoor, fans will get a better look at this squad in action. Expect more growth, more chemistry, and hopefully, clarity on Ngongba’s injury status. The rest of the offseason will focus on conditioning, spacing, and instilling the principles of Brotherhood basketball into the newcomers.
The Brotherhood Reloaded
This summer scrimmage wasn’t just about highlights — it was a glimpse into the heart of a team that’s hungry. With a balance of returning leadership and elite young talent, the 2025–26 Blue Devils look every bit the contender. And if Cameron Boozer keeps trending upward, Duke might just have its next superstar ready to carry the torch.
