In the storied history of Duke Basketball — a program synonymous with excellence, grit, and producing NBA-caliber talent — it’s not every day that a coach singles out a group of freshmen as “exceptional.” But that’s exactly what head coach Jon Scheyer did this week, delivering high praise for his 2024-25 freshman class, calling them “one of the most mature” groups he’s ever had the privilege to coach.
Speaking during a post-practice media session ahead of Duke’s Final Four matchup, Scheyer didn’t hold back his admiration.
“You always try to set a new standard for what you can do,” he said. “We’ve had some pretty special freshmen classes, but I think this group — with how they’ve been so mature, being up for any challenge, the way they understand the game — they’ve just been mature. It’s been special, and for me as a coach, it’s been amazing to have guys who are always ready to go.”
A Class That Defies the Freshman Label
From day one, this freshman class — headlined by All-American candidate Amari Evans, sharpshooting guard Trey Wallace, and defensive anchor Malik Duncan — has operated with a composure and basketball IQ far beyond their years. Whether in practice or under the national spotlight, their preparation, focus, and team-first mentality have impressed coaches, teammates, and fans alike.
“These kids didn’t walk in expecting to be handed anything,” Scheyer said. “They came in hungry, ready to earn their spots, ready to defend, ready to learn. That’s rare. And the way they handle pressure? You’d think they were juniors or seniors.”
Evans, in particular, has quickly emerged as a go-to scorer and emotional leader, averaging 16.2 points per game while drawing comparisons to Duke greats like Grant Hill and Brandon Ingram. His poise in clutch moments, including back-to-back game-winners in the ACC Tournament, has already made him a fan favorite in Cameron Indoor Stadium.
Culture Setters, Not Just Playmakers
What separates this group from past classes isn’t just their talent — it’s their ability to lead, communicate, and adapt. According to Scheyer, the tone was set early during preseason training when the freshmen came in not just to compete but to elevate the standard of the entire locker room.
“You can have all the five-star ratings in the world, but if you don’t have the right mindset, it doesn’t matter,” said senior captain Jeremy Roach. “These guys? They came in locked in. They ask questions, they stay after practice, they study film. You can’t teach that level of professionalism.”
Wallace, known for his deadly range and lockdown perimeter defense, has drawn national attention for his rapid growth as a two-way player. Meanwhile, Duncan’s physicality and rim protection have anchored Duke’s interior defense, turning heads from NBA scouts.
A Coach’s Dream
For Scheyer, who has now stepped fully into the pressure-cooker role once occupied by legendary coach Mike Krzyzewski, having a freshman class this mature has made his job not just easier — but more fulfilling.
“It’s a blessing,” he admitted. “As a coach, you live for the kind of buy-in we’ve had from this group. They’re coachable, they’re tough, they’re accountable. They make you excited to come to work every day.”
And it’s showing on the court. Duke enters the Final Four with one of the youngest starting lineups in the tournament, yet they’ve outpaced and outlasted more experienced squads with seasoned discipline and fearless energy — a direct reflection of this freshman core.
Legacy in the Making
With the nation watching and the spotlight brighter than ever, Scheyer’s young stars are now just two wins away from etching their names into Duke history.
Whether or not they cut down the nets this year, one thing is already clear: this freshman class has laid a foundation that could define the next era of Duke Basketball.
“They’re not just ready,” Scheyer said with a smile. “They’ve been ready from day one.”
And now, they’re ready for their biggest moment yet.
