Blue Devils in Hot Pursuit: Duke Sets Sights on Elite Shooting Guard Prospect Austin Goosby
When Head Coach Jon Scheyer steps onto the recruiting trail, there’s a clear objective in mind: land the nation’s most dynamic talents. This spring, Duke University has turned the spotlight onto one of high school basketball’s most electric scorers—shooting guard Austin Goosby of Saint Mary’s Academy (San Diego, CA).
A Scorer with a Complete Package
At 6’5″ and 195 pounds, Goosby combines length, athleticism, and an NBA-ready frame. He averaged 26.4 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game this season while shooting 47% from the field and 42% from three-point range. Beyond the box score, scouts rave about his footwork, off–ball movement, and ability to create separation with a lethal step-back jumper.
“Austin reminds me of some of the great two-way guards we’ve seen at Duke,” says longtime NBA scout Marcus Caldwell. “He has that blend of scoring instincts, defensive instincts, and the toughness to play multiple positions.”
Recruitment Heats Up
Duke’s coaching staff first observed Goosby during the Battle at the Boardwalk in Atlantic City last December, where he posted a game-high 28 points against a stacked Florida recruit squad. Since then, multiple unofficial visits to Durham and in-home workouts have been scheduled. According to sources close to the program, Duke has already extended a scholarship offer, with the Blue Devils pushing to make Goosby the centerpiece of their 2025 recruiting class.
“I’ve spoken with Coach Scheyer about Duke’s vision,” Goosby told reporters after his team’s CIF state playoff loss. “They see me fitting on both ends—protecting the rim and lighting it up from deep. It’s special when a program with Duke’s history sees what I bring to the table.”
A Landing Spot in the Blue Devil Backcourt
With veteran guards Jared McCain and Jeremy Roach set to declare for the NBA Draft, Duke’s backcourt will have significant openings. Goosby could seamlessly slot alongside rising star Tyrese Proctor, providing an infusion of perimeter scoring and defense. His versatility—capable of handling the ball in transition, spotting up in catch-and-shoot situations, or driving into the lane—aligns perfectly with Coach Scheyer’s motion-heavy, positionless offense.
Assistant Coach Nolan Smith, a former Duke All-American, has been personally involved in Goosby’s recruitment. “Austin’s work ethic stands out,” Smith shared. “He’s the first in the gym, last to leave. He studies film, picks apart defensive schemes, and always asks how he can improve. That drive is what makes champions.”
Beyond the Hardwood
Off the court, Goosby has maintained a 3.8 GPA and is deeply involved in community outreach, volunteering at youth basketball camps and mentoring underprivileged kids in San Diego. Duke’s emphasis on academic rigor and character development has struck a chord with Goosby and his family.
“My mom always told me, ‘Basketball will open doors, but education will build the house,’” Goosby explained. “Duke’s commitment to academics and life after basketball is a major reason why I’m so drawn to them.”
The Final Stretch
While top programs like Kansas, Michigan State, and UCLA remain in the mix, Duke’s consistent engagement and transparent plan have given them an early edge. Goosby is expected to make his decision by late May, just before the NBA Draft deadline, as Duke looks to lock down what could be their highest-rated guard recruit since Tyrese Maxey.
For Duke fans craving a return to Blue Devils’ glory on the national stage, Austin Goosby represents more than just another recruit—he’s a potential game-changer whose arrival could signal the dawn of another championship era in Durham.
