DURHAM, N.C. – In a move that solidifies Duke’s core for next season, freshman standout Darren Harris has announced he will return to the Blue Devils for his sophomore year. The sharp-shooting guard made his decision public via a post on social media Monday afternoon, expressing his excitement to continue growing both on and off the court in Durham.
Harris was a key piece of Duke’s rotation this past season, earning a reputation as one of the most reliable three-point shooters in the ACC. His perimeter accuracy, combined with poise beyond his years, earned him significant minutes in high-pressure situations. His return gives the Blue Devils a major boost in backcourt depth and offensive firepower.
“Durham is home,” Harris wrote in his announcement. “I believe in what we’re building here, and I’m ready to keep working with my brothers to chase a national championship.” The statement was met with enthusiastic reactions from Duke fans, coaches, and teammates alike.
Duke head coach Jon Scheyer also responded to the news, praising Harris’s work ethic and leadership. “Darren is the kind of player every coach wants on their team,” Scheyer said. “His commitment to the team, attention to detail, and willingness to put in the work are special. We’re thrilled he’s coming back.”
Harris averaged 8.9 points per game during his freshman campaign, shooting over 42% from beyond the arc. His ability to stretch the floor created space for Duke’s offense, often opening up driving lanes and forcing defenders to stay honest on the perimeter.
While Harris wasn’t projected as a first-round pick in the NBA Draft, there was some speculation about him exploring professional options or entering the transfer portal. Instead, he chose loyalty, development, and another shot at glory in a Duke uniform.
The Blue Devils are expected to return several key players and welcome a highly-touted recruiting class, making them early contenders for a deep NCAA Tournament run next season. Harris’s experience and shooting will be crucial in anchoring that mix of youth and returning talent.
Beyond the court, Harris has been active in the Durham community and vocal about using his platform for positive change. His decision to stay reflects a maturity that extends far beyond basketball, making him a valuable presence in the locker room and on campus.
Fans across the Duke community were quick to share their excitement on social media, with many calling Harris’s return “one of the biggest offseason wins.” His decision comes at a time when college basketball is experiencing high transfer rates, making continuity even more significant for team chemistry.
As the Blue Devils begin to look ahead to summer workouts and next season’s schedule, Darren Harris’s return adds both stability and excitement. The sophomore-to-be will likely take on an even larger leadership role as he builds on a strong foundation from year one.
In a program known for producing stars and champions, Harris is poised to take the next step in his development. Duke’s future just got a lot brighter—with Darren Harris ready to run it back.
