No Looking Back: Duke Moves On as Former Transfer Target Declares for NBA Draft
The landscape of college basketball continues to shift with each passing season, and few programs navigate those changes with as much poise and precision as Duke University. The Blue Devils recently made headlines as they opted not to pursue former Washington State standout Cedric Coward, following his official declaration for the 2025 NBA Draft—a move that signals both clarity and confidence from one of the nation’s most prestigious basketball programs.
Coward’s Rise and Decision
Cedric Coward entered the transfer portal earlier this spring after a productive season with Washington State, where he showcased himself as one of the most versatile wings in the Pac-12. Known for his elite athleticism, defensive intensity, and ability to contribute across multiple positions, Coward drew immediate attention from several high-major programs. Among those initially rumored to have strong interest was Duke.
However, the narrative changed quickly when Coward made the decision to enter his name into the NBA Draft. The 6-foot-6 junior, who averaged double figures in scoring and was praised for his hustle plays and court awareness, appears set on taking the next step in his basketball journey. And while Duke’s interest was genuine, the program responded swiftly and decisively once Coward chose the professional route.
Duke’s Message: Focused and Forward-Looking
In typical Duke fashion, the Blue Devils opted not to linger on the potential addition. Head coach Jon Scheyer and his staff have instead reaffirmed their commitment to building a roster centered on long-term development, team fit, and championship aspirations.
“We respect Cedric’s decision and wish him all the best in the NBA Draft,” said a source close to the program. “But here at Duke, we’re locked in on our vision—recruiting players who not only elevate our team, but who are ready to commit to what we’re building here in Durham.”
That message resonates clearly: Duke is not in the business of chasing short-term fixes. They’re building for banners. The program continues to attract some of the top high school talent in the country and has a loaded roster returning for the upcoming season, including standout underclassmen and promising recruits from the 2024 and 2025 classes.
Roster Strength and Recruiting Confidence
With or without Coward, the Blue Devils are in a strong position. Jon Scheyer has assembled a squad brimming with potential—athletic wings, sharpshooting guards, and dominant post players all dot Duke’s depth chart heading into the next season.
Top recruits such as Isaiah Evans and Cooper Flagg (if reclassified) are expected to bolster the rotation, while returning stars have another year of development under one of the best coaching staffs in college basketball. And while the transfer portal remains a tool in Duke’s arsenal, they’ve proven time and again that the heart of their program is home-grown excellence and NBA-level development.
NBA Dreams and Duke’s Lasting Legacy
Coward’s decision to turn pro is the latest example of the modern basketball player taking agency over their path. While some programs might see such a development as a setback, Duke instead sees it as a moment of clarity—a fork in the road where priorities are reaffirmed and the future is recalibrated.
As Coward prepares for workouts, combines, and the pre-draft process, the Blue Devils continue their off-season grind, laser-focused on returning to the Final Four and contending for another national championship.
Duke’s clear and measured response to Cedric Coward’s NBA Draft entry is more than just a recruitment decision—it’s a statement. The Blue Devils know who they are, what they stand for, and where they’re going. As the 2025 season draws closer, the message out of Durham is loud and unmistakable:
They’re not looking back—they’re building forward.
