Isaiah Evans: The Linchpin of Duke’s 2025-26 Blue Devil Roster
Following a Final Four appearance, the Duke Blue Devils are bracing for significant roster changes as several key players are expected to depart for the NBA draft or exhaust their eligibility. In this evolving landscape, sophomore guard/forward Isaiah Evans has emerged as a critical component for the 2025-26 season. His decision to return to Durham provides a vital foundation of experience and high-level potential for Coach Jon Scheyer’s squad.
Evans, a former five-star recruit from the 2024 class, showcased glimpses of his talent during his freshman campaign. Although he primarily came off the bench, averaging 6.8 points in just under 14 minutes per game across 36 appearances, his efficiency and shooting prowess were undeniable. He connected on an impressive 41.6% of his three-point attempts and 81.3% from the free-throw line, demonstrating a composure beyond his years in crucial moments. Notably, 81% of his field goal attempts and 78% of his successful shots were from beyond the arc, highlighting his role as a reliable three-point threat. He registered nine double-figure scoring games, including a standout 19-point performance against Florida State and a six-three-pointer outburst in a single half against Auburn.
With the anticipated departures of leading scorers like Cooper Flagg and potentially others, Evans is poised for a significant increase in his role and responsibilities. His return offers stability to a roster that will feature several talented but inexperienced freshmen. Evans’ ability to stretch the floor with his shooting and his developing offensive game could make him one of the ACC’s top scoring threats in his sophomore season.
Looking ahead to the 2025-26 roster, Evans is projected to step into a starting role, likely at shooting guard. This elevated position will allow him to showcase more of his offensive capabilities beyond his already established three-point proficiency. His athleticism and improving ability to create his own shot could transform him into a dynamic scorer for the Blue Devils.
The incoming freshman class is highlighted by five-star forward Cameron Boozer and four-star point guard Cayden Boozer, sons of former Duke legend Carlos Boozer, as well as five-star forward Nikolas Khamenia and four-star forward Shelton Henderson. While these talented freshmen are expected to make an immediate impact, Evans’ sophomore experience will be invaluable in guiding them and providing a consistent scoring presence.
The departure of key backcourt players like Tyrese Proctor and Sion James further underscores the importance of Evans’ return. His ability to play both guard and forward positions provides Coach Scheyer with versatility in constructing lineups. Alongside junior guard Caleb Foster and the freshman guards, Evans will be a key ball-handler and playmaker.
In his freshman scouting report, Jamie Shaw of On3 described Evans as a “lengthy prospect” with “fluid” movement and comfort handling the ball in transition. Shaw also noted his potential in the passing lanes due to his length and anticipation. While acknowledging that Evans needed to add weight and refine his jump shot consistency, the report highlighted his “high basketball IQ” and competitiveness. These attributes suggest that with a year of college experience and further development, Evans can evolve into a more complete offensive player.
Comparisons have been drawn between Evans and former Duke standout Brandon Ingram, another lengthy and skilled wing player. If Evans can continue to develop his mid-range game and physicality, he has the potential to follow a similar trajectory.
The 2025-26 Duke team will likely feature a blend of Evans’ sophomore experience, Foster’s junior leadership, and the raw talent of the highly touted freshman class. The projected starting lineup often includes Evans at shooting guard, pairing his scoring ability with the playmaking of Cayden Boozer at point guard, the versatility of Nikolas Khamenia at small forward, the all-around game of Cameron Boozer at power forward, and the rim protection of sophomore Patrick Ngongba II at center.
While the transfer portal remains a dynamic factor in college basketball roster construction, the confirmed return of Isaiah Evans provides a crucial building block for Duke. His combination of shooting, athleticism, and potential for growth makes him arguably the most important returning player and a cornerstone of the Blue Devils’ aspirations for another deep postseason run in 2026. His development and leadership will be instrumental in shaping the success of a team with high expectations and a blend of youthful talent and emerging experience.
