Duke Blue Devils Enter 2025–26 College Basketball Season as Preseason Favorites with Unmatched Depth, Star Power, and Championship Expectations
The Duke Blue Devils enter the 2025–26 college basketball season perched near the top of every major preseason ranking, and for good reason. After a productive offseason, elite recruiting haul, and the return of key contributors, Jon Scheyer’s squad has positioned itself as not only the most talented roster in the country but perhaps the most complete. With legitimate aspirations of cutting down the nets in April, the Blue Devils have all the tools—experience, youth, defense, shooting, size, and leadership—to chase a sixth national championship.
As college basketball analysts compile their preseason top-25 rankings, Duke is a near-unanimous top-three team, and in many cases, the projected No. 1 overall. Much of that hype stems from the sheer volume of NBA-caliber talent that will be wearing Duke blue this season, both in the starting lineup and coming off the bench. But it’s more than just the names—it’s the roles, chemistry, and vision that Scheyer and his staff have carefully cultivated that set this group apart.
At the heart of Duke’s ascent is its loaded freshman class, widely regarded as the best in the nation. Headlined by consensus No. 1 overall recruit Jayden “Juke” Harris, this group has the potential to rival some of the most legendary classes in Duke history. Harris, a 6-foot-9 forward with guard skills, enters the season as a preseason All-American candidate despite not yet playing a minute of college basketball. His ability to score from all three levels, facilitate for others, and defend multiple positions makes him a game-changer on both ends of the floor.
Joining Harris are fellow five-star freshmen Caleb Wilson, Elijah Moore, and reclassified 7-foot-2 big man Khaman Maluach. Wilson brings a polished offensive game and positional versatility that will be crucial in the frontcourt, while Moore, a dynamic combo guard, adds depth to Duke’s perimeter attack. Maluach, a product of the NBA Academy Africa, is expected to make an immediate impact as a rim protector and lob threat, adding a vertical dimension to both ends of the court.
But the Blue Devils’ preseason No. 1 consideration isn’t solely based on freshmen. Duke returns a strong core of experienced players who elevate the team’s maturity and cohesion. Jared McCain, the sharpshooting sophomore guard, is back after testing the NBA Draft waters. Known for his clutch play, high basketball IQ, and three-point marksmanship, McCain will be counted on as one of the team’s leaders both on and off the court. His decision to return signaled a clear message: unfinished business.
Isaiah Evans, another high-upside sophomore, is poised to take a major leap after showing flashes of brilliance during his freshman campaign. His athleticism, shot creation, and defensive instincts suggest a breakout season is on the horizon. With increased minutes and confidence, Evans could easily emerge as one of the most improved players in the country.
Also joining the fold is Maliq Brown, the veteran forward transfer from Syracuse, who brings an edge and defensive intensity that Duke sorely needs. Though questions remain about the health of his left shoulder, if Brown is fully recovered, he will be the linchpin of Duke’s defensive strategy. His ability to switch across positions, crash the boards, and anchor the frontcourt adds a much-needed physical presence.
Returning wing Mark Mitchell gives Duke another experienced, versatile defender who can guard multiple positions and contribute offensively in spurts. His role may be more defined this year, which could allow him to play with more freedom and confidence. And don’t overlook sophomore center Sean Stewart, who brings energy, rebounding, and shot-blocking off the bench.
Jon Scheyer, now entering his fourth season as Duke’s head coach, has steadily put his imprint on the program. While his predecessor Mike Krzyzewski left an unmatched legacy, Scheyer has embraced the pressure and begun carving his own. His emphasis on spacing, pace, and defense aligns with today’s NBA standards, and he has proven adept at blending top-tier recruits with returning contributors. Last season’s tournament disappointment has only fueled the fire in Durham, and this year’s group seems hungrier, deeper, and more balanced.
Offensively, the Blue Devils figure to be one of the most efficient units in the country. With shooters like McCain and Moore spacing the floor, and playmakers like Harris and Wilson operating in pick-and-roll sets, Duke can attack from anywhere. Maluach provides vertical spacing as a roll man, while Brown and Mitchell can exploit mismatches in the post or on the break. Transition play should be a strength, with Duke’s length and athleticism translating into fast-break opportunities.
On the defensive end, the Blue Devils have the personnel to be elite. Harris and Evans can guard wings and switch seamlessly, Brown can defend bigs or hedge out on guards, and Maluach is a natural shot-blocker with a high motor. Scheyer is expected to use more zone concepts this year, incorporating length and activity to force turnovers and bad shots. The defensive rotation, if healthy and bought in, could rank among the nation’s top five.
What truly separates this Duke team from others in recent memory is its depth. For the first time in years, the Blue Devils can comfortably go 9–10 deep without a significant drop-off in talent. Bench players like Stewart, Moore, and possibly even another late-summer transfer will all play critical roles in preserving energy for a deep tournament run. That depth also gives Scheyer flexibility—he can go big, small, fast, or physical depending on the opponent.
The early-season schedule will test Duke immediately. Matchups against top-tier programs in the Champions Classic and other non-conference showcases will offer a litmus test for just how good this team can be. But it’s not just about the November and December battles. The long-term goal is clear: cutting down the nets in April. With the ACC looking more competitive this year, Duke will need to stay focused, healthy, and adaptable.
There are, of course, some question marks. The integration of so many freshmen always carries risk, especially when several are expected to play major roles. Team chemistry, while promising on paper, must be earned through practice and adversity. And injuries, as always, loom in the background. Maliq Brown’s shoulder, Maluach’s adjustment to the speed of college play, and McCain’s durability across a full season will all be monitored closely.
Still, the pros far outweigh the cons. The talent is undeniable. The coaching staff is experienced and aligned. The motivation is sky-high. And the expectations? Well, those are nothing new in Durham.
Duke fans have seen top-ranked preseason teams before. They’ve witnessed freshman-led groups that soared, and others that stumbled. But there’s something different about the 2025–26 version of the Blue Devils. This team doesn’t just want to be great—they expect it. And they’ve assembled the roster to match those lofty goals.
Whether it ends in Houston with confetti falling and a banner being prepped for Cameron Indoor Stadium remains to be seen. But as the preseason rankings roll in, and pundits debate who truly deserves the top spot, one thing is clear: the Duke Blue Devils are the team to beat.
And in the minds of many, they’re already No. 1.
