3 Duke Blue Devils transfer targets revealed by insider
The Duke Blue Devils are swinging big.
There are some immense talents already in the transfer portal, and it sounds like Jon Scheyer is recruiting some of the best.
On3 Sports insider Joe Tipton reported on Wednesday that Duke has at least three targets in mind:
- Flory Bidunga (Kansas)
- John Blackwell (Wisconsin)
- Juke Harris (Wake Forest)
The 6-foot-9 Bidunga just had a big season for the Jayhawks.
He put up 13.3 point and 9.0 rebounds per game. Bidunga also blocked 2.6 shots per contest to earn Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year honors.
He also was quite efficient on his interior shot diet, leading the conference in field goal percentage at 64.0%.
Blackwell improved in each of his three seasons with the Badgers, and he was an absolute star in 2025-26. He averaged 19.1 points, 5.1 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 1.1 steals per game.
He also shot 38.9% from 3-point range on 7.3 attempts from beyond the arc before the game, so he’s a big-time shooter.
Harris has one of the best names in the portal.
He also averaged 21.4 points per game this season for Wake Forest.
Scheyer probably won’t end up with all of these guys. But if he can get one or two, Duke’s team next season would benefit in a great way from such moves.
The Duke Blue Devils are once again expected to be active in the transfer portal, and according to insider reports, three intriguing targets have already emerged as potential additions to bolster the roster. As head coach Jon Scheyer continues to reshape the program’s approach, Duke is blending elite recruiting with experienced transfers who can contribute immediately in the highly competitive ACC.
One of the reported targets is Nik Khamenia, whose recent decision to enter the transfer portal has quickly drawn attention from several high-profile programs. Khamenia’s versatility is a major reason why he is attracting interest. He has the ability to impact the game in multiple ways, whether through scoring, rebounding, or defensive effort. For Duke, adding a player with that kind of flexibility would provide valuable depth and allow for more lineup combinations. His familiarity with high-level competition could also make him a seamless fit in Scheyer’s system, which emphasizes spacing, ball movement, and defensive intensity.
Another name gaining traction is Maliq Brown, who has already made the move from the Syracuse Orange to Duke. While technically no longer just a target, Brown’s arrival represents the type of player the Blue Devils are prioritizing in the portal. His defensive instincts, physicality, and ability to guard multiple positions make him an ideal complement to Duke’s traditionally talented but often younger roster. Insiders suggest that his addition could influence other transfer prospects, particularly those looking for a program where their role will be clearly defined and valued.
The third player linked to Duke is a rising guard prospect who has yet to officially commit but has been heavily monitored by the coaching staff. While the name has not been fully confirmed in all circles, reports indicate that Duke is targeting backcourt help to address depth and playmaking needs. In today’s college basketball landscape, having experienced guards is crucial, especially in late-game situations where decision-making and composure can determine outcomes. Scheyer and his staff appear focused on finding a player who can not only score but also facilitate offense and bring leadership to the floor.
What stands out about these reported targets is how they align with Duke’s evolving roster-building philosophy. Under Scheyer, the program is no longer relying solely on one-and-done freshmen, but instead incorporating transfers who bring experience and maturity. This hybrid approach has become increasingly common among top programs, as it allows teams to remain competitive while still developing young talent.
The transfer portal itself has become a central part of college basketball strategy, and Duke’s activity reflects an understanding of its importance. Identifying players who fit both the system and the culture is critical, and early indications suggest that the Blue Devils are being deliberate in their pursuit of talent. Each of the reported targets brings a different skill set, but all share the potential to make an immediate impact.
As the offseason progresses, the situation remains fluid, and additional names could emerge. However, the early focus on players like Nik Khamenia highlights Duke’s intent to stay aggressive in the portal. If these moves materialize, the Blue Devils could once again position themselves as a formidable contender in the ACC, combining youthful talent with experienced contributors to create a balanced and dangerous roster heading into the new season.
