On The Bubble to Return, Transfer or Head to the NBA

Center Patrick Ngongba II faces a significant decision regarding whether to return to Duke or enter the NBA draft. Currently, Ngongba is projected to be a late first-round to early second-round pick. However, if he opts to go back to school, he could potentially improve his draft stock for the 2027 draft. With two years of eligibility remaining, it would be wise for Ngongba to consider spending another year in college to further develop his skills.

Freshman forward Dame Sarr always believed he would be a one-and-done player, but now there’s a real chance he might stay at Duke for another season. Throughout the year, Sarr struggled to establish himself as a scoring threat, and if he opts to enter the draft, he could very well find himself projected as a second-round pick.

Caleb Foster is unlikely to head to the NBA, and he may not return to Duke for his senior season either. Foster played a remarkable role for the Blue Devils this year, but if he wants to continue his college basketball career, he might have to do it elsewhere. The Blue Devils should be able to welcome back promising guard Cayden Boozer for another season, and they are bringing in one of the top guards from the 2026 high school class, Deron Rippey Jr., which could leave Foster without a job.

Players Who Have Entered The Transfer Portal

As of Thursday, the Blue Devils have witnessed two players enter the transfer portal: guard Darren Harris and forward Nikolas Khamenia. Both are young talents, with Harris finishing up his sophomore season and Khamenia wrapping up his freshman year. They should have no trouble finding a new program where they can step into starting roles next season.