Celebrating Excellence: Reigan Richardson and Andrew McAdorey Shine as Duke’s 2024–25 Senior Student-Athletes of the Year
In the realm of collegiate athletics, few honors resonate as profoundly as the title of Senior Student-Athlete of the Year. This distinction not only acknowledges athletic prowess but also celebrates academic excellence, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the university’s values. For the 2024–25 academic year, Duke University proudly bestowed this honor upon two exemplary individuals: Reigan Richardson and Andrew McAdorey. Their journeys, marked by dedication, resilience, and outstanding achievements, serve as a testament to the holistic development fostered within Duke’s athletic programs.
Reigan Richardson, a senior guard for the Duke women’s basketball team, epitomized the essence of a student-athlete. Hailing from Charlotte, North Carolina, Richardson’s basketball journey began at the Cannon School, where she showcased her exceptional talent, leading her team to a state championship and earning accolades such as the Charlotte Observer’s 2020 State of North Carolina Player of the Year. Her transition to Duke was seamless, as she quickly became a cornerstone of the Blue Devils’ lineup.
Throughout the 2024–25 season, Richardson’s contributions were nothing short of remarkable. She started all 37 games, averaging 9.7 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per contest. Her leadership on the court was instrumental in Duke’s third consecutive 20-win season, culminating in a 29–8 record, an ACC Tournament title, and a 12th Elite Eight appearance in the NCAA Tournament. Notably, Richardson reached a significant milestone by surpassing 1,000 career points, finishing her collegiate career with 1,174 total points, 1,004 of which were scored at Duke, placing her among the elite 36 players in the program’s history to achieve this feat.
Her individual accolades further underscore her exceptional performance. Richardson was named the Associated Press National Player of the Week in December 2024, following a stellar week where she averaged 23.3 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game, leading Duke to victories over top-10 opponents. She also earned the ACC Co-Player of the Week honor during the same period. Her career-high 35-point game against No. 8 Oklahoma set a Duke record for the most points scored against a top-10 opponent, solidifying her legacy in the program’s history.
Off the court, Richardson’s academic achievements were equally impressive. She was named to the All-ACC Academic Team in both 2023 and 2024, reflecting her commitment to excellence in the classroom. Her leadership extended beyond basketball, as she served as a role model for her peers, embodying the values of discipline, teamwork, and perseverance.
Andrew McAdorey, a senior guard for the Duke men’s basketball team, mirrored Richardson’s dedication and excellence. McAdorey’s journey to Duke was marked by his tenure at the prestigious Montverde Academy, where he honed his skills and developed a reputation as a formidable player. His transition to collegiate basketball was marked by immediate impact, as he became an integral part of the Blue Devils’ lineup.
In the 2024–25 season, McAdorey’s contributions were pivotal to Duke’s success. He played a crucial role in the team’s performance, showcasing his skills and leadership on the court. His ability to perform under pressure and his commitment to the team’s objectives were evident throughout the season. McAdorey’s achievements were not limited to athletic performance; his academic endeavors and leadership qualities were also noteworthy.
Like Richardson, McAdorey’s academic excellence was a testament to his commitment to a balanced collegiate experience. He was recognized for his scholarly achievements, earning accolades that highlighted his dedication to his studies. His leadership extended beyond the basketball court, as he actively engaged in community service and mentored younger teammates, fostering a culture of excellence and camaraderie within the team.
The recognition of Richardson and McAdorey as Duke’s Senior Student-Athletes of the Year is a reflection of their outstanding contributions to their respective teams and the university. Their achievements serve as an inspiration to current and future student-athletes, illustrating the importance of balancing athletic excellence with academic and personal development. Their stories are a testament to the holistic approach to student-athlete development championed by Duke University, where success is measured not only by athletic performance but also by academic achievement, leadership, and character.
