In a move that has left college basketball fans buzzing, Patrick Ngongba, a star player who had previously made waves with his remarkable talents, has announced his return to the Duke Blue Devils for his sophomore season. The decision has sent shockwaves throughout the sport, and many are already speculating about the immense impact Ngongba will have not just on the Blue Devils but on the entire landscape of NCAA basketball in the coming years.
A Surprising Announcement
On a crisp spring morning, as the college basketball world adjusted to the usual off-season lull, a surprise announcement shattered expectations. Patrick Ngongba, a player whose name had been circulating for a potential jump to the NBA following his freshman year, declared that he would be returning to Duke University instead. This decision, unexpected as it was, has stunned analysts, coaches, and fans alike, many of whom had assumed Ngongba would enter the NBA Draft, given his impressive freshman campaign.
His return to the Blue Devils isn’t just a personal victory for Ngongba but a monumental shift for the program, the ACC, and the broader basketball scene.
The Rise of Patrick Ngongba
Before his standout freshman year at Duke, Patrick Ngongba was a highly touted recruit, ranked among the top prospects in his class. Standing at 6’9″ with an athletic frame, he was a force both offensively and defensively, blending size with agility in a way few players could match. Ngongba quickly adapted to the rigorous demands of college basketball, showcasing his versatility by being able to stretch the floor, crash the boards, and guard multiple positions.
During his freshman season, Ngongba averaged 14.2 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 3.4 blocks per game. His ability to dominate both ends of the court made him an immediate star for the Blue Devils. His most memorable performance came in a thrilling ACC game against Syracuse, where he recorded 24 points, 15 rebounds, and 5 blocks, leading Duke to a crucial victory.
This dominance didn’t go unnoticed. NBA scouts were already circling, impressed by his combination of size, athleticism, and skills. Many predicted that Ngongba could be a lottery pick in the upcoming NBA Draft, which is why his decision to return to Duke came as such a shock.
Why Did Ngongba Return?
The obvious question on everyone’s mind is why Ngongba chose to return to college instead of taking the leap to the NBA. After all, his stock was as high as it could get, and entering the draft seemed like a natural next step in his basketball journey. However, a combination of factors likely played into his decision.
1. Unfinished Business at Duke:
Ngongba’s time at Duke has been nothing short of spectacular, but it’s clear that he feels there is more for him to accomplish. Coach Mike Krzyzewski, in his final seasons at the helm, had begun rebuilding the Blue Devils into a championship contender, but the team fell short in the 2024 NCAA Tournament, falling to eventual champions, the Kansas Jayhawks, in a tense Final Four matchup. For Ngongba, the desire to help lead Duke to a national title is palpable, and with several key players from that squad returning, the Blue Devils are poised to make another deep run in March Madness.
2. Developing His Game Further:
While Ngongba is an already refined player, his potential is far from fully realized. There are areas of his game he still needs to develop, particularly his outside shooting and ball-handling skills. Another year in college under the tutelage of Duke’s coaching staff will allow him to refine these areas and add new dimensions to his game. By returning for another year, he gives himself the opportunity to evolve into a more complete player, which would better prepare him for a successful transition to the NBA.
3. NIL Opportunities:
Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals have revolutionized college athletics, and Ngongba’s marketability as a top-tier player at one of the most prestigious basketball programs in the nation is undeniable. The financial incentives of staying in college, where he can sign endorsement deals, build his personal brand, and capitalize on his fame, have certainly played a role in his decision. With social media and a growing presence in the basketball world, Ngongba’s NIL potential could exceed what he would earn as a rookie in the NBA, making his return to college more financially viable.
4. The Impact of Duke’s New Coaching Staff:
A new era has begun at Duke with Coach Jon Scheyer, who took over from Krzyzewski. Scheyer, known for his emphasis on player development, is highly regarded as an excellent coach who will continue to elevate Duke’s program. Ngongba’s decision to stay could be influenced by his belief in Scheyer’s vision for the future and the chance to work closely with him to refine his skills before making the leap to the NBA.
Impact on Duke’s 2025 Season
Ngongba’s return to Duke has immediately turned the Blue Devils into one of the favorites to win the national title in 2025. With a team that already includes elite prospects and experienced players, his presence solidifies their standing as one of the most complete teams in college basketball.
Duke’s roster will be stacked with talent, including a talented point guard, top-tier wings, and multiple forwards who can score and defend. With Ngongba anchoring the paint, Duke now has a player who can dominate both ends of the floor. His ability to protect the rim and rebound at an elite level gives the Blue Devils a significant advantage in one of the most competitive conferences in the nation, the ACC.
The ACC is expected to be as competitive as ever in 2025, with programs like North Carolina, Virginia, and Miami all poised for strong seasons. However, with Ngongba in the fold, Duke is now arguably the most talented team in the conference, if not the entire country. His presence will undoubtedly attract attention from fans and media alike, but it will also make life much harder for opposing teams, who will have to find ways to slow down a player of Ngongba’s caliber.
The Future of Patrick Ngongba
Looking ahead, Patrick Ngongba’s future in basketball is as bright as ever. His decision to return to Duke for another year speaks volumes about his dedication to improving and achieving greatness. When he eventually makes the jump to the NBA, there’s no doubt that he will be one of the most highly anticipated prospects in the league.
Whether he ends up as a top-5 pick or lower in the first round, Ngongba will be a force to be reckoned with. His combination of size, athleticism, and versatility will make him a valuable asset for any team looking for a player who can contribute immediately. The NBA will undoubtedly benefit from his talents, but for now, college basketball fans will get the chance to witness one more season of Ngongba’s dominance in the college game.
Patrick Ngongba’s shocking decision to return to Duke University for his sophomore season is a game-changer for the Blue Devils and for college basketball as a whole. His decision reflects his desire to develop further as a player, lead Duke to a national championship, and capitalize on the growing opportunities afforded by NIL deals. With Ngongba back in the fold, Duke is poised to be a title contender, and the entire college basketball world is now watching closely to see how this young star’s journey unfolds.
The 2025 NCAA Tournament is sure to be an unforgettable one, and it’s all thanks to the return of one of college basketball’s brightest stars, Patrick Ngongba. The stage is set for a season that could leave a lasting legacy on the sport.
