Isaiah Evans is poised to be one of the most pivotal players on Duke basketball’s 2025–26 roster. A 6-foot-6 guard/forward from Huntersville, North Carolina, Evans made an immediate impact during his freshman season, averaging 7.7 points per game on 44.7% shooting, including 45.8% from beyond the arc. His sharpshooting ability and defensive potential make him a key contributor to the Blue Devils’ aspirations for a national championship.
Early Life and High School Career
Evans attended North Mecklenburg High School, where he emerged as one of the top high school basketball players in the country. He was named North Carolina Mr. Basketball in both 2023 and 2024 and earned McDonald’s All-American honors. In his senior year, he led his team to a state championship, averaging 27.4 points, 6.1 rebounds, 3.2 assists, and 2.3 steals per game .
Freshman Season at Duke
Evans’ freshman season at Duke was marked by significant contributions off the bench. He showcased his scoring prowess, particularly from three-point range, and demonstrated an ability to perform in high-pressure situations. Notable performances include:
- 18 points against Auburn, hitting 6 of 8 three-pointers in just 16 minutes of play .
- 17 points against Virginia, shooting 5 of 6 from beyond the arc .
- 16 points against Boston College, including four three-pointers .
These performances highlighted his potential as a dynamic scorer and a reliable option for Duke’s offense.
Strengths and Areas for Development
Evans possesses several strengths that make him a valuable asset to the Blue Devils:
- Three-Level Scoring: He is proficient at scoring from beyond the arc, mid-range, and around the rim.
- Unlimited Range: Evans shoots confidently from deep, with the ability to make tough shots regularly.
- Defensive Disruptor: He uses his length, instincts, and active hands to create turnovers and disrupt opposing offenses .
However, there are areas where Evans can improve:
- Physical Strength: He needs to add weight and strength to compete with physical defenders at the next level.
- Shot Selection: Evans occasionally settles for contested or low-percentage shots.
- Consistency on Defense: He must commit to locking in defensively on every possession.
- First Step Explosiveness: Evans sometimes struggles to create separation against quicker defenders.
Addressing these areas will be crucial for his development and for Duke’s success in the upcoming season.
Outlook for the 2025–26 Season
With the departure of key players, Evans is expected to take on a more prominent role in Duke’s lineup. His scoring ability and defensive potential make him a candidate for a starting position. Additionally, his leadership and experience will be invaluable as the team integrates new talent from the 2025 recruiting class.
Duke’s 2025 recruiting class includes:
- Cameron Boozer: A highly touted prospect expected to make an immediate impact.
- Cayden Boozer: Another top recruit bringing depth to the roster.
- Nikolas Khamenia: A promising player adding versatility to the team.
The integration of these new players, combined with Evans’ development, positions Duke as a legitimate championship contender in the 2025–26 season.
Isaiah Evans’ blend of scoring ability, defensive potential, and leadership makes him a cornerstone of Duke basketball’s future. As he continues to develop and take on a larger role, Evans has the opportunity to elevate both his game and the Blue Devils’ aspirations for a national title. His journey from a highly decorated high school player to a key contributor at Duke exemplifies the program’s commitment to excellence and its focus on developing players to their fullest potential.
