Italian 5-Star Phenom Dame Sarr Commits to Duke, Reveals Cameron Crazies Played Key Role in His Decision

Duke’s storied basketball program has long been known for its blue-blood pedigree, championship banners, and NBA talent pipeline. But for Italian sensation Dame Sarr, one of the most electrifying international prospects in the 2025 recruiting class, it wasn’t just the on-court legacy that drew him to Durham—it was the chaos, the charisma, and the culture of the Cameron Crazies.

In an exclusive interview following his commitment to Duke, the 5-star guard, currently starring for Overtime Elite, said the “unmatched energy” inside Cameron Indoor Stadium played a pivotal role in his decision. “It’s different,” Sarr said. “There’s nowhere like Duke. The fans are crazy—but in the best way. You walk in there and feel like you’re part of something legendary.”

Dame Sarr’s rise to prominence has been nothing short of meteoric. Born in Bologna, Italy, Sarr cut his teeth in the competitive Italian youth system before making a bold leap across the Atlantic to join Overtime Elite in the United States. The transition came with the usual growing pains, but his skillset—highlighted by explosive athleticism, silky shooting mechanics, and elite basketball IQ—translated seamlessly.

By the time he wrapped up his first year in Atlanta, Sarr was already drawing interest from blue-blood programs like Kentucky, Kansas, and UCLA. Yet it was Duke’s consistent pursuit—and one unforgettable visit—that separated the Blue Devils from the rest.

“I had watched videos of the Cameron Crazies, but being there in person was something else,” said Sarr. “They made me feel like family right away. They even had Italian flags, chants with my name, some of them even tried to speak Italian. That meant a lot.”

Duke head coach Jon Scheyer has been quietly assembling a formidable class, and Sarr is the jewel in the crown. Ranked among the top 10 players in the country by ESPN and 247Sports, Sarr projects as a combo guard capable of leading the offense while also playing off the ball.

Scheyer’s relationship-building acumen was crucial in the recruitment. “Coach Scheyer really believed in me,” Sarr noted. “He wasn’t just selling me on the NBA pipeline or banners. He talked to me about leadership, responsibility, and legacy. He told me I could be one of the guys who brings another title to Duke.”

According to sources close to the program, Scheyer sees Sarr as a cornerstone of his 2025-26 roster—someone who can operate similarly to how Tyus Jones once commanded the floor or how RJ Barrett slashed and created.

The Cameron Crazies have always played a unique role in Duke recruiting. Whether it’s custom posters, viral chant campaigns, or coordinated social media pushes, the student section has evolved into an unofficial recruiting arm for the program. For international players like Sarr, who may not have grown up immersed in college basketball culture, the Crazies provide an unforgettable introduction to the Duke mystique.

“After my official visit, I kept thinking about the energy in that gym,” said Sarr. “The fans know every stat, every chant, every opponent. They care about you, and they’ll push you to be your best.”

On the night of Sarr’s visit, Duke hosted a primetime ACC matchup. Sources inside the program revealed that several fans in the front row wore Bologna Virtus jerseys and held signs reading “Benvenuto Dame!” and “La leggenda inizia qui”—which translates to “The legend begins here.”

“It’s hard not to feel that love,” Sarr laughed. “I’ll remember that night forever.”

Sarr is part of a growing trend in college basketball: elite international players choosing the NCAA route over pro options in Europe or the G-League. For years, American colleges struggled to compete with the financial incentives offered by overseas pro leagues. But with the rise of NIL and platforms like Overtime Elite bridging the gap between high school and college, more global talents are considering the college route.

“I had some offers to go pro in Europe, sure,” said Sarr. “But I wanted the college experience. I wanted to play in front of fans, to feel the school pride. At Duke, I get that—plus I’m playing against the best, being coached by the best, and developing in a way that prepares me for the NBA.”

Sarr is expected to be a one-and-done prospect, and NBA scouts are already buzzing about his potential. His 6-foot-5 frame, lightning-quick first step, and two-way potential have drawn comparisons to a young Jamal Murray. But those close to him insist that his biggest asset is his mental approach.

“He watches film like a pro already,” said his Overtime Elite coach. “He’s one of the most mature 18-year-olds I’ve ever coached. And he’s not afraid of the moment.”

The Blue Devils are expected to lose several upperclassmen to the NBA after the 2024-25 season, opening the door for Sarr to take on a major role immediately. With elite spacing shooters and rangy wings flanking him, Sarr will have plenty of room to operate and create.

“I’m ready to compete,” he said. “But more than that, I’m ready to win. That’s why I chose Duke. It’s not just about highlights. It’s about banners.”

Sarr’s commitment adds another layer of excitement to an already loaded incoming class. His presence, combined with top-tier recruits and potential returners, positions Duke as a national title contender.

“The plan is to win right away,” said Sarr. “I know what Duke means in the world of basketball. And I want to be part of that history.”

When asked what message he had for the Cameron Crazies, Sarr didn’t hesitate. “Thank you,” he said, smiling. “You guys helped bring me here. Now it’s time to go to work. I’ll give you everything I’ve got.”

He also hinted that fans might see a little flair on opening night. “Maybe I’ll break out a little Italian celebration for the Crazies,” he joked. “We’ll see.”

Before he sets foot on campus, Sarr still has one more season with Overtime Elite, where he’ll look to refine his skills and build on his growing resume. But make no mistake—his eyes are firmly set on Durham.

“I think about it every day,” he said. “The locker room, the walk through the tunnel, the anthem playing, the Crazies going wild. I can’t wait.”

Dame Sarr’s journey from Bologna to Durham is a testament to the global reach of college basketball and the enduring allure of Duke’s brand. But it’s also a reminder that sometimes, it’s not just the coaches, the stats, or the trophies that sway a decision—it’s the passion of a student section chanting your name, making you feel like you belong before you even arrive.

And if Sarr’s future in blue lives up to the hype, the Cameron Crazies may have just recruited a future legend.