“Isaiah Evans has accomplished the unthinkable by walking away from the NBA Dream and giving Duke an additional year! You won’t believe the reason

In a decision that has reverberated throughout the college basketball community, Duke Blue Devils guard Isaiah Evans has chosen to withdraw from the 2025 NBA Draft and return to Durham for his sophomore season. This move, while surprising to some, underscores a strategic approach to personal development and team contribution.

Evans’ freshman year showcased his potential as a formidable shooting guard. Averaging 6.8 points per game with an impressive 41.6% shooting from beyond the arc, he demonstrated his prowess as a sharpshooter. Despite limited minutes, his efficiency and scoring ability did not go unnoticed. However, recognizing the need for further development, Evans opted to forego the draft and focus on enhancing his skills at the collegiate level.

One of the primary factors influencing Evans’ decision is the opportunity for increased playing time and a more significant role in the upcoming season. With several key players from Duke’s roster declaring for the draft, including Cooper Flagg and Tyrese Proctor, Evans is poised to step into a leadership position. This expanded role will allow him to refine his game, particularly in areas such as defense, playmaking, and physical conditioning.

Additionally, the evolving landscape of college athletics, particularly the advent of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities, provides athletes like Evans with financial incentives to remain in school. These endorsements offer a viable alternative to the uncertain financial prospects of a second-round NBA draft pick or a two-way contract.

Evans’ return also aligns with Duke’s strategic objectives. His presence adds depth and experience to a team integrating new talent, including the highly anticipated Boozer twins and other top recruits. His leadership and on-court performance will be instrumental in guiding the team through a competitive season.

In summary, Isaiah Evans’ decision to return to Duke reflects a calculated approach to career development, balancing immediate professional aspirations with long-term growth and contribution to his collegiate team. As he prepares for the upcoming season, both Evans and the Blue Devils stand to benefit from this pivotal choice.

 

Duke Lands 7’2” Cameron Boozer — Is He the Missing Piece to Their National Championship Dreams?

In a move that sent shockwaves through the college basketball world and brought cheers across Cameron Indoor Stadium, the Duke Blue Devils have landed the most dominant high school big man in the country: Cameron Boozer, a towering 7-foot-2 forward/center with generational talent—and a last name already etched in Blue Devil history.

The commitment, announced during a nationally televised special on Monday, has ignited a fresh wave of optimism for Duke’s national championship hopes. As head coach Jon Scheyer enters the next phase of his post-Krzyzewski era, the question everyone is now asking: Is Cameron Boozer the missing piece to return Duke to March Madness glory?

A Blue Devil by Blood

Cameron Boozer is no stranger to Duke blue. His father, Carlos Boozer, starred for the Blue Devils from 1999 to 2002, helping lead the program to a national championship in 2001 under legendary head coach Mike Krzyzewski. Now, over two decades later, his son arrives with the same competitive fire—and perhaps even greater potential.

“It feels like a full circle,” Cameron said at his commitment ceremony. “My dad laid the foundation, and now I get to build on that legacy. Duke feels like home. Always has.”

The announcement was met with an immediate response from the basketball world. Coach Scheyer, speaking shortly after Boozer’s decision, expressed both excitement and confidence in what the young phenom will bring to the program.

“Cameron isn’t just a phenomenal player—he’s a fierce competitor and a great teammate,” Scheyer said. “He’s got the skill set to impact the game in every way, and he understands what Duke basketball is about.”

A Once-in-a-Generation Talent

Boozer’s skill set is jaw-dropping. At 7-foot-2 with a 7-foot-5 wingspan, he brings elite rim protection and post dominance. But unlike many traditional bigs, his game extends far beyond the paint. He has a silky mid-range jumper, excellent passing ability, and a high basketball IQ that allows him to read double teams, space the floor, and anchor a defense.

Over his high school career, Boozer averaged 25.6 points, 13.2 rebounds, and 4.8 blocks per game, while shooting over 58% from the field and 38% from beyond the arc. Scouting reports have praised his fluidity, maturity, and ability to lead from the front.

“He’s a unicorn,” said one NBA scout. “He’s got the defensive instincts of Anthony Davis and the offensive polish of a young Pau Gasol. He’s not just the No. 1 player in his class—he’s one of the best big men prospects we’ve seen in years.”

Boozer also brings a strong defensive presence that Duke has arguably lacked in recent years. His ability to alter shots, hedge on pick-and-rolls, and clean the glass could turn the Blue Devils into one of the top defensive units in the country.

The Championship Window Swings Open

For all of Duke’s storied history, recent seasons have been marked by early tournament exits and near-misses. After Coach K’s retirement, Jon Scheyer’s teams have hovered on the edge of greatness—reaching an Elite Eight and producing multiple NBA talents—but a national title has remained elusive.

The 2025–26 roster, however, might be the most balanced and dangerous since the Zion Williamson–R.J. Barrett era.

With Boozer now anchoring the frontcourt, Duke boasts a lineup that includes returning guard Tyrese Proctor, sharpshooter Jared McCain, and rising sophomore standout Isaiah Evans. The mix of veteran leadership, young athleticism, and now dominant size makes the Blue Devils legitimate title contenders.

“Adding Boozer changes everything,” said ESPN analyst and former Duke player Jay Williams. “He gives you interior dominance on both ends. Duke now has the pieces to win in March—and to win big.”

Duke’s offense will also benefit from Boozer’s presence. His ability to command double-teams will open up the perimeter for shooters like McCain and Evans, while his rebounding ensures the team can control pace and tempo.

Living Up to the Name

Being the son of a college basketball legend comes with pressure. But if there’s one thing Boozer has never shied away from, it’s expectations.

In fact, many believe that Cameron has already stepped out of his father’s shadow. While Carlos was a bruising post player known for his strength and rebounding, Cameron is a new-age big man—mobile, skilled, and capable of stretching the floor.

“He respects his dad’s legacy, but he’s built his own name,” said high school coach Larry Combs. “Cameron has always worked like he has something to prove. That’s what makes him special.”

He also brings a maturity beyond his years. Throughout his recruitment, Boozer prioritized culture, fit, and education—choosing Duke not just for its basketball pedigree, but for the family atmosphere and shared values.

“He’s the full package,” Scheyer added. “He’s humble, hungry, and he’s ready for the big stage.”

A Changing of the Guard

Boozer’s commitment is also a statement in the broader college basketball landscape. In an era of NIL deals, transfer portals, and rapid player movement, Duke continues to attract top-tier talent and uphold its reputation as a pipeline to the pros.

It also signals a potential shift in the power structure of the NCAA. Programs like Kansas, UConn, and Alabama have surged in recent years, but Duke’s reloaded roster suggests the Blue Devils are ready to reclaim their place atop the college basketball mountain.

With Boozer at the center—literally and figuratively—the program has a foundation to chase not just tournament success, but sustained dominance.

Looking Ahead

As Cameron Boozer prepares to step onto Coach K Court for the first time in a Blue Devils uniform, the anticipation will be enormous. The spotlight will be intense. Every move will be scrutinized. And yet, if his past performance is any indication, Boozer won’t just rise to the occasion—he’ll thrive in it.

Expectations will be sky-high. But perhaps that’s just how Boozer likes it.

“My dream wasn’t just to play at Duke,” he said, standing next to his parents. “It was to win at Duke. I’m ready.”

And so is Duke Nation.

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Sidebar: Boozer’s Stats at a Glance

• Height: 7’2”
• Weight: 245 lbs
• High School: Christopher Columbus (Miami, FL)
• Points per Game: 25.6
• Rebounds per Game: 13.2
• Blocks per Game: 4.8
• Field Goal %: 58%
• 3-Point %: 38%

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Timeline of Recent Duke Recruiting Landmarks

• 2023: Tyrese Proctor returns for sophomore season
• 2024: Cooper Flagg commits and leads team to Elite Eight
• 2025: Cameron Boozer commits as top player in his class
• 2026 (projected): Top-3 preseason ranking for Duke Blue Devils

‘Choking dog losers’: Dave Portnoy attacks Duke after disputed Final Four finish blows $193k winning bet

Duke’s March Madness dream came to an end in the Final Four as Houston staged an incredible comeback to win the national title.

On Saturday night, the Cougars defeated the Blue Devils 70-67 by scoring nine points in 33 seconds, ending Cooper Flagg’s collegiate career.

Houston upset Duke and reached the championship game for the first time since 1984. Credit: Getty.

Houston had been on the verge of a national championship game for over 40 years, but had lost seven consecutive Final Fours, the most of any DI school in the NCAA entering the 2025 tournament.

And with three minutes left in the game against the Blue Devils, the Cougars were on the verge of eight points, trailing 64-55 with 2:15 remaining.

Nonetheless, with a 3-pointer, a no-room-to-breathe defense, and a little luck, Houston ended their Final Four losing run with a remarkable 11-1 comeback to reach their first championship game since 1984.

Duke’s March Madness was not expected to conclude this way.

Cooper Flagg, distraught, fights back tears after Duke’s shocking Final Four loss

Cooper Flagg’s hidden skill ties the potential NBA player to LeBron and Curry.

With Cooper Flagg, the anticipated No.1 choice in the 2025 NBA Draft, and a star-studded lineup, the Blue Devils were expected to win the tournament.

In a men’s Final Four featuring all No. 1 seeds, the Blue Devils received more bets and money to win the championship than any other school.

Dave Portnoy of Barstool Sports placed an especially large bet on Duke in the form of a four-pick parlay.

He instructed Cougars guard Emanuel Sharp to shoot three or more three-pointers – check.

Angel Reese pairs up with Lewis Hamilton to set a $26 million aim in the WNBA first.

Draymond Green gloats mid-game, leaving Charles Barkley mortified by the Warriors forecast.

Caitlin Clark breaks 10-year WNBA record after Angel Reese’s mom pokes fun at her followers.

Shaq forced an NBA rule change with his relentless display of dominance that damaged equipment.

Portnoy also predicted Kon Knueppel to score 15 or more points – check.

He said Flagg will plummet more than 20 points – check.

Flagg scored 27 points, and Duke was defeated in the Final Four. Credit: Getty.

Barstool founder Portnoy has a lot of money riding on the game. Credit: Getty.

All Portnoy needed was Duke to win to make his $25,000 wager worth $193,750.

But the Blue Devils fell short, dashing his expectations.

“That’s crazy,” a surprised Portnoy said as he saw the Cougars pull off an unexpected triumph.

He then resorted to social media to call Duke ‘choking dog losers’.

“That has to go down as one of the greatest chokes in history of sports,” he wrote on X.

“Congrats, Duke. You will always be known as “choking dog losers.”

Duke were favored to win the tournament until they fell out in the Final Four. Credit: Getty.

🤢🤢🤢 pic.twitter.com/pnPuH3LM3S

— Dave Portnoy (@stoolpresidente) April 6, 2025

He also took aim at supporters who blamed the defeat on Flagg’s late call.

With seconds left, the 18-year-old was called for an over-the-back foul on a free throw attempt, which many think influenced the game’s outcome.

Replays revealed little contact, and social media exploded with fans and commentators both criticizing the officiating.

“That was an absolutely awful foul call on Cooper Flagg. No way. “No way,” ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith wrote on X.

However, Portnoy remained unconvinced.

“Duke fans complaining about this foul call are babies,” he added, posting a video of the event.

“You blew it. You could not inbound the ball. You dribbled it from your leg. Tyrese Proctor played hero ball and missed a free shot.

“A million opportunities to clinch it, and you’re going to criticize the referee? Losers speak to losers.”

If Duke had won, the Barstool founder might have made $25,000 into more than $193,000. Credit: X@stoolpresidente.

Duke hasn’t won the men’s NCAA Tournament since 2015. Credit: Getty.

“I hate Duke,” he wrote on Sunday.

Houston, which has never won a national championship, will face Florida on Monday night after defeating Duke in the Final Four.

The Gators, led by Walter Clayton Jr., defeated Auburn 79-73 in the early game.

Flagg’s post-game news conference was likely his last as a Blue Devil, as he seemed devastated and fought back tears.

Five-star Duke commit responds to significant announcement prior to freshman season

Under the guidance of head coach Jon Scheyer and his staff, the Duke Blue Devils experienced yet another prosperous college basketball season.

In the NCAA Tournament, Duke emerged victorious in four games, defeating Alabama, Arizona, Baylor, and Mount St. Mary’s.

Nevertheless, the Blue Devils were unable to secure a national championship appearance as they were defeated by Houston in the Final Four, bringing an end to their season.

The subsequent cohort of players is anticipated to arrive on campus as Scheyer and his colleagues at Duke prepare the Blue Devils for their third consecutive Final Four appearance.

Blue-chip recruit Nikolas Khamenia is among the incoming players. He was recently included in the final rankings list of 247Sports’ basketball post.

Khamenia is the No. 15 overall athlete and the No. 3 small forward in the 2025 class, according to 247Sports..

Khamenia expressed his opinions subsequent to the 247Sports five-star rankings announcement.

Khamenia has recently completed his final season of competition at Harvard-Westlake.

He will be joining Jon Scheyer and the Duke Blue Devils, where he will be playing alongside two of the most talented recruits in the country: Cameron Boozer, a five-star power forward, and Cayden Boozer, a four-star point guard.

Khamenia was the subject of considerable interest from prestigious programs, including Gonzaga, UCLA, Arizona, and North Carolina, prior to agreeing to attend Duke.

Duke’s Blue Devils concluded their most recent season with a 35-4 record. A freshman trio of Cooper Flagg, Kon Knueppel, and Khaman Maluach led them to victory in the ACC Tournament.

Now, Khamenia and his class will seek to take up where they left off and lead Duke back to the Final Four