DURHAM, N.C. — In a monumental recruiting victory for head coach Jon Scheyer and the Duke basketball program, the No. 1 overall player in the Class of 2025 has announced his commitment to the Blue Devils, choosing the historic powerhouse over fellow finalists Kentucky, Georgia, and Tennessee.
The elite prospect, widely regarded as a generational talent, made his announcement Friday afternoon in front of a national television audience and a crowd of friends, family, and media at his high school gymnasium. Sporting a crisp navy suit and a signature Duke cap, the five-star phenom revealed his decision with a confident smile, ending one of the most closely watched recruiting battles in recent memory.
A Program-Changing Talent
Standing 6-foot-9 with a versatile skill set that blends size, athleticism, and high basketball IQ, the top-ranked recruit has been compared to recent NBA stars for his polished game and on-court poise. Whether it’s his fluid ball-handling, smooth shooting stroke, or ability to defend multiple positions, scouts across the country have labeled him a future lottery pick and a likely one-and-done talent.
Throughout his high school career, the future Blue Devil has dazzled on the EYBL circuit and in national showcases, averaging 22.7 points, 9.4 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game during his junior season. He was a standout at the Nike Hoop Summit and the USA Basketball U18 camp, consistently drawing rave reviews for his leadership and two-way impact.
His commitment gives Duke yet another crown jewel to build around, reinforcing the program’s status as the premier destination for top-tier talent.
The Decision
The recruitment was fiercely contested. Kentucky, Georgia, and Tennessee all made strong pushes, offering proximity to home, name, image, and likeness (NIL) opportunities, and the chance to lead their respective programs. Kentucky, in particular, was considered a frontrunner early in the process, with head coach Mark Pope personally attending several of the recruit’s games after taking over for John Calipari. Georgia and Tennessee leaned on regional familiarity and family ties to keep the race tight.
In the end, it was Duke’s legacy, player development reputation, and Scheyer’s personal approach that sealed the deal.
“Duke felt like home from the beginning,” the recruit said during his announcement. “Coach Scheyer and the staff have believed in me every step of the way. I want to be part of something special, compete for a national championship, and grow as a person and a player. Duke gives me the best chance to do that.”
A Massive Win for Jon Scheyer
With this commitment, Scheyer has once again proven he’s more than capable of maintaining the recruiting momentum built under Hall of Fame coach Mike Krzyzewski. Since taking over the program in 2022, Scheyer has landed multiple top-10 classes, but this commitment marks his biggest splash to date.
“This is a program-defining moment,” a Duke assistant said following the announcement. “It’s not just about the rankings — it’s about getting the right person, the right competitor, and the right fit. He checks every box.”
Scheyer’s 2025 class now features two top-10 players and ranks No. 1 nationally, according to 247Sports and ESPN. The addition of the No. 1 overall player strengthens Duke’s national title hopes and raises expectations for a deep NCAA Tournament run in 2026.
What He Brings to Duke
At Duke, the incoming star is expected to slot in immediately as a starter and a focal point on both ends of the court. His ability to handle the ball in transition, create offense in the halfcourt, and switch defensively across the frontcourt makes him an ideal fit for Scheyer’s positionless style of play.
He’ll likely play a hybrid forward role — capable of operating as a stretch four or even a big wing — depending on matchups. His three-point shooting has continued to improve, and he’s shown advanced decision-making when double-teamed, which should make him a nightmare to defend in the ACC.
“I’m coming to Duke to win,” he said. “Everything else will take care of itself.”
A Ripple Effect Across College Basketball
The implications of this commitment stretch far beyond Durham. Kentucky, already navigating a period of transition under new leadership, loses out on a marquee name that could have jump-started its rebuild. Georgia and Tennessee, both hoping to land a hometown hero and shift the recruiting landscape in their favor, will now have to pivot to other targets.
Meanwhile, Duke solidifies its standing as the premier destination for elite talent — continuing a recruiting streak that includes names like Cooper Flagg, Jared McCain, Caleb Foster, and Kyle Filipowski in recent years.
Fan and Community Reaction
The commitment sent shockwaves across social media, with Duke fans erupting in celebration. “Duke is back,” one fan tweeted. “Let’s hang another banner.” Former players, including NBA stars who once wore the Blue and White, also chimed in with messages of support and excitement.
“This kid is special,” said a former Blue Devil and current NBA player. “He’s built for the moment. Duke is the perfect place for him to shine.”
Looking Ahead
The countdown is already on. While he still has one more year of high school basketball to play, Duke fans are eagerly anticipating his arrival in Durham. His commitment has also sparked speculation about future recruits joining the class, as top-tier talent often attracts others to follow.
For now, Duke has secured the crown jewel of the 2025 class — a player capable of delivering another Final Four, a potential national championship, and perhaps, another top NBA Draft pick.
The Brotherhood just got stronger.
