It’s April, and Jon Scheyer seems to be building another strong team for Duke. Recently, former Wisconsin guard John Blackwell announced on social media that he would be joining the Blue Devils next season. Blackwell was a standout player in the transfer portal, ranked sixth on On3’s list of transfers.
During his time at Wisconsin, he proved himself as a notable guard in the Big Ten. Last season, he averaged 19.1 points and 5.1 rebounds per game and earned All-Big Ten honors. He played a big role in leading Wisconsin to its third consecutive NCAA tournament. Blackwell also shot nearly 39% from three-point range, attempting over seven threes each game.
With Blackwell on board, he is expected to join Duke’s starting lineup right away. He’ll bring valuable experience alongside talented players like Cayden Boozer and Patrick Ngongba, both of whom have decided to return next season. Dame Sarr and Caleb Foster are also likely staying.
Duke is not just relying on transfers. They have the top recruiting class in the nation, featuring three five-star recruits: Cam Williams, Deron Rippey Jr., and Bryson Howard.
Last season, the Blue Devils wrapped up with a strong 35-3 record and were the No. 1 seed in the NCAA tournament. However, they fell short in the Elite Eight against UConn. Looking ahead, with a blend of fresh talent and experienced players, Duke could very well dominate the ACC again and aim for a deep run in the NCAA tournament.
In recent years, college basketball has seen a significant increase in team transfers due to the NCAA’s more lenient transfer rules. This trend allows players like Blackwell to seek better opportunities and join teams with stronger prospects. According to a report from NPR, around 1,200 players entered the transfer portal last offseason, showing a growing trend of seeking new challenges and environments.
As Scheyer continues to build his roster, Duke fans can stay hopeful for another thrilling season. The excitement around the program is palpable, as fans eagerly await the impact of the new recruits and the returning players.
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