Final Four Clash: Duke’s Jon Scheyer and Houston’s Kelvin Sampson Showcase Their Unique Coaching Styles

SAN ANTONIO – Before Duke’s head coach Jon Scheyer stepped into his role following Mike Krzyzewski’s retirement, he organized a private scrimmage with the University of Houston. He wanted a challenge, so he reached out to coach Kelvin Sampson, eager to face the tough competition Houston is known for.

“I believed Houston would push us the hardest. Their coach is top-notch,” Scheyer said, recognizing Sampson’s reputation for strong defensive strategies.

This scrimmage took place on October 29, 2022, while Houston’s football team played across campus. Although Duke may have lost, Sampson saw potential in Scheyer’s approach. “Jon has been impressive,” he noted, pointing out how discussions shifted away from Coach K to focus on Scheyer’s fresh perspective.

Reflecting on that scrimmage, Scheyer recalled, “We faced tough adversity but responded well. It was a physical game.” Duke guard Tyrese Proctor echoed this, stating, “It was different and intense. They really know how to play tough.” Houston assistant coach Kellen Sampson observed that Proctor looked overwhelmed at times but still showed his talent. This experience has inspired Kellen as he prepares to eventually succeed his father as head coach.

Kellen noted, “Jon carried himself like a head coach. It was clear he would succeed.” Scheyer’s willingness to build Duke in his vision was evident as he changed everything from offensive plays to social media strategies. The scrimmage laid the groundwork for the much larger Sweet 16 matchup that followed, where Duke triumphed 54-51, pushing them into the Final Four.

As Duke and Houston face off again, the significance for both teams has evolved. For Houston, it signifies their incredible turnaround; for Duke, it highlights an ongoing legacy. “We’re not just a practice team anymore,” Kellen pointed out, a nod to how far they’ve come since that initial scrimmage.

It’s fascinating to note that when Kelvin Sampson joined Houston in 2014, the program was struggling. They hadn’t seen the NCAA tournament in over two decades. “It was a gamble for our family,” said Karen Sampson, Kelvin’s wife. The facilities were neglected, full of issues, including pest problems. The challenge of rejuvenating a faltering program became a family project, with Kelvin’s children, Lauren and Kellen, heavily involved in the transformation.

Over the years, they worked tirelessly to restore structure and elevate the Cougars’ reputation. Their efforts included upgrading the aging Hofheinz Pavilion into the modern Fertitta Center. In just under a decade, their hard work has led to Houston becoming a perennial powerhouse, boasting a No. 1 seed for the third consecutive year.

Kelvin recalled, “It was a significant reclamation effort. I wasn’t going to do it without my kids.” Today, they celebrate their third Final Four appearance collectively, with a chance to contend for a national title.

As we gear up for the rematch, both teams carry their respective histories and ambitions. Houston’s rise from the depths serves as a striking contrast to Duke’s storied legacy, making this encounter much more than just a game.

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