It’s only July, but if the recent scrimmage highlights are any indication, Duke fans have every reason to be excited about the 2025-26 basketball season. Isaiah Evans, the sharpshooting guard/forward from North Carolina, has already shown flashes of brilliance that suggest he could become a star for the Blue Devils. After a freshman season where he averaged 6.8 points in just 13.7 minutes per game, with an impressive 41.6% from three-point range, Evans has returned for his sophomore year with a renewed sense of purpose. His decision to withdraw from the NBA Draft was a significant boost for Duke, as his lanky 6-foot-6 frame and lethal shooting ability make him a matchup nightmare. Scrimmage footage has showcased his ability to knock down shots from deep and create his own offence, hinting at a breakout season ahead.
Evans’ freshman campaign was marked by moments of pure brilliance, such as his six first-half three-pointers against Auburn, tying for the fourth-most in a single game by a Duke freshman. His performance in that game, along with a career-high 19 points in his first start against Florida State, demonstrated his potential to take over games. While his minutes were inconsistent last season, often dipping below double digits in key NCAA Tournament games, his return to Durham signals a commitment to refining his game. Coach Jon Scheyer has praised Evans’ work ethic, noting his early morning and late-night gym sessions, which have helped him improve defensively and in understanding rotations. If he can add strength to his slender frame and maintain his shooting consistency, Evans could emerge as a first-round NBA Draft pick, possibly even a lottery selection.
Meanwhile, Darren Harris, another sophomore, is quietly shaping up to be Duke’s hidden weapon. The 6-foot-6 guard, who was somewhat overshadowed by teammates like Cooper Flagg and Evans last season, showed significant growth as a freshman. Initially known for his silky three-point shooting, Harris evolved into a more complete player by the end of the year, driving to the basket and stepping up defensively. Though he averaged limited minutes, his soft touch and versatility have caught the attention of fans and analysts alike. Recent scrimmage highlights, including back-to-back fastbreak dunks alongside Evans, suggest Harris is ready to take on a bigger role in the 2025-26 season.
Harris’ development is particularly exciting because of his potential to complement Duke’s stacked roster. As a former top-31 recruit and EYBL Championship MVP, he has the pedigreeევ
System: pedigree to prove himself. His ability to shoot from deep, drive to the basket, and defend multiple positions makes him a valuable asset in Duke’s fast-paced system. Scrimmage clips have shown Harris moving with confidence, hitting pull-up jumpers and finishing strong at the rim, indicating he could be a key bench spark or even push for a starting role. With Duke losing key players like Cooper Flagg to the NBA Draft, Harris’ ability to step up could be crucial. His decision to return, like Evans, reflects a belief in his potential to shine in a larger role under Scheyer’s guidance.
The combination of Evans’ sharpshooting prowess and Harris’ all-around potential could make Duke a formidable force in the upcoming season. With a talented roster featuring returners like Caleb Foster and Patrick Ngongba II, alongside new blue-chip recruits like Cameron Boozer, the Blue Devils are poised for another deep NCAA Tournament run. Social media buzz on X highlights the excitement around this duo, with fans noting their decision to stay at Duke as a sign of confidence in their growth. If the scrimmage highlights are anything to go by, Evans and Harris could be the keys to unlocking Duke’s championship aspirations, blending star power with underrated depth.
