One of the significant decisions Duke is evaluating this offseason is that of guard Caleb Foster. Initially a four-star recruit in the 2023 class, Foster began the 2024-25 season as a starter but was eventually replaced by Sion James in the lineup.
On Thursday, Foster confirmed that he will be returning for the 2025-26 season. This announcement follows shortly after star freshman Kon Knueppel declared for the 2025 NBA Draft, becoming the first Blue Devils player to do so.
Duke has not yet made any transfers from the portal, but changes are anticipated soon. The focus now shifts to Cooper Flagg and Khaman Maluach, who are expected to declare for the 2025 NBA Draft ahead of the April 26 deadline. Flagg is favored to be the overall No. 1 pick this summer.
As Duke enters Year 4 under head coach Jon Scheyer, the program has numerous questions to address. With Flagg, Knueppel, and Maluach likely making the jump to the NBA, a significant shakeup in the starting lineup is on the horizon. James has already used up his eligibility, and veteran guard Tyrese Proctor must decide whether to return for another season or enter the professional ranks.
Another critical player, Isaiah Evans, a former five-star recruit who primarily played off the bench, needs to determine his future as well. He averaged 7.0 points throughout his freshman season.
Duke Players Returning for the 2025-26 Season
Caleb Foster | G | Soph.
GP: 38 | PPG: 4.9 | RPG: 1.7 | APG: 1.4
Foster, who was a starter at the season’s beginning, had his role reduced in favor of James. He averaged only 14 minutes per game last season after exceeding 25 minutes as a freshman and will be back at Duke for his junior year.
Duke Players Yet to Announce Future Plans
Tyrese Proctor | G | Jr.
GP: 38 | PPG: 12.4 | RPG: 3.0 | APG: 2.2
Proctor’s decision is particularly noteworthy as he has already navigated the draft cycle twice. Choosing to return for his senior season would provide Duke with a reliable presence in the backcourt, while opting for the NBA Draft could see him selected as a second-round pick.
Khaman Maluach | C | Fr.
GP: 39 | PPG: 8.6 | RPG: 6.6 | APG: 0.5
Maluach is likely to become a lottery pick by the end of the draft cycle, showcasing exceptional finishing abilities and a strong defensive presence.
