In a stunning development that’s sending ripples across the basketball landscape, four-star recruit Darius Coleman has officially flipped his commitment to Memphis Grizzlies Basketball, reversing course after originally pledging to the Duke Blue Devils. The decision marks a major victory for Memphis’ developmental pipeline and signals the franchise’s continued investment in high-level young talent through its affiliated development program.
Coleman, a 6-foot-7 combo forward out of Houston, Texas, is widely regarded as one of the most versatile and explosive players in the 2025 class. Known for his athleticism, defensive intensity, and ability to score from all levels, Coleman initially committed to Duke last fall. However, a strong relationship with the Grizzlies’ development staff, including head coach Taylor Jenkins and player development lead Vitaly Potapenko, swayed his decision.
“I have nothing but respect for Duke and their coaching staff,” Coleman said in his announcement video. “But after talking with my family and really looking at my future goals, I believe the Memphis Grizzlies are the best fit to help me reach the next level. Their player development track record and vision for me as a pro were impossible to ignore.”
Coleman’s flip is part of a growing trend of elite high school players choosing NBA franchises’ developmental tracks—whether through the G League, two-way contracts, or team-specific training initiatives—over traditional college basketball. Memphis, with a proven history of developing talent like Desmond Bane and Ja Morant, has now emerged as a major player in that evolving recruiting landscape.
Sources close to the recruitment say the Grizzlies emphasized a personalized development plan for Coleman, including early exposure to NBA-caliber facilities, strength training, film study, and on-court reps against pros. The team sees him as a long-term investment who could blossom into a two-way contributor at the NBA level.
“He’s got the tools to be special,” one Grizzlies scout said. “The size, the motor, the defensive ability—it’s all there. He just needs the right environment to grow, and we believe we can provide that.”
The commitment flip is a significant loss for Duke, who now must scramble to reinforce its forward depth in the 2025 class. Coleman was expected to be a major contributor early in his college career, but now becomes a centerpiece of Memphis’ developmental vision.
For the Grizzlies, this commitment strengthens their reputation as a destination for rising stars looking to bypass traditional college paths. And for Coleman, it’s a bold move toward achieving his ultimate dream of NBA stardom—backed by a franchise committed to making that dream a reality.