The Duke Blue Devils men’s basketball program is undergoing a new wave of changes as assistant coach Emanuel Dildy has officially been promoted to an elevated role within head coach Jon Scheyer’s staff. The move comes as part of a strategic shift to strengthen Duke’s recruiting efforts and bolster player development ahead of the upcoming season.
Dildy, who joined the Blue Devils staff in 2023, has quickly made his mark as both a recruiter and mentor to the players. Known for his energy, communication skills, and ability to connect with athletes on and off the court, his promotion is viewed as a natural progression for a coach who has steadily climbed the college basketball ranks.
Prior to joining Duke, Dildy held key positions at Northwestern, Valparaiso, Loyola Chicago, and Missouri, where he built a reputation as a tireless worker with strong recruiting ties, particularly in the Midwest. His experience with multiple programs has helped him understand the nuances of building a roster and supporting young athletes through the grind of high-level basketball.
At Duke, Dildy’s responsibilities have extended beyond typical assistant coaching duties. He has been instrumental in helping the staff secure commitments from several blue-chip recruits, strengthening the Blue Devils’ reputation as one of the nation’s top recruiting powers. His ability to foster relationships with high school prospects, AAU coaches, and families has made him a valuable asset for a program that consistently competes for the nation’s top talent.
With his new role, Dildy is expected to take on more leadership responsibilities, particularly in the areas of recruiting coordination and player development strategy. Sources close to the program suggest that Scheyer has been impressed with Dildy’s vision for how Duke can evolve its recruiting approach in the NIL era, where branding and player empowerment play a larger role than ever before.
Dildy’s promotion also represents continuity within the Blue Devils’ staff at a time when college basketball is experiencing unprecedented levels of change. The transfer portal, NIL opportunities, and shifting conference dynamics have forced programs to adapt quickly. Duke, despite its iconic history, is no exception. By elevating Dildy, Scheyer is sending a message that he values loyalty, hard work, and fresh ideas in building the next era of Blue Devils basketball.
Current and former players have praised Dildy for his hands-on approach to coaching. He is often seen staying late after practices to work on individual drills with players, breaking down film sessions in detail, and checking in with athletes to ensure they’re balancing basketball with academics and personal growth. For many, his promotion is not just about recognition but also a reflection of the trust and respect he has earned within the program.
Looking ahead, Dildy will play a central role as Duke prepares for another run at the ACC title and a deep NCAA Tournament push. The Blue Devils’ roster, loaded with a mix of experienced returners and talented freshmen, will benefit from his steady presence and recruiting insights.
For Scheyer, who continues to build his own legacy following the retirement of legendary coach Mike Krzyzewski, having strong assistants like Dildy is crucial. The promotion is not only a personal win for Emanuel Dildy but also a step forward for Duke basketball’s pursuit of sustained excellence in a new era of college hoops.