In a stunning revelation, an NBA star has shared that he foresaw Jon Scheyer’s future as the head coach of Duke Basketball long before the university made the decision to promote him. Scheyer, a former star player for the Blue Devils and a key assistant coach under Mike Krzyzewski, was appointed as the program’s head coach in 2021, succeeding the legendary Krzyzewski after his retirement. While the move seemed like a natural progression for many in the Duke basketball world, one NBA star was particularly ahead of the curve, predicting Scheyer’s ascent to the top job years before it became a reality.
The NBA player, whose identity remains unnamed, spent significant time with Scheyer both on and off the court during their shared experiences in professional basketball. Over the years, he observed the work ethic, basketball IQ, and leadership qualities that Scheyer demonstrated — all of which pointed to a future in coaching. According to the NBA star, Scheyer’s approach to the game, both as a player and an assistant coach, was always reflective of someone who not only understood the intricacies of basketball but also had the ability to inspire and guide others.
Jon Scheyer’s career trajectory at Duke was marked by his success as a player, where he played a crucial role in the team’s 2010 national championship run. After his playing career, he transitioned seamlessly into coaching, joining Coach K’s staff in 2014. As an assistant, Scheyer helped mentor future NBA stars like Zion Williamson, RJ Barrett, and Cam Reddish, while also contributing to Duke’s success on the court. His time as an assistant coach allowed him to learn the ropes of leading a college program, all while being groomed by one of the best coaches in basketball history.
The NBA star, who was also familiar with Duke’s rich basketball legacy, noted that Scheyer’s ability to relate to players, his calm demeanor under pressure, and his deep understanding of the game made him an ideal candidate for the head coaching position. Moreover, Scheyer’s commitment to maintaining the program’s high standards and his connection to the university’s values were qualities that resonated deeply with those who knew him.
In hindsight, the appointment of Scheyer as head coach was widely seen as a logical and smooth transition. But for this NBA player, who had seen Scheyer’s potential long before the announcement, it was simply a matter of time. Duke had found someone who not only embodied the Blue Devils’ spirit but was also prepared to lead them into the future with confidence and vision.
Looking back, it’s clear that Jon Scheyer’s success was written in the stars for some. The NBA star’s prediction serves as a testament to Scheyer’s innate coaching ability and his potential to continue Duke’s basketball legacy for years to come.