In a welcome turn of events for Duke basketball fans, former five-star forward Sean Stewart has officially withdrawn from the NCAA transfer portal and reaffirmed his commitment to the Blue Devils. After entering the portal earlier this offseason amidst uncertainty about his role under head coach Jon Scheyer, Stewart has now decided to remain in Durham and continue his career at Duke.
Stewart’s return is a major development for the Blue Devils, who are reloading their roster following a strong 2023-24 campaign. A highly touted member of the 2023 recruiting class, Stewart came to Duke with immense promise thanks to his explosive athleticism, rebounding ability, and defensive versatility. While he played limited minutes as a freshman behind veterans and other elite recruits, his potential was evident in flashes throughout the season.
The 6-foot-9 forward averaged 2.6 points and 3.2 rebounds per game in just under 10 minutes of action per contest, but his energy and hustle made him a fan favorite. His best performances often came in key moments, where his rebounding, shot-blocking, and high motor provided valuable sparks off the bench.
Stewart’s decision to explore other opportunities in the portal came as no surprise, given the intense competition for minutes at Duke. However, after taking time to consider his options and meeting with Coach Scheyer and the Blue Devils’ coaching staff, Stewart has opted to stay and fight for a bigger role in his sophomore season.
According to sources close to the program, the coaching staff laid out a clear development plan for Stewart and reassured him of the important role he could play in the team’s frontcourt. With Kyle Filipowski off to the NBA and other bigs moving on, there’s a wide-open opportunity for Stewart to step up and make a major impact.
His return also signals continuity for a Duke team that is blending experience with an elite incoming recruiting class. Stewart’s familiarity with the system, his year of development in the ACC, and his physical tools make him a valuable piece of the puzzle moving forward. Duke’s frontcourt rotation will now include Stewart alongside promising players like incoming five-star Cooper Flagg, giving Scheyer a mix of experience, athleticism, and high upside.
From a leadership standpoint, Stewart’s choice to stay also sends a message about the culture being built at Duke. In an era where players often move on quickly, his decision to recommit to the Blue Devils shows a belief in the program’s long-term vision and a willingness to grow within it.
For Duke fans, this is more than just a roster move — it’s a vote of confidence in the program’s direction. With Stewart back in the fold, the Blue Devils retain a high-ceiling athlete who is ready to take the next step and become a key contributor. Expect to see a more confident, seasoned version of Sean Stewart when Duke hits the floor for the 2024-25 season, ready to leave his mark on Cameron Indoor Stadium.