In a major development on the college basketball transfer front, Duke has officially landed a commitment from one of the most coveted big men in the portal — a towering 7-foot center whose decision is set to shift the national landscape ahead of the 2025 season. The Blue Devils, already boasting a top-tier recruiting class, just added a crucial piece to their frontcourt in what could be the final move that solidifies them as a true championship contender.
The transfer, who made his name as a dominant rim protector and interior presence at his previous school, chose Duke over offers from Kansas, UConn, and several SEC powerhouses. His combination of size, mobility, and defensive instincts made him one of the most pursued players in the portal this offseason.
A Game-Changing Addition
At 7 feet tall with a wingspan pushing 7’4″, the new Blue Devil brings more than just length to the table. He averaged 12.8 points, 9.4 rebounds, and 2.6 blocks per game last season, showing off a versatile skill set that included rim-running, pick-and-roll finishing, and surprisingly soft touch around the basket. He also flashed the ability to step out and hit the occasional mid-range jumper, a trait that has only expanded his value in today’s spacing-oriented game.
For Duke, the addition solves a critical need. The Blue Devils struggled with consistency in the paint last year, often relying on undersized forwards or inexperienced freshmen to hold their own against older, stronger frontcourts. This transfer instantly changes that equation, giving head coach Jon Scheyer a seasoned anchor in the post who can also help mentor the younger bigs on the roster.
Why Duke?
The decision to pick Duke came after a whirlwind recruitment that included multiple in-home visits and official campus stops. According to sources close to the player, the deciding factors were Duke’s player development track record, the opportunity for a national spotlight, and a system that aligns with his style of play.
“I chose Duke because it felt like home,” the center said in a statement released shortly after his announcement. “Coach Scheyer and the staff have a clear plan for how I’ll be used, and I believe I can help bring another championship to Cameron Indoor.”
His official visit reportedly left a strong impression, with the coaching staff highlighting Duke’s history of developing NBA-caliber big men and the current roster makeup