Duke's New Coach: A Fresh Start, A Familiar Success

It's 2021, and Jon Scheyer is at a crossroads. He's eyeing two coaching jobs, DePaul and UNLV, both seem within reach. He's been an assistant at Duke for seven years, winning titles as both a player and a coach. He's ready for his own team. But life has other plans. Scheyer doesn't get either job. DePaul hires Tony Stubblefield, and UNLV goes with Kevin Kruger. It's a tough blow, but it's not the end. Just two months later, Scheyer gets a call from Duke. Coach K is stepping down, and he wants Scheyer to take over. It's a surprise to many, but Scheyer is ready. Fast forward to 2024, and Scheyer has Duke in the Final Four. His team is dominating, winning by an average of 23. 5 points in the tournament. They're not just winning; they're making a statement. This isn't just another Duke team; this is a team built in Scheyer's image. Scheyer's approach is different from Coach K's. He's more down-to-earth, more honest. He's not afraid to tell his players the truth, even if it's hard to hear. This honesty has built a strong bond between him and his players. They trust him, and they're willing to put in the work. Scheyer's team is a mix of fresh talent and experienced transfers. He's not afraid to take risks, to go after players who fit his vision. And it's paying off. His team is a machine, each part working together to create something special. But Scheyer knows this isn't just about him. He's got a great team, a great staff. People like Rachel Baker, Emanuel Dildy, and Chris Carrawell are all playing their part. And then there's Coach K, still in the background, still offering advice. Scheyer's journey hasn't been easy. He's had to pivot, to adapt. But he's done it in his own way, staying true to who he is. And it's working. Duke is back on top, and Scheyer is the man leading the charge.