Duke coach Jon Scheyer is rumored to be on the shortlist for the next head coach position at the Dallas Mavericks. The Mavs fired Jason Kidd on May 19, with team president Masai Ujiri taking responsibility for the decision.
The Mavs are still aiming to build around Cooper Flagg, and NBA insider Brett Siegel reported that they are expected to reach out to the No. 1 pick’s college coach, Scheyer. Flagg spent a season with Duke under Scheyer, leading them to the Final Four.
In the meantime, the Blue Devils received a major boost as former Wisconsin guard John Blackwell withdrew from the NBA draft and confirmed he will play for Duke next season.
“After prayer with my family and feedback from my representatives at Life Sports Agency, I am officially withdrawing from the 2026 NBA Draft to attend Duke University,” Blackwell wrote on Instagram.
Blackwell played an integral role in Wisconsin reaching the NCAA Tournament last season. He averaged 19.1 points, 5.1 rebounds and 2.3 assists per game, shooting 39% from 3-point range.
Blackwell took part in the NBA Combine, but his chances of being drafted were slim; he was ranked 81st on ESPN’s draft big board. He has one year of eligibility remaining, meaning the 2026 season with the Duke Blue Devils will be his last in college.
Fans react to John Blackwell committing to Jon Scheyer’s Duke Blue Devils
Fans were excited to see that John Blackwell had withdrawn from the NBA draft.
“Scary hours,” one fan said.
“He broke the Cedric curse. They were nervous,” another fan commented.
“We, yes WE are all doomed,” another fan said about facing Duke.
“This might be the best backcourt in college basketball history,” one fan claimed.
“I had no idea he had entered the draft pool. I thought he already committed to going to Duke,” another shared.
“Smart. Duke winning a natty,” another fan stated.
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