Cedric Coward gained significant recognition from professional and college basketball observers through his outstanding Eastern Washington campaign. An even bigger story focuses on what happens if Coward chooses to continue his college career at Duke University.
During an episode of “The Field of 68: After Dark,” analysts explained how Cedric Coward would instantly fit Jon Scheyer’s starting lineup at Duke.
Why Cedric Coward Could Thrive in a Big Role at Duke
After entering the transfer portal and the NBA draft, the 6’6″ junior wing maintained his college athletic eligibility. Coward could become a key contributor for the Blue Devils next season if he returns to college basketball and enrolls at Duke.
Coward demonstrated impressive efficiency as he averaged 11.9 points and 6.5 rebounds per game during his last season with Eastern Washington University. He also posted a 56% field goal percentage. During a recent interview, Kyler Burd explained how his defensive skills would match the Duke defensive style perfectly.
“He’d give Duke a huge defensive lift on the wing,” Rob Dauster said on his YouTube channel. “His movement without the ball, his hustle, it’s exactly what Scheyer’s looking for with a more balanced, defensive-minded team next season.”
According to Burd, Duke’s 2024-25 roster includes many exceptional freshmen, yet Coward stands out because of his two-way ability and veteran basketball experience. His experience would allow him to play approximately 20+ minutes during each game from day one.
Coward has the potential to anchor Duke’s defense and support Khaman Maluach in leading that unit. With Tyrese Proctor returning and Cooper Flagg joining the team, Coward’s “glue guy” presence could be crucial to building a championship-contending balance.
Last season, Coward posted a 120.1 offensive rating and ranked in the top 10 in Big Sky defensive win shares with 1.8, advanced scoring statistics that present strong growth potential for the ACC.
Draft Decision Looms: Return to School or Go Pro?
The absence of Coward’s name in NBA draft projections makes a return to college basketball an appealing option for his development as a professional. According to Burd, the junior could increase his draft stock value from his time at Duke University because the ACC competition would provide him with national recognition.
Burd said, “The NBA is all about projection, and Coward already shows pro-ready tools.” “But his visibility at Eastern Washington was limited. At Duke, he could show scouts how he impacts winning at the highest level.”
Under the current circumstances, Scheyer and the Duke Blue Devils would gain advantages if Coward withdraws from the NBA Draft. A veteran presence among a roster of mostly underclassmen would prove essential when facing high-pressure ACC matchups.
KEEP READING: 2025 Men’s College Basketball Transfer Portal Tracker
All players who wish to remain NCAA-eligible for future seasons must submit their withdrawal from the NBA Draft by May 29. The decision on whether Coward will stay in the draft will draw attention from Duke and fans of college basketball until that date passes.
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