Duke coach Jon Scheyer is thrilled with the impact junior transfer Maliq Brown has had on the Blue Devils this season, highlighting Brown’s contributions against his former team, Syracuse, on Wednesday night.
Jon Scheyer Praises Maliq Brown’s Impact: ‘He Changed Our Team’
Maliq Brown, a Duke basketball transfer, has wasted no time reminding fans of his importance despite missing four games due to a knee injury.
In his first game back, Saturday night’s 87-70 home win against archrival UNC, the 6’9″, 222-pound lethal defender needed only a few seconds to get his first of two momentum-boosting steals.
“Maliq has changed our team dramatically,” Jon Scheyer, who has praised Brown throughout the season, doubled down on his admiration for the ex-Syracuse standout.
Jon Scheyer on Maliq Brown: “Maliq has changed our team” pic.twitter.com/46jfAemnV5
— Samantha Croston (@SamCroston1) February 6, 2025
His defensive intelligence and sharp hands have unsettled opponents, causing turnovers and generating fast-break opportunities. The Blue Devils took advantage of his ability to guard numerous spots, making him one of the most versatile defenders in the ACC.
Beyond his defensive resilience, Brown has shown outstanding vision and passing skills. Junior guard Tyrese Proctor emphasized Brown’s playmaking instincts, which gave another dimension to Duke’s attack.
Whether it’s setting up teammates for easy shots or making the extra pass to keep the offense moving, Brown’s presence has improved Duke’s ball movement and provided more efficient scoring opportunities.
The third-year Duke coach proclaimed a team-first mindset all season. The Blue Devils have made quiet gains in recent years, putting them in a position to compete for an ACC championship and an intense NCAA Tournament run.
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With the ACC Tournament and March Madness on its way, Brown’s role will only expand. His ability to impact games without being in the spotlight makes him a vital asset as Duke looks for a deep postseason run.
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