In an era where college basketball rosters are constantly in flux due to the transfer portal, Duke stands out as a beacon of stability. Head coach Jon Scheyer recently pulled back the curtain on how the Blue Devils managed to keep all their key players from leaving—a rarity in today’s game.
Speaking on “The Brotherhood Podcast,” Scheyer shared the values and strategies that have allowed Duke to avoid the transfer portal drama that plagues so many other programs.
Jon Scheyer on Building Trust and Character at Duke
Scheyer’s approach starts with honesty and open communication, not just during recruitment, but throughout a player’s journey at Duke.
“We’ve had transparent conversations from day one, starting when we were recruiting them, to throughout the time coaching them this year, and then the same thing after the fact in the spring,” Scheyer explained.
This transparency builds trust and sets realistic expectations. There are no promises of starting roles or guaranteed minutes, only the belief in each player’s potential and the opportunity to earn their place.
The head coach also highlighted the unique character of his returning players, saying:
“I hope everybody that’s listening to this or watching appreciates the amazing character of the guys that are coming back… for all five of them, in their ways, to double down on what’s been started.”
Scheyer’s pride is evident as he credits the players’ maturity and commitment to the program’s vision, choosing to stay and build something special rather than chase individual opportunities elsewhere.
According to Scheyer, what truly sets Duke apart is the collective decision to say “no” to the transfer portal. “The theme for us as a team is we’ve all said no to have something special,” he said.
The players and staff consciously chose to invest in existing relationships and culture rather than seek quick fixes through transfers. This approach has fostered a more profound sense of unity and purpose within the team.
A Different Blueprint for Roster Stability
Scheyer quickly points out that Duke’s method is a deliberate departure from the norm. In a landscape where transfer portal activity is the rule, not the exception, Duke’s all-in mentality is refreshing.
“We’re the only program in the country that has not had a player enter the transfer portal or come in from the transfer portal,” he noted, underscoring the rarity of Duke’s situation.
But this kind of stability isn’t just about holding on to players—it’s a matter of cultivating a culture in which everyone feels valued and connected.
Scheyer thinks the Blue Devils are better off staying off the portal and forming “deeper relationships, as connected as a group possible for this upcoming year.” The outcome is a talented, cohesive, and dedicated team that embraces a common vision.
KEEP READING: 2025 Men’s College Basketball Transfer Portal Tracker
Duke’s approach also extends to the coaching staff, with Scheyer emphasizing the importance of consistency and collaboration. “I love the way that our staff is coming together. It’s a very stable program, but in an unstable environment,” he said, highlighting how continuity at all levels sets Duke apart.
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