As the college basketball transfer portal heats up, Duke head coach Jon Scheyer’s cautious strategy is drawing growing criticism from fans and analysts who fear the Blue Devils are falling behind in an increasingly competitive landscape.
With top programs aggressively reloading their rosters through high-impact transfers, Scheyer’s measured approach—marked by minimal movement and a focus on internal development—has left some wondering whether Duke is missing crucial opportunities to stay elite.
So far this offseason, Duke has yet to land a marquee name from the portal, while rivals like North Carolina, Kentucky, and Arizona have made bold additions. “It’s a shame,” one ACC insider said. “This portal era demands urgency, and right now, Scheyer looks like he’s playing catch-up.”
Supporters of the second-year head coach argue that his faith in recruiting high school talent and building team chemistry is admirable. But with players increasingly seeking immediate playing time and NIL incentives, many question if that traditional approach is sustainable.
Scheyer addressed the issue briefly in a recent interview, stating: “We’re being selective, not passive. We’re looking for the right fits, not just names.” Still, his comments did little to calm frustrated fans who see other programs landing game-changers while Duke remains quiet.
The pressure is mounting for Scheyer to adapt to the new era of college basketball or risk watching the Blue Devils slip from perennial contender to mere competitor.
