Panic may be quietly brewing in Duke basketball circles as rumors swirl that five-star recruit and top-3 national prospect Jaylen Cross is reconsidering his commitment to the Blue Devils — a potential blow that could derail the team’s 2025-26 championship hopes.
Cross, a dynamic 6’7” forward out of California, committed to Duke last fall and was touted as the cornerstone of head coach Jon Scheyer’s next-generation squad. However, sources close to the situation now suggest that recent coaching staff changes and increased NIL offers from rival programs have reopened his recruitment.
“This would be a complete disaster for Duke if it happens,” said ESPN analyst Paul Biancardi. “Losing Cross would not only impact their competitiveness next season, but also shake their momentum in future recruiting classes.”
Cross has not publicly addressed the speculation, but cryptic social media posts over the weekend — including one that read, “Sometimes plans change…” — have fueled anxiety among fans.
Duke has faced growing competition in the NIL era, with powerhouses like Kansas, Kentucky, and even USC reportedly making late pushes to lure the high-flying forward.
With official signing day approaching, all eyes will be on whether Duke can secure the commitment — or suffer what could be one of its biggest recruiting setbacks in recent memory.
