3 underdogs who committed to Jon Scheyer's Duke in 2024 ft. Khaman Maluach
Coach Jon Scheyer lost a significant chunk of his roster when seven Duke Blue Devils entered the portal this offseason. However, heading into his third year of coaching, Scheyer brought in a total of 10 new faces, including the top player in the 2024 class, Cooper Flagg.
That move alone makes Duke one of the top teams in the college circuit, given Flagg’s skillset and showcase against Team USA less than two months ago.
Here's a closer look at three new Blue Devils that could rise the ranks and leave their mark in their 2024-25 season.
3 underdogs at Jon Scheyer's Duke in 2024
#3. Khaman Maluach
The 7-foot-2 big man was part of the South Sudan team that gave Team USA a run for its money back in mid-July. Khaman Maluach is an NBA Academy Africa product who has the potential to become a reliable stretch five behind his improving ability to knock down long shots.
He chose Jon Scheyer’s program over top schools like Kansas, Kentucky and UCLA, making him a great fit alongside Cooper Flagg. Maluach’s versatility on both ends of the floor should allow him to impact winning from day one and act as an immediate replacement for Kyle Filipowski.
#2. Sion James
Tulane Green Wave’s Sion James was one of Duke’s earliest commits after he withdrew from the 2024 NBA draft. The 6-foot-4 guard’s decision to join Jon Scheyer comes through the popularity of the program and the flashlights it is constantly under, giving him a chance to increase his draft stock.
Sion James averaged 14.0 points, 5.4 rebounds, 2.7 assists and 1.6 steals in his previous season and will likely see more responsibilities in his last year of eligibility.
#1. Kon Knueppel
The Wisconsin product rejected offers from the home team, Louisville, Ohio State, Alabama, Marquette and Virginia to land with the Blue Devils. His addition helps Jon Scheyer build an extensive shooting roster, as Knueppel tends to sink multiple shots in a row.
He is perhaps not as athletic as most wings but makes up for it with his shooting precision, high basketball IQ and willingness to fit into a system. Kon Knueppel could be a great asset as Duke improves from last season’s 33.5% efficiency from long-range in 2024.