Deadspin Field Level Media ranks Duke No. 2 in its Top 25 for 2026-27
Aiming for another deep run
Duke has made three consecutive Elite Eight appearances under coach Jon Scheyer, reaching the Final Four in 2025. The Blue Devils now have a roster that could help Scheyer win his first national championship.
The team begins the season ranked second in the Field Level Media poll. Its recent postseason record sets a high bar for the season ahead.
New talent and returning experience
Duke added five-star prospects Cameron Williams, Deron Rippey Jr. and Joaquim Boumtje Boumtje. Boumtje Boumtje was named ACC Preseason Rookie of the Year. Caleb Foster and Patrick Ngongba II return, while guard John Blackwell joins from Wisconsin. Blackwell, ranked No. 3 in this year’s transfer portal class by 247Sports, averaged 19.1 points and 5.1 rebounds last season, shooting 38.9% from three-point range.
Early tests await Duke
The stretch starts against Michigan State in the Champions Classic on Nov. 10. The article identifies that game as the opening challenge in the run of highly ranked opponents.
Key points
- Duke is No. 2 in the Field Level Media Top 25 entering 2026-27.
- Jon Scheyer is seeking his first national title after three straight Elite Eight appearances.
- Three five-star recruits join returning players Caleb Foster and Patrick Ngongba II.
- Duke opens its run of games against top-seven teams versus Michigan State on Nov. 10.