With seven players departing via the transfer portal, Duke has been actively seeking reinforcements and has made significant strides with the addition of Mason Gillis from Purdue and Maliq Brown from Syracuse.
Gillis, a 6-foot-6 forward, played a crucial role in Purdue’s run to the Final Four, showcasing his sharpshooting abilities and averaging 46.8% from beyond the arc. He is expected to compete for a starting role alongside the returning backcourt duo of Dereck Lively and Dariq Whitehead.
The Blue Devils’ 2024 recruiting class is equally impressive, featuring five-star prospects Cooper Flagg, Khaman Maluach, and Sean East. Flagg, ranked as the top overall high school player, is a versatile forward with strong defensive and offensive skills. Maluach, a 7-foot-1 center, will provide a formidable presence in the paint. East, a five-star wing, offers athleticism and shooting prowess.
Despite the departure of key players like Kyle Filipowski and Dariq Whitehead, Duke remains optimistic about their prospects in the upcoming season. The combination of experienced returnees and talented newcomers has set the stage for another competitive year in Durham.
