The NBA Draft Combine is in full swing, and soon the dust will settle as players decide whether to remain in the draft or return to college for another season.
One of the standout events was the 3-point star drill, where Cedric Coward performed impressively, tying for the top spot with two SEC guards. All three hit 68% of their attempts.
Advertisement
Coward, who began his college career at Willamette in 2021, plans to join his fourth program when he arrives at Duke this fall. However, his strong performance at the combine may change that trajectory. If NBA scouts are impressed enough, Coward might never suit up for the Blue Devils.
While Coward’s combine start turned heads, it left many Duke fans uneasy. His rising draft stock brings back memories of past heartbreaks, like when Shaun Livingston committed to Duke before jumping straight to the NBA. Fans are reacting with a mix of frustration and resignation.
“We’re cooked.” exclaimed this Duke fan.
Advertisement
Another Duke fan repeated: “I’m depressed.”
“Another keels situation. How will he fill out the roster now? This why you can’t fumble one the best teams we’ve had in the past 5 years.” this fan brought up.
“:( I believe in miracles it’s not ever until the last day lol.” mentioned this very sad Duke fan.
“Rip, I believe in scheyer, I hope he has a strong plan.” mentioned here.
“Learned all the players names for nothing lol.” joked this fan.
Duke Blue Devils head coach Jon Scheyer.Matt Pendleton-Imagn Images
Duke head coach Jon Scheyer has his work cut out for him. After last season’s run to the Final Four, the Blue Devils are experiencing major turnover. Cooper Flagg, Kon Knueppel, Tyrese Proctor and Khaman Maluach are all expected to enter the NBA Draft.
Advertisement
Coward appeared in just six games for Washington State last season, averaging 17.7 points per game before suffering a shoulder injury in late November that ended his season. Before playing for the Cougars, he was at Eastern Washington for two seasons.
Returning players like Caleb Foster, Isaiah Evans, Maliq Brown and Patrick Ngongba II headline the roster. Scheyer will also look for rapid development from incoming recruits Cameron and Cayden Boozer, along with Nikolas Khamenia.
Related: Kentucky Guard Makes Life-Changing Announcement After Freshman Season
Related: 4-Star Recruit Makes College Commitment Decision on Monday
