Isaiah Evans Announces He’s Returning to Duke for Sophomore Season
In a move that has sent waves of excitement through the Duke basketball program and its passionate fanbase, standout freshman Isaiah Evans has announced his decision to return to Durham for his sophomore season. The highly touted shooting guard, who flashed moments of brilliance during his debut campaign, will look to build on his promising start under the guidance of head coach Jon Scheyer. Evans’ return solidifies Duke’s backcourt for the 2024-25 season and bolsters the Blue Devils’ chances of contending for both an ACC title and a national championship.
Evans, a 6’6” guard from North Carolina, arrived at Duke as one of the most electrifying prospects in the 2023 recruiting class. Known for his smooth shooting stroke, explosive athleticism, and ability to create his own shot, he quickly became a fan favorite. Though his freshman season had its share of ups and downs—typical for any first-year player adjusting to the college game—Evans showed flashes of the high-level scoring ability that made him a coveted recruit. His decision to return suggests a commitment to further developing his game before potentially making the jump to the NBA, a path that has become increasingly common for Duke’s top talents under Coach Scheyer.
For Duke, Evans’ return is a major win. The Blue Devils have seen numerous one-and-done stars come through the program over the years, and while Evans certainly has the talent to follow that path, his choice to stay another year speaks to his maturity and long-term vision. Another season in college will allow him to refine his consistency, improve his defensive presence, and take on a larger leadership role. With several key players from last year’s squad either graduating or declaring for the NBA Draft, Evans will likely step into a more prominent offensive role, giving him the opportunity to showcase his growth as a complete player.
From a team perspective, Evans’ return provides much-needed continuity. Duke is expected to bring in another elite recruiting class, and having an experienced sophomore like Evans in the backcourt will help ease the transition for incoming freshmen. His ability to stretch the floor with his three-point shooting, attack the rim, and make plays in transition will be invaluable. Additionally, his familiarity with Scheyer’s system and the demands of ACC basketball will make him a stabilizing force for the Blue Devils as they navigate what promises to be another competitive season.
The decision also reflects well on Duke’s program culture. In an era where the transfer portal and early NBA departures often lead to roster turnover, retaining a player of Evans’ caliber for a second year is a testament to the environment Scheyer and his staff have built. Evans’ return suggests he sees value in further honing his skills at the college level, trusting that another year at Duke will better prepare him for the professional ranks. This is a sentiment that resonates with fans who appreciate players investing in their development while wearing the Blue Devil jersey.
For Evans personally, another season at Duke offers the chance to elevate his draft stock. While he already possesses the physical tools and scoring instincts that NBA scouts covet, proving he can sustain high-level performance over a full season will only strengthen his case as a first-round pick. By returning, he can work on tightening his handle, improving his decision-making, and demonstrating that he can be a go-to option in clutch moments—all of which will be critical at the next level.
The announcement has been met with widespread enthusiasm from Duke supporters, who took to social media to celebrate the news. Evans’ potential breakout sophomore campaign could mirror that of previous Blue Devil stars who made significant leaps in their second year, such as Tre Jones or Grayson Allen. If he can build on the flashes of dominance he showed as a freshman, Evans could emerge as one of the premier guards in college basketball next season.
Looking ahead, Duke’s 2024-25 roster is shaping up to be a formidable mix of returning talent and incoming freshmen. Evans will be a central figure in that equation, and his development will be crucial to the team’s success. With his combination of size, skill, and scoring ability, he has all the tools to become an All-ACC performer and lead the Blue Devils deep into March.
In the end, Isaiah Evans’ decision to return to Duke is a win for everyone involved. The program retains a dynamic playmaker, fans get another year to watch a rising star, and Evans positions himself for an even brighter future. As the college basketball world turns its attention to next season, all eyes will be on Durham to see how Evans and the Blue Devils rise to the challenge. One thing is certain: Duke basketball just got even more exciting.
