.. a mix of returning talent and promising newcomers, positioning the Blue Devils for a strong campaign ahead.
Patrick Ngongba II: A Promising Center with High Expectations
Patrick Ngongba II, a 6-foot-11 center from Fairfax, Virginia, committed to Duke as part of the 2024 recruiting class. He was the fifth commitment for that class and the first big man to join the group. Ngongba’s decision to choose Duke over programs like Kansas State and Kentucky was influenced by the program’s rich history and the opportunity to develop under head coach Jon Scheyer’s guidance.
During his high school career at Paul VI Catholic High School, Ngongba showcased his skills on the Nike EYBL circuit, averaging 12.7 points on 70% shooting. His performance earned him Second Team regular season honors and helped lead Team Takeover to a championship at the Peach Jam. These achievements highlighted his potential as a dominant force in the paint and a valuable asset to the Blue Devils.
In his freshman season at Duke, Ngongba displayed versatility and a strong presence in the post. His ability to contribute both offensively and defensively provided the team with much-needed depth in the frontcourt. As he prepares for his sophomore season, expectations are high for Ngongba to take on a more prominent role, potentially becoming a cornerstone of Duke’s interior game.
Maliq Brown: Defensive Specialist and Versatile Forward
Maliq Brown, a 6-foot-9 forward from Culpeper, Virginia, transferred to Duke from Syracuse, where he had established himself as one of the ACC’s premier defenders. In his sophomore season, Brown averaged 9.5 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 2.2 steals per game, earning a spot on the ACC All-Defensive Team. His efficiency was notable, boasting the nation’s third-highest effective field goal percentage at 71.3%, according to KenPom.com.
Upon joining Duke, Brown’s defensive prowess immediately stood out. His ability to guard multiple positions and contribute significantly on the boards added a new dimension to the Blue Devils’ defense. Despite facing injury setbacks during the season, including a dislocated shoulder and a knee sprain, Brown’s resilience and determination to return to the court underscored his commitment to the team.
Looking ahead, Brown’s experience and defensive acumen will be invaluable assets for Duke. As he continues to recover and regain full health, his presence on the floor is expected to enhance the team’s defensive schemes and provide leadership in critical moments.
Duke’s 2025–26 Roster Outlook
The returns of Ngongba and Brown significantly strengthen Duke’s roster for the upcoming season. They join a talented group that includes returning players like Caleb Foster and Darren Harris, along with incoming freshmen such as Isaiah Evans, Cameron Boozer, Cayden Boozer, and Nikolas Khamenia. This blend of experienced upperclassmen and highly touted newcomers positions Duke as a formidable contender in the ACC and on the national stage. citeturn0news12
Head coach Jon Scheyer’s ability to integrate these players into a cohesive unit will be crucial. With a mix of scoring threats, defensive specialists, and versatile players, Duke has the potential to build a balanced and dynamic team. The leadership of players like Brown and the development of talents like Ngongba will play pivotal roles in the team’s success.
The decisions of Patrick Ngongba II and Maliq Brown to rejoin Duke men’s basketball for the 2025–26 season are promising developments for the program. Their contributions, both on and off the court, will be instrumental in shaping the team’s trajectory in the upcoming season. With a strong roster and experienced leadership, Duke is poised to make a significant impact in college basketball.
