Following their run to the Final Four in the NCAA Tournament, the Duke Blue Devils experienced a significant wave of player departures this spring. Fortunately for head coach Jon Scheyer, the turnover stems from positive developments.
Four of Duke’s starting five are entering the NBA Draft, highlighted by Cooper Flagg, the favorite to be selected No. 1 overall, and standout Kon Knueppel, a likely top-10 pick. Fellow starters Tyrese Proctor and Khaman Maluach are also garnering serious attention from NBA scouts.
In the midst of this roster shake-up, Duke gave an update on Cedric Coward, a player they had hoped would join the team next season. Although his time in Durham was always seen as a potential one-year stint, his future remains up in the air.
“Cedric Coward faces a pivotal choice: remain in the NBA Draft or head to Duke.”
At 21 years old, Cedric Coward has already completed four seasons of college basketball. He started at Willamette University before making the move to Eastern Washington, where he was named to the All-Big Sky First Team. During his final season with the Eagles, he posted an average of 15.4 points per game.
Coward later transferred to Washington State, but his time there was cut short by a season-ending shoulder injury after just six games in November. Despite the limited action, he made a strong impression, averaging 17.7 points and seven rebounds per contest.
During the NBA Draft Combine, Cedric Coward shared insights about his relationship with Duke head coach Jon Scheyer and the program’s ongoing involvement in his draft journey.
“I’ve been in constant communication with Coach Scheyer and the staff,” Coward said. “They’ve been fully supportive of me pursuing the draft—this has always been my dream. Right now, my full focus is on the draft.”
When asked what would influence his decision to stay in the draft, Coward noted that there isn’t one specific thing he’s waiting to hear.
“In the end, it’ll come down to discussions with my agent and making the most informed decision possible,” he said.
As for why Duke remains in the mix if he opts to return to college, Coward didn’t hesitate to express his admiration for the program.
“Hugely. There’s a reason I chose Duke in the first place. I have a lot of respect for Coach Scheyer and his staff, and I truly believe they could help elevate my game if I end up going there.”
Coward has until May 28 to withdraw from the NBA Draft and retain his NCAA eligibility.
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