DURHAM, N.C. –– After a loss to then-No.19-ranked Kentucky on the road, the now No.12-ranked Blue Devils followed it up with an an impressive 86-35 blowout Wofford on Saturday, highlighting just how deep head coach Jon Scheyer can go into his bench.
Against the Wildcats Scheyer utilized just eight guys – two of whom were limited because of injuries they sustained in game (Khaman Maluach and Sion James, who dealt with knee and shoulder issues respectively). But having these two back healthy, as well as, freshman center Patrick Ngongba II back were critical in their win and will be important as the season treks on.
In his first action in a Blue Devil uniform Ngongba grabbed six rebounds, including five on the offensive glass.
A former five-star prospect, Ngongba missed his entire senior season due to foot injuries. Standing at 6 ’11”, rebounding was a point of emphasis for Ngongba in practice and he was all smiles on the court.
“I was just really happy to finally be out there. It was my first college game and first game in a long time really,” he said. “I’m still trying to get back in shape but I feel good.”
Scheyer candidly addressed the team’s developmental narrative, emphasizing the youth of his team and the presence of five transfers.
“It’s my first time with all these guys,” Scheyer said. “I only have Caleb and Tyrese from last year and we have 11 good players, but it’s hard to play 11 guys. We’ve got to find out what the balance is, how deep we can go, who can be ready.”
Early on in the season, Scheyer’s usage of the young guys has been crucial.
Freshman guard Kon Knueppel is an unstoppable, aggressive driver – averaging 14.8 points – and Huntersville native Isaiah Evans contributed significant minutes on Saturday, shooting 4-of-7 from beyond the arc.
Supported by reliable veterans, the Blue Devils boast a deep list of reserves who could help them in key situations during the season. And of course star freshman Cooper Flagg and his varied play making is a huge help.
“The value of him as a player goes way beyond scoring,” Scheyer said. “When you impact every part of the game it makes it easier as a coach. He just makes plays. He has the unique instincts of whatever is required to win.”
Flagg leads the team in scoring and rebounding with 16.3 and 9.5 respectively.
Maluach and Knueppel have started every game this season, however any number of reserves are also primed to take the weight off and find their way into the starting lineup.
Beginning on Friday, Duke has a two-game road slate out west where they’ll play Arizona and No. 1 Kansas. In order to beat these teams, they must continue their stellar defensive efficiency—they’re allowing just 0.9 points per possession according to Ken Pom. However these two teams are sure to challenge those numbers, making this weekend a critical first major test for this new-look squad to prove themselves and establish their identity early in the season.
“It comes down to defense and rebounding, fit, and how to support Cooper and help Kon,” Scheyer said. “Just because we play a certain way now, it doesn’t mean it’s gonna end up that way at the end of the season. This is a long process of how we’re going to have to grow throughout the season.”
They have the size, athleticism and depth to win against any team, now they must actually do it.
“Being tested on the road early is going to be so good for these guys, we’re gonna learn so much,” Scheyer said.