After three seasons, a loyal Duke basketball player is about to transfer.
Jaylen Blakes announced his departure from the Blue Devils on social media Saturday afternoon.
The New Jersey native was a late addition to the 2021 recruiting class, which includes Paolo Banchero, AJ Griffin, and Trevor Keels, and is one of just two players on the current roster that are coached by Mike Krzyzewski.
He was also the final player to commit to the program while Krzyzewski was the head coach.
The 6-foot-2 guard will be a graduate transfer after completing his degree at Duke in just three seasons.
“As I prepare to graduate this semester, it has been a dream come true to be a part of the Duke University family and brotherhood for the past three years,” he said in a Facebook post.
“I want to thank the Duke academic community, coaches, staff, teammates, and managers for their contribution and impact on my growth and development both on and off the court.”
Blakes has always struggled to establish himself in the rotation, and his minutes have fallen this season.
As a sophomore, he averaged 13.6 minutes and 3.4 points a game, compared to 9.2 minutes and 1.8 points this year. Blakes started three of his 83 games at Duke.
“I’d also like to thank ‘the village’ of unique people who have been an incredible source of support, encouragement, and inspiration. “Thank you for always believing in me,” he added.
“Last but not least, I want to thank the fans and Cameron Crazies who have played a key role in my exciting and unforgettable experience.”
Blakes was regarded as a 4-star prospect and the No. 109 player in the country by 247Sports, with offers from Connecticut, Georgetown, Illinois, and Texas.
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