With Duke’s run in the NCAA Tournament coming to an end at the hands of Houston in the Final Four, attention now shifts to how the Blue Devils will shape their roster for next season. A number of current players face key decisions this offseason—whether to enter the NBA Draft, explore the transfer portal, or return to Durham. One thing is clear: Jon Scheyer’s squad is expected to look significantly different next season.
However, one decision has already been made—freshman has confirmed he will return to Duke. He made that announcement almost immediately after the loss to Houston, during a postgame locker room interview.
“I’m still a little shocked,” Darren Harris said. “The season just ended, and we’ve been grinding since last May. It hurts, especially because we’re so close as teammates. I’m just thankful to have played alongside these guys.”
When asked directly if he would be back next year, Harris replied, “Yes, that is the plan.”
Harris had limited opportunities this season, largely due to Duke’s top-ranked 2024 recruiting class, which featured standouts like Cooper Flagg, Kon Knueppel, and Khaman Maluach. He played in 21 games, logging double-digit minutes just twice, and averaged 2.0 points and 1.1 rebounds in six minutes per game.
While he’ll return with a year of experience, a spot in next year’s rotation is far from guaranteed. Scheyer is bringing in another No. 1 recruiting class in 2025, led by highly touted twins Cameron and Cayden Boozer.
As a former four-star recruit, Harris will need to show significant progress over the summer and preseason to carve out a consistent role. That said, most of Duke’s incoming talent is in the frontcourt, with Cayden Boozer being the lone true guard.
The offseason decisions of other Blue Devils could also impact Harris’s chances. Sion James is leaving due to graduation, while Tyrese Proctor, Caleb Foster, and Isaiah Evans all have choices to make regarding their futures. With Duke reportedly having between $8–10 million in NIL funds available for portal additions, it’s likely Scheyer will target an experienced guard—adding even more competition for Harris.
