Blue Devil Country

Insider Shares 'Bad News' for Duke Basketball Roster

Recent Duke basketball transfer pledge Cedric Coward continues to showcase his pro-ready repertoire.
Matt Giles|
Duke basketball head coach Jon Scheyer
Duke basketball head coach Jon Scheyer | Robert Deutsch-Imagn Images

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Just pick a random leaderboard from Tuesday's athletic and skill testing results at the NBA Draft Combine in Chicago's Wintrust Arena. Duke basketball transfer commit Cedric Coward is likely right there among the best, if not at the top of the list.

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Climbing NBA Draft big boards with ferocity, the former Washington State and Eastern Washington standout guard is looking less and less like a guy who needs another year in college considering his stock is so clearly surging at full steam this go-round.

"Maybe someone who's helped themselves more than anyone so far in Chicago," 247Sports' Adam Finkelstein explained on Tuesday evening while live on the scene of Coward's surge. "And Duke, this is bad news — sorry to break it to you — but Cedric Coward has got some serious buzz right now...He looks like he is trending toward being a potential first-round pick.

"So, the decision-making looks like it could be flipping...It's either Duke or the NBA. Right now, it looks like the NBA may be the favorite."

NBA TV's Krysten Peek seems to agree.

"Buy stock now in Cedric Coward," Peek wrote while Coward was shining on Tuesday afternoon. "A 6-foot-6 guard with a 7-foot-1 wingspan. Recorded a max vert of 38.5 inches and he's shooting the ball extremely well in drills.

"Currently committed to Duke...but could rise quickly in the draft after this week."

Cedric Coward has until May 28 to withdraw his name from the June 25-26 NBA Draft and retain his remaining year of eligibility on the college stage.

Stay tuned to Duke Blue Devils On SI for more Duke basketball news.

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Matt Giles
MATT GILES

Matt Giles is the editor and publisher of Duke Blue Devils on SI, North Carolina Tar Heels on SI, and NC State Wolfpack on SI, making him a key source for comprehensive coverage of these storied college basketball programs. Since joining SI in 2022, Matt has been dedicated to providing in-depth analysis, breaking news, and exclusive content on all three teams. He covers everything from game previews and recaps to player profiles and recruiting updates. Matt's expert knowledge of these teams has made his work a go-to resource for fans and followers of Duke, NC State, and UNC. As publisher, he shapes the editorial direction, ensuring that the most relevant and timely information reaches his audience.

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