Wendell Moore: "Effort is something you can always give"

Duke freshman talks defense

Wendell Moore is one of the members of Duke’s freshman class of 2019-20. The 6-foot-5, 210 pound small forward was rated a four-star by 247 Sports and a five-star by Rivals.

Coach K raved about Moore’s ability to defend four different positions, if necessary.

“It’s all about winning,” Moore said. “So whether it’s a point guard or a big man, I’m willing to defend anyone, do anything, whatever.”

Moore explained his defensive prowess is a result of simple hard work.

“Defense, to me, is all about being aggressive,” he said. “Even if my offense isn’t going well that night, defense is something you can always do. Defense isn’t something that takes a lot of skill. It’s about giving effort, and effort is something you can always give.”

Moore said the freshman class is a tight-knit group.

“We spend literally every second together all day,” he said. “So we have no choice but to be close.”

Moore is still adjusting to the college game.

“Really, just the speed,” he said. “You’ve got a shorter window to get everything done. I’m used to being the best player on the court every single time. Now, I’m playing with five guys who were all the best player on their team. So we have to learn to play together and come together as a team.”

Moore grew up a fan of Duke, and he recalled some of his favorite players growing up, which could make some viewers feel old.

“I would probably say I was a Duke fan at a young age,” he said. “I watched all the guys that came through here: Jayson Tatum, Justise Winslow. Even guys I didn’t see, like Grant Hill.”