Duke Sends Clear Message After Making Coaching Move

The Duke Blue Devils continue to prove that they're consistent national title contenders after a 35-4 season that included the program's 18th trip to the Final Four. 

Duke entered the NCAA Tournament as a No. 1 seed after winning the ACC Tournament title. The Blue Devils wound up defeating Mount St. Mary's, Baylor, Arizona and Alabama en route to the Final Four, where they lost in the semifinals to the Houston Cougars. 

As head coach Jon Scheyer and the Blue Devils prepare to make another deep run, they added a familiar face to the coaching staff. On Friday, Duke announced the official hiring of former Blue Devils player Tyler Thornton as an assistant coach. 

Upon the release of the announcement, Thornton shared his reaction to joining the Duke staff. 

“As a former Duke player, it’s incredibly humbling to return to the program as a member of the coaching staff," Thornton said. "I’m grateful for the opportunity to help the next generation of players achieve their dreams. My passion for the game has always been rooted in doing whatever it takes to win. I’m ready to support Coach Scheyer and contribute in any way that helps our program continue to compete at a championship level.”