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Jayson Tatum Sends Message to Jon Scheyer Ahead of Duke's Final Four Matchup

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Cole Sullivan | Last updated Apr 4, 2025 3:22 PM ET

The No. 1 seed Duke Blue Devils are gearing up for a highly anticipated showdown with the Houston Cougars on Saturday night, marking the team’s first Final Four appearance since 2022 and the first under head coach Jon Scheyer.

On Thursday, it was announced that Scheyer has received the prestigious honor of being named the 2025 John McLendon National Coach of the Year in Division I college basketball.

Following the big news for Jon Scheyer, he received special messages from many people in his circle, including fellow Duke legend and current Boston Celtics superstar Jayson Tatum, who had some heartfelt words for his former teammate and coach.

"Jon or Coach Scheyer, all jokes aside, I wanted to congratulate you on being National Coach of the Year," Tatum said. "Super happy for you, nobody more deserving, the best in the business, man. So much deserved. Excited for you and your family and the rest of the guys. But don't let this get to your head, I still need you to stay motivated and humble. And always remember, no matter how many awards you win, I still shoot better than you. Congrats, my guy, happy for you."

NBA Champion, NBA Superstar, and one of the best to ever play at Duke, Jayson Tatum congratulates Jon Scheyer on winning the 2025 John McLendon National Coach of the Year and reminds him who the better shooter is. #2025CIAwards @DukeMBB @jaytatum0 pic.twitter.com/6rYyoPE3V6
— College Insider Inc. (@collegeinsider) April 3, 2025

While Jayson Tatum’s time at Duke was brief, with just one season before heading to the NBA, he still left an indelible mark on the program. His freshman year remains one of the best single-season performances in Duke history.

Now, Jon Scheyer is coaching a freshman with a similar level of potential in Cooper Flagg, who could very well follow in Tatum's footsteps and make the jump to the NBA after this season—one that they hope will end with a national championship.

The Blue Devils will face a tough test against Houston, who boast the top-ranked defense in the country. However, Duke counters with the nation's No. 1-rated offense.

Here is how both Duke & Houston stack up head-to-head in some key offensive & defensive metrics: pic.twitter.com/tegdN1AQEa
— PoolGenius (@PoolGenius) April 3, 2025

According to DraftKings Sportsbook, Duke enters the Final Four matchup as a 5 1/2-point favorite against Houston. Meanwhile, in the other semifinal, the Florida Gators are favored by 2 1/2 points over the Auburn Tigers. Both games are set to unfold on Saturday night in San Antonio.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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