Where Duke's Transfer Portal Class Ranks Nationally

In seven of the past nine seasons, Duke's leading scorer has been a freshman. However, that is likely to change in 2026-27.

The Blue Devils still boast the No. 1 overall 2026 recruiting class, but prioritized roster continuity and veteran leadership this offseason. College basketball is shifting, and Scheyer and Co. are adapting.

Where Does Duke's Transfer Portal Class Rank?

The Blue Devils are bringing in three transfers, some high-profile, others more of a depth piece. Nonetheless, each will play their respective roles.

According to 247Sports, Duke's portal class ranks at No. 11 in the nation with its three commits. Programs in the ACC with a higher-ranked portal class include Louisville (No. 1), Miami (No 5), and North Carolina (No. 6).

The Players Who Make Up Duke's Portal Class

John Blackwell - Wisconsin

John Blackwell is undoubtedly the headliner of Duke's portal class, ranked as the No. 3 overall player in the transfer portal per 247Sports. As a junior with Wisconsin this past season, the 6'4" guard established himself as one of the best scorers in college hoops.

The Michigan native averaged 19.1 points on 43% shooting from the field and 38.9% shooting from three on 7.3 attempts. Blackwell tallied 15 games of over 20 points scored and five of over 30 scored, including two in a row in the Big Ten Tournament.

Blackwell wanted to move to a program where he could have the ball in his hands and be the go-to guy offensively. As a career 44% shooter from the field an 37% shooter from the perimeter, he will have that freedom with the Blue Devils.

Drew Scharnowski - Belmont

Drew Scharnowski was the first commit of Duke's class. The 6'9", 230-pound forward just wrapped up his sophomore campaign with the Bruins, averaging 10.7 points, 6.0 rebounds, 2.6 assists, and 2.1 stocks a game on 68.1% shooting from the field.

Scharnowski was a First Team All-Missouri Valley Conference and MVC All-Defensive Team selection this past season. Both Scharnowski and Ngongba averaged over two assists a night in 2025-26, making the pair one of the best passing big duos in the sport.

Jacob Theodosiou - Loyola Maryland

Jacob Theodosiou was a late addition to the class and will serve a key role as a depth piece and practice player, but likely won't see much time on the floor.

The 6'4" guard has spent the last two seasons of his collegiate career at Loyola Maryland after spending a year at Wyoming. In 2025-26, Theodosiou averaged 13.1 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 2.7 assists on 46.1% shooting from the field.