The Real Reason Patrick Ngongba Just Saved Duke 2026 Title Hopes

The Duke basketball program returned much more of its rotation from last season than most fans are used to seeing. Of the three starters that head coach Jon Scheyer and his staff were able to get back, arguably none were more important than big man Patrick Ngongba.

Ngongba will enter his junior season in Durham with the potential to be an All-ACC performer. The 6’11” big man was the Blue Devils’ biggest breakout during the 2025-26 season, and figures to grow even more in his third year with the program.

Mar 29, 2026; Washington, DC, USA; Duke Blue Devils head coach Jon Scheyer looks on against the UConn Huskies in the first half during an Elite Eight game of the East Regional of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Capital One Arena. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images | Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

The Virginia native went from averaging 3.9 points and 2.7 rebounds as a rookie, sitting behind future top-10 NBA Draft choice Khaman Maluach, to averaging 10.1 points, 5.8 rebounds, 2.0 assists, and 1.1 blocks a night on 60.6% shooting from the field.

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Ngongba Could Have Been First-Round Pick in 2026 NBA Draft

Mar 29, 2026; Washington, DC, USA; UConn Huskies forward Tarris Reed Jr. (5) loses the ball as he goes to the basket against Duke Blue Devils center Patrick Ngongba (21)in the second half during an Elite Eight game of the East Regional of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Capital One Arena. Mandatory Credit: Amber Searls-Imagn Images | Amber Searls-Imagn Images

Across his sophomore campaign, Ngongba grew in more ways than most Duke fans thought was feasible. His footwork, ability to protect the rim, and offensive arsenal as a whole improved dramatically.

After attempting just one three-pointer through his entire rookie year, Ngongba attempted 31 as a sophomore, connecting on eight. As a proven defensive anchor, shot-blocker, and passer, Ngongba played his way into becoming a projected first-round pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, leaving an intriguing decision following the…

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Publish date : 2026-06-13 10:00:00

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