Ranking Top 3 Players Duke Will Face in Non-Conference Slate

We have spent a ton of time this summer talking about Duke basketball’s upcoming non-conference slate for the 2026-27 college basketball season.

The Blue Devils will face arguably the toughest non-con schedule of any team in the sport next season, something that Duke fans are getting accustomed to under head coach Jon Scheyer.

Mar 27, 2026; Washington, DC, USA; Duke Blue Devils head coach Jon Scheyer reacts in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the East Regional of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Capital One Arena. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

However, all great teams have great players leading the charge. Let’s go over the top three players Duke will face in the non-conference.

Apr 6, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Connecticut Huskies guard Silas Demary Jr. (2) shoots against Michigan Wolverines guard Roddy Gayle Jr. (11) in the second half during the national championship of the Final Four of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

3. Silas Demary Jr. – UConn

I debated between Silas Demary Jr. and Illinois’ Andrej Stojakovic for the third spot here, but the sheer impact I expect Demary to have for the Huskies pushes him into the list.

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With Alex Karaban now in the NBA and Solo Ball out for the season, Demary will be absolutely crucial to the Huskies’ success. With his elite perimeter defense, toughness, knack for finishing at the basket, and high IQ, Demary could legitimately be the best point guard in college hoops next season.

Mar 29, 2026; Washington, DC, USA; UConn Huskies guard Silas Demary Jr. (2) dribbles the ball against the Duke Blue Devils 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 | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

In 2025-26, Demary averaged 10.1 points, 4.5 rebounds, 5.9 assists, and 1.6 steals a night on 44.6%…

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Publish date : 2026-08-18 10:30:00

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