‘The Ultimate Connector.’ What Drew Scharnowski Brings to Duke Basketball

Throughout the offseason, “depth” has probably been the word associated with the 2026-27 Duke basketball roster the most, and for good reason.

Head coach Jon Scheyer and his staff did an outstanding job not only building a roster with a wealth of talent, but also a rotation that makes sense alongside each other.

Mar 26, 2026; Washington, DC, USA; Duke Blue Devils head coach Jon Scheyer stands on the court during a practice session ahead 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

Duke brought in two big-time transfer portal talents this offseason: star Wisconsin transfer guard John Blackwell, who could be the focal point of the offense this season, and Belmont forward Drew Scharnowski.

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Blackwell was one of the top players in the portal this offseason, so his addition obviously got a ton of buzz. However, Scharnowski’s impact shouldn’t fly under the radar.

Belmont’s Drew Scharnowski (11) blocks a shot by Bradley’s Jaquan Johnson in the second half of their college basketball game Monday, Feb. 9, 2026 at Carver Arena in Peoria. Johnson was fouled before the block. The Braves defeated the Bruins 95-84. | USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect

Defensively, Scharnowski is exactly what a Scheyer-led team wants. He’s a 6’9″ forward who can block shots, switch one through five, and run the floor in the break. Scharnowski also has active hands to generate steals and plays with a ton of physicality.

The former Bruin will fill some of the role Maliq Brown played, but I think you can argue that Scharnowski is even more versatile than Brown from a two-way perspective. Last season at Belmont, the forward averaged 10.7 points, 6.0 rebounds, 2.6 assists, and 1.3 blocks per game, earning First Team All-Missouri Valley Conference and All-MVC Defensive Team honors.

Mar 8, 2025; St. Louis, MO, Belmont Bruins forward Drew Scharnowski (11) catches the ball in front of Drake Bulldogs guard…

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Publish date : 2026-09-25 16:17:00

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