Duke University enters the 2026‑27 basketball season with one of the most talent‑laden rosters in college hoops, boasting depth at every position, a blend of size, shooting and experience that has analysts predicting a deep tournament run.
The only starting position still undecided is power forward, where Coach Jon Scheyer must choose between freshman forward Cameron Williams and veteran big man Joaquim Boumtje Boumtje.
The Contenders
Williams, a 7‑foot‑tall forward, brings a clean shooting stroke, refined footwork and the ability to guard multiple positions, making him an attractive NBA prospect, though many expect him to refine his game off the bench before earning a starter’s minutes.
Boumtje Boumtje, standing 7‑foot‑2, offers a rare combination of three‑point range, ball‑handling, passing vision and rim protection; his performance at the FIBA U17 World Cup saw him average 19.6 points, 10.9 rebounds and 2.1 blocks while shooting 59.8 % from the field and 53.1 % from beyond the arc, earning tournament MVP honors.
Alongside them, guards John Blackwell, Caleb Foster, Dame Sarr and forward Patrick Ngongba are slated to feature in the starting lineup, with Foster projected to run the point, though a minor debate persists over the exact distribution of minutes.
Coach Scheyer’s Decision
Analyst Jeff Borzello of ESPN currently leans toward Williams in his starting five, yet the conversation remains open, underscoring the uncertainty that surrounds Scheyer’s final call.
Whichever path the coach chooses, the decision will add a narrative thread to Duke’s campaign, a season that promises excitement thanks to the Blue Devils’ unparalleled depth and the potential impact of their emerging frontcourt.