Basketball

Maxime Meyer’s Leap from Hockey to Duke’s Elite 2026 Class

The Canadian forward's rapid rise, fueled by family legacy and international experience, lands him among the nation's top recruits.

Maxime Meyer grew up skating on the frozen ponds of Toronto, where his talent as a hockey prospect hinted at a future in professional sport.

His mother, Valerie Samson, was a standout player for Laval University’s women’s basketball team, embedding a love for the game in the household.

A New Chapter in Florida

At 15, Meyer left Canada for Bradenton, Florida, to attend IMG Academy, a move that accelerated his transition to basketball and earned him a spot on Team Canada’s junior national squad.

In April, the forward announced his commitment to Duke University, selecting the Blue Devils over a slate of suitors that included Florida, SMU and Vanderbilt, a decision that helped preserve the program’s top‑ranked 2026 recruiting class.

Meyer will join the Blue Devils in mid‑June after competing with Canada at the FIBA U18 Men’s AmeriCup 2026, stepping into one of college basketball’s deepest frontcourts.

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