Duke basketball made its first move in the transfer portal this offseason by securing a commitment from Cedric Coward, a 6-foot-6 wing from Washington State. Ranked the No. 14 overall player and No. 5 shooting guard in the On3 Transfer Portal Industry Rankings, Coward brings versatility, experience, and two-way potential to a Blue Devil roster already viewed as one of the most complete in the country.
Though Coward remains in the NBA Draft pool, he has publicly stated his intention to join Duke should he return to college basketball. The final decision is expected by the June 15 withdrawal deadline.
High Expectations and Strong Impressions
Speaking with The Field of 68, Coward cited both the strength of Duke’s roster and the culture fostered by head coach Jon Scheyer as central to his decision. His comments suggest a player eager to contribute to a program with championship aspirations.
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“Caleb Foster, me, the Boozer twins, Pat Ngongba, Isaiah Evans, we’ve got guys who are hungry and committed,” Coward said. “It’s a team full of competitors who want to do whatever it takes to win.”
That sentiment, while enthusiastic, also reflects a calculated choice. Coward chose Duke over offers from top programs like Alabama, drawn by a system that emphasizes ball movement, positional flexibility, and defensive intensity, areas where he has shown strength.
On-Court Value Beyond the Numbers
Coward’s journey through college basketball has been unorthodox but productive. Starting at Division III Willamette University, then moving to Eastern Washington, and most recently to Washington State, he has demonstrated steady development at each stop. In limited action last season due to a shoulder injury, Coward averaged 17.7 points, 7.0 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and 1.7 blocks per game, shooting 55.7% from the field and 40% from three.
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Though the sample size is small, his efficiency and all-around contributions suggest a player capable of impacting games on both ends. His combination of size and instincts could allow him to fill multiple roles on the wing or in the backcourt, depending on lineup needs.
A Fit for Duke’s Style and Structure
Assuming he returns to school, Coward is expected to compete for a starting role, either at shooting guard or small forward. His ability to space the floor and defend multiple positions aligns with how Scheyer has built the current roster. With the addition of players like Coward, Duke is positioned not only to remain nationally relevant but also to evolve stylistically into a team known for length, pace, and perimeter skill.
While his future hinges on his NBA Draft decision, Coward’s commitment to Duke represents a targeted move by a program that continues to prioritize both talent and fit.
