CBS NEWS: College Basketball Analyst Declares Jon Scheyer as the ‘Next Mike Krzyzewski’
In a bold declaration that has sent ripples through the world of college basketball, renowned CBS Sports analyst Greg Anthony has named Jon Scheyer as the “next Mike Krzyzewski” in his analysis of the future of Duke University’s men’s basketball program. Anthony, a former NBA player and respected basketball commentator, made the statement during a live broadcast, praising Scheyer’s potential to follow in the legendary footsteps of Krzyzewski, who retired in 2022 after an unparalleled coaching career.
Scheyer, who took over as head coach of the Duke Blue Devils following Krzyzewski’s retirement, has been under close scrutiny ever since his appointment. While his tenure as a player at Duke from 2006 to 2010 solidified his place in the program’s storied history, his transition into coaching has raised questions about whether he can live up to the immense expectations set by one of the greatest coaches in college basketball history. However, Anthony’s endorsement has added significant weight to Scheyer’s burgeoning coaching career.
“Jon Scheyer is the next Mike Krzyzewski. I have no doubt about that,” Anthony said. “He has the leadership, the understanding of the game, and the ability to connect with players. He doesn’t just come from a great lineage—he’s ready to write his own legacy. And that legacy is going to be one of sustained excellence at Duke.”
Scheyer, 37, spent over a decade as an assistant under Krzyzewski before taking the helm of the Blue Devils. During his time as an assistant, Scheyer helped develop some of the nation’s top players, including Zion Williamson, RJ Barrett, and Jayson Tatum. His ability to recruit elite talent and foster team chemistry, coupled with his deep understanding of Krzyzewski’s philosophy, positioned him as a natural successor.
Anthony’s endorsement of Scheyer comes at a time when Duke’s basketball program is experiencing a period of transition. While the team had a strong start under Scheyer in his first season as head coach, there have been growing pains, as is typical when a program transitions from one coaching legend to another. However, Scheyer’s ability to recruit top-tier talent, his tactical acumen, and his respect for the Duke tradition have been praised by many within the basketball community.
The comparison to Krzyzewski, who amassed five NCAA championships and became the winningest coach in men’s Division I basketball history, is no small feat. Krzyzewski’s legacy at Duke is immeasurable, and the expectations for his successor are monumental. However, Anthony believes that Scheyer possesses the necessary qualities to build on that foundation and continue the program’s success.
“Scheyer has the pedigree, but more importantly, he has the mentality,” Anthony continued. “He’s calm under pressure, he understands the dynamics of college basketball, and he knows how to handle the expectations. It’s not just about winning games; it’s about managing people, building relationships with recruits, and maintaining the culture that Mike Krzyzewski built. Jon has already shown he can do that.”
While the comparison to Krzyzewski may be intimidating for some, it has the potential to propel Scheyer to even greater heights. His first full season as head coach has been met with cautious optimism, as he has already shown the ability to bring in high-caliber recruits, including several top-ranked players for the upcoming season. His leadership and success on the recruiting trail suggest that he is on the right path to achieving the same level of success that Krzyzewski enjoyed.
As the Duke Blue Devils continue to evolve under Scheyer’s leadership, the spotlight will undoubtedly remain on the young head coach. With Anthony’s endorsement and growing support from the basketball community, the pressure to succeed will only intensify. However, Scheyer’s ability to navigate that pressure and lead Duke back to the pinnacle of college basketball will ultimately determine whether he can truly become the “next Mike Krzyzewski” and etch his name into the program’s rich history.