Blue Devil Country

Duke Basketball Warns Against Getting in Way of Imposing Guard

Thanks in part to Sion James, Duke basketball shouldn't get pushed around next season.

Matt Giles

Duke basketball transfer addition Sion James
Duke basketball transfer addition Sion James / Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports
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The four Duke basketball transfer additions are no strangers to weights. That's particularly noticeable in the case of former four-year Tulane guard Sion James.

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A strikingly chiseled 6-foot-6 frame such as his represents a show of force that Jon Scheyer's first two Duke basketball teams lacked. And the Blue Devils' social media accounts aren't hiding it.

Judging by the following posted photos on Wednesday night — not to mention the caption, "Couple flicks for anyone thinking about trying to draw a charge on Sion James this season" — one could infer that Duke is looking to plant a seed of fear in the minds of any 2024-25 opponents who might otherwise dare to step in front of the program's new human bulldozer:

He appears even more bulked up than he did as an aggressive weapon on both ends of the floor for Tulane last season in averaging 14.0 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 1.6 steals per game. Now, the 21-year-old Sion James, a lifelong Duke basketball fan, has a chance to compete for a starting nod right away in Durham.

If he doesn't land that role, it's a safe bet he'll be among the first Blue Devils off the bench and serve as the squad's jumbo perimeter sparkplug.

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Matt Giles
MATT GILES

Matt Giles is the editor and publisher of Duke Blue Devils on SI, North Carolina Tar Heels on SI, and NC State Wolfpack on SI, making him a key source for comprehensive coverage of these storied college basketball programs. Since joining SI in 2022, Matt has been dedicated to providing in-depth analysis, breaking news, and exclusive content on all three teams. He covers everything from game previews and recaps to player profiles and recruiting updates. Matt's expert knowledge of these teams has made his work a go-to resource for fans and followers of Duke, NC State, and UNC. As publisher, he shapes the editorial direction, ensuring that the most relevant and timely information reaches his audience.

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