Duke Adds Much-Needed Experience Through Transfer Portal
By Joe Summers
The Blue Devils reportedly landed a major recruit on Friday as Tulane transfer guard Sion James plans to join Jon Scheyer's program.
James brings much-needed experience to Duke as a four-year starter for the Green Wave. He averaged 14.0 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game on 51.4% shooting in 2023 and will likely join Tyrese Proctor as a starter in the backcourt.
For a Duke team that's lost several starters, James' commitment represents a huge win.
Duke News: Blue Devils Land Tulane Transfer Sion James
NEWS: Tulane transfer guard Sion James has committed to Duke, he tells @On3sports.
— Joe Tipton (@TiptonEdits) May 10, 2024
The 6-6 junior averaged 14.0 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game this season. https://t.co/rA3xr0iPNa pic.twitter.com/GWHQZqUVO8
A former four-star recruit, James has 106 starts under his belt and could quickly become a fan favorite thanks to his smart passing, stellar scoring ability, and superb athleticism.
James is 6'6" and 220 lbs with exciting on-ball defensive skills, making him a natural fit on most rosters, especially Duke's. He'll perfectly complement incoming star freshman Cooper Flagg, who shot 38.1% from beyond the arc this year, showcasing an ability to space the floor plus attack the paint.
Sion James with 22, 7, 6 assists in Tulane's win over Memphis. Made big plays late attacking the rim, hitting 3s, setting up teammates. Have always been drawn to his connector skill set for next level. Jacked at 6-6, 220, now at 42.7% 3PT, 60% 2PT, good passer, plays some PG. pic.twitter.com/Qr0egyofuJ
— Jonathan Wasserman (@NBADraftWass) January 22, 2024
The Blue Devils need versatile players to maximize Flagg's skillset. James fits that mold but is fully capable of single-handedly taking over a game. He scored 28 points with 10 rebounds while shooting 11-of-15 from the field to end the season against North Texas, and I'd bet he emerges as one of Duke's most consistent offensive weapons in 2024-25.
He'll go from a Tulane squad that lost eight of its last nine games to a Blue Devils team with NCAA title aspirations. Whether or not he properly adjusts could ultimately determine Duke's ceiling moving forward.
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