An update on Duke basketball transfer commit super star may come sooner rather than later, as his stock continues to rise during the NBA Draft Combine.
He, who transferred from Washington State and committed to Duke just two weeks ago, has quickly climbed draft boards. At this point, it’s looking unlikely he’ll ever suit up for the Blue Devils — something he essentially confirmed during a Wednesday press conference.
“I’m fully focused on the draft,” he said in a video shared by Isaac Trotter on social media.
He added that he’s keeping head coach Jon Scheyer and the rest of the Duke staff in the loop throughout the process. “They’re totally supportive of me chasing this dream,” he said.
Coward impressed teams in workouts leading up to the Combine and continued to shine during Tuesday’s shooting drills and physical testing, further bolstering his case as a potential first-round pick.
The 6-foot-6 wing has opted not to participate in the Combine’s 5-on-5 scrimmages. He was also Duke’s only notable addition via the transfer portal this offseason.
Coward mentioned he doesn’t need a firm commitment from an NBA team to stay in the draft, but will base his decision on the overall feedback he receives.
Despite the growing draft buzz, Coward made it clear he’s not turning his back on Duke.
“I chose them for a reason,” he said when asked how Duke might have helped him improve his draft prospects if he returned to school.
“It’s tough because people assume I’m using Duke for clout or attention, but I truly love Coach Scheyer and the staff. If I went there, I believe they’d help me grow.”
Coward has until May 28 to officially decide whether he’ll remain in the NBA Draft or return to college to play for Duke.