DUKE BLUE DEVILS BRING BACK FORMER FAN FAVORITE COLEMAN JONES AS ASSISTANT BASKETBALL COACH……read more…….

DUKE BLUE DEVILS BRING BACK FORMER FAN FAVORITE COLEMAN JONES AS ASSISTANT BASKETBALL COACH……read more…….

In a thrilling and heartwarming announcement for Duke Blue Devils fans, the program has brought back one of its most beloved players, Coleman Jones, as an assistant basketball coach. Jones, who became a fan favorite during his time as a player in the early 2010s, returns to Cameron Indoor Stadium with a wealth of basketball experience and an unyielding passion for the game. His return is expected to have a profound impact on the Blue Devils as they continue to chase greatness under head coach Jon Scheyer.

Jones, a standout forward from 2010 to 2014, made a name for himself with his athleticism, high basketball IQ, and tenacious work ethic. He was known for his gritty style of play, ability to stretch the floor, and relentless energy on both ends of the court. During his time at Duke, Jones helped lead the Blue Devils to numerous victories, including deep NCAA tournament runs. He played a pivotal role in the team’s success, becoming a key contributor and a fan favorite due to his never-say-die attitude and his commitment to winning.

After leaving Duke, Jones went on to play professionally, both in the NBA and overseas. His international playing career allowed him to further hone his skills and knowledge of the game, giving him invaluable experience that he is now eager to pass on to the next generation of Blue Devils.

“I’m beyond excited to be back at Duke,” Jones said in his first press conference as an assistant coach. “This place means everything to me. It helped shape who I am, both as a player and as a person. Now, I have the opportunity to give back and help these young players grow, not just as basketball players, but as individuals who can excel both on and off the court.”

Jones will work closely with Duke’s forwards and big men, helping to develop their skills and elevate their game to the highest level. His focus will be on player development, teaching the fundamentals of both offense and defense, and preparing the players for the mental and physical demands of the ACC and NCAA tournaments. Jones will also assist in scouting and game planning, using his expertise to help Duke remain a national powerhouse.

“Coleman is a great addition to our staff,” said head coach Jon Scheyer. “He’s not only a talented player, but also an incredible mentor and leader. His experience both at Duke and at the professional level is invaluable, and we know he’s going to make a huge impact on our players. We’re lucky to have him back in the fold.”

Jones’ return has already generated a great deal of excitement among Duke fans, who fondly remember his time as a player. His determination, leadership, and ability to rise to the occasion made him a beloved figure in the Blue Devils’ basketball community. Now, as a coach, fans are hopeful that he will help Duke return to the top of college basketball.

“I’ve always admired Coleman’s work ethic and his passion for the game,” said Duke alum and former teammate Mason Plumlee. “He was the type of player who always gave his best, no matter what. I know that’s the kind of energy he’s going to bring as a coach. He’s going to help these guys reach their full potential.”

Jones’ transition to coaching has been seamless. He has already made an impact in the gym, working with Duke’s current players to improve their skills. His approach to coaching is grounded in the same principles that defined his playing career: hard work, focus, and a commitment to the team.

“As a player, I always wanted to get better every day,” Jones explained. “That’s what I want to instill in these guys. The key to success is making progress each day and never getting comfortable. The best players are always striving to improve, and that’s the mindset I want to help develop here.”

Duke’s basketball program has been in a period of transition following the retirement of legendary coach Mike Krzyzewski, but under Scheyer’s leadership, the Blue Devils have remained competitive on the national stage. Jones’ return is seen as a key piece in maintaining the program’s success, especially in developing players and creating a winning culture.

“The culture at Duke is something special,” Jones said. “I want to help these guys understand that it’s not just about basketball; it’s about how we represent this university and the values we uphold. We want to win, but we also want to do it the right way.”

As the Blue Devils prepare for the upcoming season, all eyes will be on Jones to see how he can help elevate the program’s big men and forwards. With his unique blend of experience, knowledge, and passion for Duke basketball, he is poised to play a pivotal role in the team’s success moving forward.

For Jones, returning to Duke is not just a job — it’s a return to his roots. He is eager to take what he’s learned over the years and give it back to the university that gave him so much.

“I owe a lot to this program,” Jones said. “Duke shaped me into the person I am today, and I’m ready to help shape the future of this program. We’re going to do great things together.”

With Coleman Jones back in the fold, the Duke Blue Devils are poised for continued success, and fans can look forward to another chapter in the storied legacy of Blue Devils basketball.