Duke Blue Devils Star Freshman Isaiah Evans Honored with Prestigious National Freshman of the Year Award, Cementing His Rising Stardom and Impactful Debut Season in College Basketball…read more…

Duke Blue Devils Star Freshman Isaiah Evans Honored with Prestigious National Freshman of the Year Award, Cementing His Rising Stardom and Impactful Debut Season in College Basketball…read more…

DURHAM, N.C. — In a moment that confirms his meteoric rise in college basketball, Duke Blue Devils freshman guard Isaiah Evans has been named the recipient of the prestigious National Freshman of the Year Award. The announcement, made Friday by the National Association of Basketball Writers, marks a significant milestone in what has been a breakout debut season for the highly touted first-year player.

Evans, a 6-foot-7 wing out of North Carolina, arrived at Duke with plenty of hype as a consensus five-star recruit. Few could have anticipated just how quickly he would adapt to the college game. Known for his scoring instincts, length, and defensive energy, Evans immediately made his presence felt under head coach Jon Scheyer’s system, blending raw talent with a mature approach to the game.

“It’s an incredible honor,” Evans said during a press conference at Cameron Indoor Stadium. “To win an award like this in my first year means everything. I want to thank Coach Scheyer, my teammates, and everyone at Duke who believed in me and pushed me every day.”

Evans has averaged an impressive 17.3 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game, while shooting nearly 38% from beyond the arc and maintaining a strong presence on defense with over one steal per game. His consistency, poise, and ability to take over late in games have made him a fan favorite in Durham and a growing name in national conversations.

Coach Scheyer spoke glowingly about the young star. “Isaiah has been tremendous for us—not just in the box score, but in how he carries himself. His leadership, his work ethic, and his willingness to learn are rare in a freshman. This award is a reflection of all that.”

In addition to this national accolade, Evans has also earned:

ACC Freshman of the Week honors six times

A spot on the All-ACC Second Team

Finalist consideration for the Julius Erving Award, given to the nation’s top small forward

Evans’ on-court brilliance has also helped Duke remain in the national Top 10 rankings throughout the season. Alongside fellow phenom Cooper Flagg and a deep, talented roster, the Blue Devils have emerged as a formidable contender for the NCAA title. Evans has especially shined in key matchups, including a 28-point performance against North Carolina and a game-winning shot versus Virginia.

As March Madness looms, Evans remains focused. “The season’s not over. Awards are great, but our goal is a national championship. We’re locked in and ready to make a run,” he added.

With NBA scouts already projecting him as a lottery pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, Isaiah Evans continues to rise. But for now, the freshman phenom is grounded, hungry, and committed to leading Duke to glory.

This award is just the beginning of what looks to be a long and successful basketball journey — one that started with brilliance in Durham and is now reaching national recognition.