Top 5 Class of ’25 Forward Nate Ament Shocks Fans by Committing to Duke Blue Over Tennessee Vols Basketball…Read More….

In one of the most dramatic recruiting twists of the 2025 cycle, five-star forward Nate Ament, widely considered one of the premier prospects in the Class of 2025, announced his commitment to Duke University on Saturday afternoon. The decision stunned many in the basketball world, as Tennessee had long been considered the frontrunner to land the 6-foot-9 standout.

Ament, ranked among the top five overall players in his class, has been on the radar of nearly every powerhouse program in the country. His size, skill set, and versatility make him one of the most coveted forwards in recent memory. Known for his ability to dominate in the paint while also stretching the floor with his outside shooting, Ament has drawn comparisons to NBA stars who blend physicality with finesse.

For weeks, recruiting insiders suggested that Tennessee head coach Rick Barnes and his staff had built strong momentum. The Vols’ program appeared to be the favorite, especially after Ament’s official visit to Knoxville last month, where fans packed Thompson-Boling Arena to give him a taste of the atmosphere he could expect in the SEC. However, Duke quietly kept working behind the scenes, with head coach Jon Scheyer personally leading the charge to bring Ament to Durham.

On Saturday, during a nationally streamed announcement, Ament revealed his choice by pulling out a Duke cap, leaving Tennessee supporters stunned.

“This was one of the hardest decisions of my life,” Ament said. “Tennessee showed me a lot of love, and I respect what they’re building, but at the end of the day, Duke felt like home. Coach Scheyer and the staff laid out a vision for me, not just as a player but as a leader, and I couldn’t turn that down.”

The commitment immediately strengthens Duke’s 2025 recruiting class, which already ranked among the nation’s elite. Ament’s addition could push the Blue Devils into the top spot nationally, setting them up for another wave of championship expectations. Scheyer, who succeeded the legendary Mike Krzyzewski, has made recruiting wins like this a hallmark of his tenure, ensuring Duke remains a perennial powerhouse.

For Tennessee, the news is a bitter pill. The Vols have made major strides in recruiting in recent years and were hopeful Ament would be the centerpiece of their 2025 class. Losing out on such a high-profile prospect—especially after appearing to lead late in the race—marks a tough setback. Still, Barnes has built a reputation for player development and will no doubt look to regroup quickly.

Fans across social media reacted immediately, with Duke faithful celebrating the pickup and Tennessee supporters voicing frustration. Recruiting analysts noted that Ament’s decision reinforces Duke’s enduring allure, even in an era where NIL opportunities and regional ties often sway recruits.

With his commitment locked in, Nate Ament now shifts his focus back to his senior season, where he is expected to dominate at the high school level. If his trajectory continues, Duke fans may only get to enjoy him for one year before NBA scouts make him a lottery pick.

For now, though, the Blue Devils can celebrate a massive recruiting victory—one that sent shockwaves across college basketball.