Here’s a bold statement: In the high-stakes world of college basketball, where every point and play seems to matter, Duke’s head coach Jon Scheyer is flipping the script with a mantra that’s as unconventional as it is powerful—the ‘98 percent’ rule. But here’s where it gets controversial: while most coaches preach giving 100 percent, Scheyer argues that it’s the other 98 percent—the plays without the ball—that truly define a championship team. Intrigued? Let’s dive in.
In Durham, anyone stepping into Duke’s basketball program quickly learns that Scheyer’s philosophy isn’t about flashy highlights or individual stardom. It’s about consistency in the unseen moments—rebounding, defensive positioning, and the next-play mentality. As Scheyer explained at the ACC Tipoff, ‘The best teams I’ve been a part of, as both a player and a coach, are the ones that master the 98 percent.’ This isn’t just a catchy phrase; it’s a mindset drilled into players through practice, film sessions, and relentless repetition.
And this is the part most people miss: The ball is in a player’s hands only 2 percent of the time—unless you’re a point guard. Sure, a 30-point game can steal the spotlight, but Scheyer believes championships are won in the details. Think diving for a loose ball, getting a key deflection, or being in the right defensive position. It’s the small things that add up to big wins.
Take last year’s Blue Devils, for example. Led by phenom freshman Cooper Flagg, they were as talented as any team in the nation. But what set them apart was their buy-in to the 98 percent mantra. Scheyer notes, ‘It’s a big adjustment for high school players. They’re used to being judged by their ball-handling skills, but the NBA now values low-usage guys—players who excel without the ball.’
This season, Duke’s roster is a fascinating mix of seasoned veterans like junior Caleb Foster and senior Maliq Brown, alongside five-star recruits like the Boozer twins and freshman Dame Sarr. Foster puts it bluntly: ‘The margin of error in college basketball is slim. You can’t let the 98 percent slip.’ He leads by example, crashing the boards and locking down on defense, proving that mastering the details is non-negotiable.
Now, let’s talk about Isaiah ‘Slim’ Evans, the 6-foot-6 sophomore sharpshooter who dropped 18 points in a half against Auburn last season. Scheyer sees Evans as more than just a shooter. ‘We want to enhance his game,’ Scheyer says, ‘but his defense, rebounding, and off-ball activity are where he needs to take the next step.’ It’s a reminder that even the most talented players must embrace the 98 percent to truly shine.
Here’s a thought-provoking question: In a sport dominated by highlight reels, is Scheyer’s focus on the unglamorous 98 percent a genius strategy or a risky gamble? The Blue Devils’ 2025 ACC championship and Final Four run suggest the former, but this year’s team faces even higher expectations. With exhibition games against Central Florida and Tennessee under their belt, they’ll open the 2025-26 season against Texas on November 4. The goal? Another shot at the Final Four, where, as Scheyer puts it, ‘There’s either glory or heartbreak. No in-between.’
As Brown and Foster admit, last year’s semifinal loss to Houston still stings. But it’s also fuel for this season’s fire. ‘If you keep putting yourself in that position, ultimately it’s going to happen,’ Scheeyer says. And with a roster this deep, the Blue Devils are poised to make another run.
So, what do you think? Is the 98 percent rule the key to sustained success, or is there room for a more balanced approach? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments—and don’t be afraid to disagree. After all, in basketball, as in life, the details are what spark the most interesting debates.
