Duke Basketball Joins Competition for Top Transfer Guard

Duke Basketball Eyes Ivy League Transfer Guard for Major Impact

The Duke basketball program has brought in several Ivy League transfers over recent years, though not all have made a significant impact. Some players have simply sought to continue their education while serving as practice players. However, it looks like Duke’s recruiting efforts have shifted toward a transfer that could make a bigger splash.

On Tuesday, Adam Zagoria of The New York Times reported that Duke has joined a growing list of teams showing strong interest in Xaivian Lee, a standout guard from Princeton.

Before Duke’s involvement, North Carolina, Florida, and St. John’s were among the schools vying for Lee’s attention. Shortly after, Duke, BYU, and Stanford also entered the fray. A 6-foot-4, 180-pound junior, Lee has earned All-Ivy League honors twice. In the 2024-25 season, he was a full-time starter for Princeton, averaging 16.9 points, 6.1 rebounds, 5.5 assists, and 1.2 steals per game while shooting 36.6% from beyond the arc.

Lee offers a combination of experience and versatility, making him an appealing prospect for Duke’s fourth-year head coach Jon Scheyer. Following last year’s portal additions, which reflected Scheyer’s emphasis on toughness and veteran leadership, Lee could bring both qualities to the Blue Devils’ roster.

As Duke aims to strengthen its roster for the upcoming season, adding a proven player like Lee could provide valuable depth and skill to their backcourt. The Blue Devils are hoping to secure his commitment and add another key piece for next season.