That sentiment, while enthusiastic, also reflects a calculated choice. Coward chose Duke over offers from top programs like Alabama, drawn by a system that emphasizes ball movement, positional flexibility, and defensive intensity, areas where he has shown strength.

Coward has attracted attention from a number of high-major programs, including Alabama, Florida, Kansas, and Washington. According to On3’s Transfer Portal Rankings, he is rated as a four-star prospect, ranking 17th overall and seventh among shooting guards in the 2025 cycle.

Duke made a splash in the transfer portal by landing Washington State star Cedric Coward. The 6-foot-6 guard averaged 17.7 points, 7.0 rebounds and 3.7 assists last season for WSU, and his commitment marks the first addition the Blue Devils have made via the transfer portal this cycle.