The Duke Blue Devils played without their head coach Jon Scheyer on Saturday as they faced the SMU Mustangs, marking the first time he has missed coaching duties since taking over the role three seasons ago.
Scheduled to tip off at 2:15 PM ET at Moody Coliseum, the No. 4-ranked Blue Devils entered the game with an 11-2 record, having won three consecutive matches to start their Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) campaign. Scheyer, having led Duke to notable successes with a 65-20 record, was absent due to illness, including flu-like symptoms he had been experiencing earlier during the week.
The announcement of Scheyer's absence came from Duke just minutes before the game, noting the head coach did not travel with the team to Dallas. Associate head coach Chris Carrawell, who has been part of Duke's coaching staff since 2018, took the reins as acting head coach.
Carrawell, who became Scheyer’s associate coach after serving under legendary coach Mike Krzyzewski as assistant, had the immediate task of guiding the Blue Devils through this early ACC matchup against SMU (11-2, 2-0). Before this game, SMU had secured impressive victories, underlining their strength as they ranked first in the ACC for points per game and shooting efficiency.
The match itself was filled with significance as it marked the first encounter between these two teams since their meeting during the 1988 NCAA Tournament. Scheyer’s absence was especially felt as Duke aimed to maintain its momentum early in the season, jostling for position within the ACC standings against a formidable opponent.
During the game, Duke fought valiantly under the leadership of Carrawell, who was no stranger to the high-pressure environment, having participated as one of the standout players during his collegiate career. The Blue Devils' strategy focused on maintaining their season-best winning streak intact. It was noted during broadcasts how Carrawell's dynamic style mirrored his playing days, bringing the players together cohesively.
Throughout the game, Carrawell’s pre-game preparations included instilling confidence and rallying the team around their goal, aiming to leverage their strengths against SMU's relentless offense. Considering the stakes, it was clear he was ready to lead the team, having developed professional relationships with the players since his entry to Duke basketball coaching ranks.
Fortunately for Duke, their strategy paid off as they managed to secure an 89-62 victory against SMU, demonstrating their resolve even without their head coach on the sidelines. The team's performance highlighted their organization depth and adaptability, important elements as they strive for success early this season.
Following the game, the expectation was evident from the coaching staff and players around when Scheyer would resume his head coaching duties. The illness kept him from joining the team, as it was reported he was feeling too unwell to travel. Nonetheless, hope lingered among the fans and the program alike, with Scheyer reportedly ready to return to the bench for Duke's home game against Pitt on January 7.
Carrawell’s successful stewardship during this pivotal game reasserted his abilities as part of the coaching staff, bringing assurance to Duke’s current roster. His familiarity with the team dynamics proved beneficial, and the Blue Devils realized their aspirations to claim win number four of the conference play without the typical guiding presence of their head coach.
Looking forward, Duke is positioned to continue its ascent within the ACC, even as decision-making, strategy, and execution must adapt without Scheyer when necessary. Time will tell how lasting this experience impacts the Blue Devils moving beyond this season and what adjustments are employed moving forward.