Duke Targeting Top International Guard Prospect
Duke head coach Jon Scheyer and his staff continue to explore the global talent pool, and a new international name has emerged on their radar.
The Blue Devils have already found success recruiting overseas players, recently adding Italian wing Dame Sarr—who previously played for FC Barcelona—and South Sudan’s Khaman Maluach in recent classes. Now, they’re reportedly making a strong push for highly regarded guard Quinn Ellis.
Ellis, a 6-foot-5, 200-pound playmaker from the United Kingdom, currently competes for Olimpia Milano in Italy’s top league and the EuroLeague. The 22-year-old has been playing professionally since 2019 and is averaging 8.1 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 4.1 assists this season.
He has also boosted his profile on the international stage, posting 17.5 points and 7.0 assists per game for Great Britain during World Cup qualifiers. His recent accolades include Italy’s Best Young Player award, as well as MVP honors in both the Italian Cup and Supercup.
While multiple programs—including Kentucky, Louisville, BYU, and Houston—are interested, Duke appears to be gaining momentum as a leading contender should Ellis choose to enter the college ranks.
Potential Backcourt Logjam
Adding Ellis would bring valuable experience to Duke’s 2026–27 roster, but it could also create a crowded situation in the backcourt.
Currently, the Blue Devils’ guard rotation includes Caleb Foster and Cayden Boozer, both of whom are expected to return next season. Foster, in particular, has rebounded from a tough sophomore campaign and is now producing at a high level, making a transfer unlikely.
However, Boozer’s future could become less certain if Ellis joins the program. Complicating matters further, Duke is also set to welcome five-star recruit Deron Rippey Jr., the top-ranked point guard in the 2026 class.
With strong interest in Ellis growing, Duke faces an intriguing decision: adding a proven international guard could elevate the roster—but might also force tough choices within an already competitive guard group.
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