The Duke basketball program has officially signed All-ACC Defender.

Duke basketball still has space on its 2024-25 roster to accommodate up to three additional scholarship players, with the coaching staff expected to secure at least two more through the transfer portal in the coming weeks.

Jon Scheyer, now 36 years old and boasting consecutive 27-9 seasons at the helm following Hall of Famer Mike Krzyzewski’s departure, has already secured commitments from two transfers as he prepares for his third year as head coach. The first to join was Maliq Brown, a former two-year Syracuse forward and reigning ACC All-Defensive Team selection, followed shortly after by Purdue graduate forward Mason Gillis.

While Brown’s commitment has been known for nearly a week, it was officially confirmed on Thursday with a press release and social media content from Duke itself, including Scheyer’s thoughts on the newest addition to the Blue Devils.

Standing at 6 feet 8 inches and weighing 222 pounds, Brown is a formidable presence in the paint, as evidenced by his performance of 26 points against the 2023-24 Duke basketball team at Cameron Indoor Stadium, albeit in a Syracuse loss. Scheyer appears well aware of the impact that the former three-star prospect from Virginia can have on any given night.

“We are delighted to welcome Maliq Brown to our program,” Scheyer commented on the 20-year-old, who recently averaged 9.5 points, 7.2 rebounds, 2.2 steals, and 0.9 blocks per game as a full-time starter for the Orange this past season. “Maliq is a skilled, resilient, and versatile forward who brings a competitive mindset to every game and practice.

“He was one of the most efficient offensive players in the country last year at Syracuse, and also one of the best defenders in the ACC while leading the league in steals. Maliq takes pride in executing all the little things that contribute to winning. As a rising junior and All-ACC defender, Maliq brings a team-first mentality and winning instincts that will enhance our group.”