I learned a great deal as an observer of the game. I saw it from our coaches’ point of view. The first thing I learned is how much planning really goes into each game and how much our coaches break it down. We know everything the other teams want to do. It was amazing how often player tendencies in our scouting preparation would reveal themselves in the game. The game slowed down for me. I started to see things differently. I saw where I could be on the court. I gained a better sense for defensive positioning.

I noticed so much more about how we do things as a program. I watched our managers and the attention to detail they have. I noticed all of the logistics that go into a game. But my biggest observation hit me every time I sat in the chair in front of my locker at home or on the road before a game. The room would be pretty quiet as guys laced up their shoes, stretched and listened to music.

All I could think about it was opportunity. There is endless opportunity when you play basketball at Duke.

Think about a Duke Basketball game. You are representing an incredible university. Playing for the best coach ever. You have terrific fans all over the country and the most unique homecourt in basketball. You have a special brotherhood of past players you have relationships with and want to fight for. You have the best teammates. You play basically all of your games on ESPN networks.

And so going forward, I have two primary thoughts. These thoughts apply to me, my team and our fans too. Anyone who wants to come along for the ride with us!

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