DUKE UPDATES: Newest Duke basketball star player sends a strong message to fans

Sion James is focused on the ultimate goal in Durham next season

What Tulane transfer Sion James brings to Duke basketball

The championship hopes are real for the Duke basketball program, and Sion James, the newest Blue Devil, is not backing down from them.

James wrote on social media shortly after his signing became official that he “can’t wait to head up to Durham and get number 6!!,” referring to the program’s sixth National Championship.

James adds another level of toughness to the group, coming in with a 6-foot-6 build and defensive versatility demonstrated during his four years at Tulane, when he guarded several positions on the court.

During his senior season, he averaged 14.0 points, 5.4 rebounds, 2.7 assists, and 1.2 steals a game while shooting 51.4 percent from the field and 38.1 percent from three.

Jon Scheyer said James’ accession as “not just about adding talent, it’s about adding to a culture of competitiveness and winning attitude that he has.”

Sion James joins Syracuse center Maliq Brown and Purdue forward Mason Gillis in Duke’s transfer class this offseason, which was brought in to supplement the program’s two returning players, Tyrese Proctor and Caleb Foster, as well as the nation’s best freshmen class, headlined by Cooper Flagg.

Duke fans have also made their presence known to James and his family, with about 100 Blue Devil fans donating nearly $4,000 to his charity, the Sion James Foundation, since his commitment to the Blue Devils.

“The foundation supports initiatives that provide for impoverished and homeless youth and adults throughout the country.” According to the website, his current effort will provide shoes, programming, and general aid to New Orleans’ vulnerable neighborhoods.

James stated that he will hold an event in Durham to help his organization this summer, and fans may give here.

 

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *