The Unjustified Snub of Isaiah Evans
Despite a long list of accolades, incoming Duke basketball talent Isaiah Evans has only four stars by his name on one site. It feels like an injustice to exclude him from the five-star group.
The Duke basketball team is looking strong with new recruits.
On3 isn’t as generous as primary competitors 247Sports, Rivals, and ESPN in giving the coveted fifth star to top-tier recruits. Even so, it’s surprising to see Evans, a high-scoring showman whose game resembles that of former Duke one-and-done Brandon Ingram, ranked only four stars.
A Standout Player
The 6-foot-6, 170-pound Evans powered his North Meck (N.C.) team to dramatic upset wins over a pair of seemingly unbeatable opponents en route to a state championship as a senior. His impressive performance earned him a spot in the 2024 McDonald’s All-American Game, alongside fellow Duke recruit Cooper Flagg.
The McDonald’s All-American Game features the best high school basketball players in the country.
Moreover, North Meck just retired his No. 0 jersey, a testament to his outstanding skills on the court.
A Discrepancy in Rankings
Evans is ranked No. 25 overall on On3, 10 spots below his ranking on the 247Sports 2024 Composite. Another heralded 2024 Duke basketball wing addition, Kon Knueppel, is ranked No. 17 on On3, on par with his No. 16 composite position.
Duke basketball recruits are highly touted and expected to make an impact.
Meanwhile, Paul VI Catholic (Va.) center Patrick Ngongba II, also a composite five-star, sits No. 35 overall as a mere On3 four-star; he boasts a No. 26 composite ranking.
A Bright Future Ahead
As Isaiah Evans and his fellow recruits prepare to join Jon Scheyer’s team, Duke basketball fans have a lot to look forward to. With their impressive skills and dedication, these young players are sure to make a significant impact on the court.
The Duke basketball team is poised for success with its new recruits.
