November 7, 2014

ACC

the chronicle

november 7, 2014

BRIANNA SIRACUSE/THE CHRONICLE

BASKETBALL PREVIEW

1,000

$

When Duke wins, you win.

Coming January 2015.

2 | FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014

The Chronicle

www.dukechroniclesports.com

sportsstaff

what’sinside

Editor: Nick Martin Managing Editor: Ryan Hoerger Blog Editor: Amrith Ramkumar Photo Editor: Brianna Siracuse Senior Editors: Daniel Carp, Bobby Colton, Matt Pun Associate Editors: Zac Elder, Delaney King, Vaishnavi Krishnan, Brian Mazur, Ryan Neu, Brian Pollack, Michael Schreiner, Ali Wells Staff Writers: Alex Albert, Ethan Andrzejewski, Olivia Banks, Cassie Calvert, Madeline Carrington, Meredith Cash, Shane Cashin, Philip Coons, Shivam Dave, Jack Dolgin, Taseen Haque, Seth Johnson, Jackson Korman, Scott Lee, Sameer Pandhare, Sammy Solomon, Joe Squillace, Hunter Stark, Jackson Steger, Sam Turken, Jacob Weiss Special thanks to: Photo Editor Darbi Griffith, Towerview Photo Editor Elysia Su, Online Photo Editor Yuyi Li, entire Chronicle Photo Department, Editor-in-Chief Carleigh Stiehm, General Manager Chrissy Beck

Leading the charge

Amile Jefferson and Quinn Cook will lead a young Blue Devil squad this season. PAGE 3 and PAGE 6

New Kid on the Block

Freshman Jahlil Okafor has one word in mind when it comes to describing his rookie year— dominant. PAGE 8

FAB FOUR

Duke brought in the No. 1 recruiting class in 2014 and will now try to translate talent into success. PAGE 9

Need for ‘Sheed

After two up-and-down seasons, Rasheed Sulaimon will look to be a consistent threat for Duke. PAGE 11

Long-range plan With the departure of Andre Dawkins, Rodney Hood and Tyler Thornton, Duke will look to new places for 3-pointers. PAGE 10

Duke Women’s Preview

The No. 7 Blue Devils return threetime All-American Elizabeth Williams and, like their male counterparts, welcome one of the nation’s top recruiting classes. PAGE 17-28

SCORE WITH PAPA JOHN’S! Better Ingredients.

Better Pizza.

We accept Duke Points!

DUKE WINS, YOU WIN! Buy 1 Get 1 FREE after a Duke basketball win Promo code: bluedevils2

919.682.7272 papajohns.com

The Chronicle

www.dukechroniclesports.com

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014 | 3

MEN’S BASKETBALL LEADING THE CHARGE

Jefferson next in long lineage of Duke leaders Amrith Ramkumar Beat Writer Amile Jefferson knows how to make the most out of his opportunities.

Now entering his third season with the Blue Devils, the 6-foot-9, 215-pound forward has never been a focal point of Duke’s game plan—with career averages of just 5.3 points and 5.0 rebounds per game—but has carved out his niche as an essential role player and leader on both ends of the court.

Now a team captain, Jefferson’s maturation process started early in his career.

When Ryan Kelly was injured during Jefferson’s freshman year, the Philadelphia native rose to the occasion, averaging 6.2 points and 4.8 rebounds per game in the 13 contests Kelly missed. But even more valuable than the playing experience were the lessons Jefferson gained from current Brooklyn Nets forward Mason Plumlee, the leader of the 2012-13 squad.

“I got great, great, great learning experience from Mason,” Jefferson said.

“Mason knew how to make guys leap through walls for him, run through walls for him and play their best, and being around him was great to learn how he did that, how he motivated the team [and] how he led by example. Those type of

things are the things I want to emulate as being a leader for this squad.”

During his freshman campaign, the lanky forward established himself as an efficient player around the rim—shooting 54.3 percent from the field during the season—and averaged 4.1 offensive rebounds per 40 minutes played. Jefferson also quickly became a vocal communicator and strong weak-side defender during his freshman year and continued improving last year.

Playing alongside dynamic scorers Jabari Parker and Rodney Hood, Jefferson supplanted senior Josh Hairston in the rotation and averaged 6.5 points and 6.9 rebounds per game, shooting 64.4 percent from the floor and ranking fourth in the ACC with 2.9 offensive rebounds per game.

Now, after working hard in the offseason to get stronger and recover from hip surgery, the junior is poised to have an even stronger season playing alongside another star—6-foot-11 freshman center Jahlil Okafor—and is ready to capitalize on increased opportunities. “[Playing with Jahlil] helps me be able to drive more, hit the glass a little bit and really just play off of him,” Jefferson said.

“Him demanding so much attention is just going to make it easier, not only for me, but for everybody, to move, to hit the glass [and] to get open shots. It’s going

2014-15 Duke University Women’s Basketball Schedule

Jennie Xu | Chronicle File Photo Junior Amile Jefferson averaged 6.5 points and 6.9 rebounds in the 2013-14 campaign and will look to continue to grow as a threat on both ends of the floor for Duke.

to be really fun playing with him. He’s that good and he’s going to demand that much attention.”

Although he is now prepared to take on a bigger workload down low alongside Okafor, Jefferson’s status entering the season was a bit of a question mark due to offseason hip surgery. The surgery was caused by the wear and tear of banging

down low with physical big men that were much stronger than Jefferson, something that happened frequently because of Duke’s lack of size down low.

But thanks to his work in the offseason, the ESPN High School All-American recovered from the procedure, got his See Jefferson on Page 4

Toss it.

Grill it.

Bake it.

LOOP IT!

Home Games Date

Opponent

Time (EST)

Sun, Nov 23

Marquette

2:00 p.m.

Tue, Nov 25

Buffalo

6:30 p.m.

Fri, Nov 28

Stony Brook

6:30 p.m.

Sun, Dec 07

South Carolina

1:00 p.m.

Wed, Dec 17

Oklahoma

6:30 p.m.

Fri, Dec 19

UMass Lowell

6:30 p.m.

Sun, Dec 21

Kentucky

3:00 p.m.

Catering available!

Perfect for Holiday Parties!

West Campus in the Bryan Center

Duke Students get in FREE for all home games

GoDuke.com

LoopPizzaGrill.com

Delivery on Points 8:30pm-12am 919-660-8888

The Chronicle

www.dukechroniclesports.com

4 | FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014

JEFFERSON continued from page 5

explosion back and now looks better than ever to his coaching staff.

“He’s looking very, very good,” assistant coach Jon Scheyer said. “Amile has come along very fast, and it’s been impressive. The biggest thing has been just regaining the strength back in his legs, and that’s something he’s been working on all the time with our trainers and strength coach. The more you play, the more the timing and stuff [come back], but this guy looks like he hasn’t taken any time off. It’s incredible.”

Jefferson will have a chance to show off his skills on the offensive end, but his role on the team this year will extend well beyond the box score. Jefferson took a leadership role during the summer when head coach Mike Krzyzewski was coaching Team USA in the FIBA World Cup, becoming the extension of the coaching staff that every team needs on the court.

Even when he was not participating in workouts and drills while recove ring from surgery, Jefferson used one of his best attributes—his people skills—to still make a dramatic impact on the freshmenladen squad.

“Amile is really respected by everyone on this team, and he’s worked his butt off,” Scheyer said. “He has unbelievable instincts, his instincts for people and for what Coach wants have been really great.

As a junior, it’s a really big honor to be a captain, but he really deserves it.”

Now that he’s handling a full load on the court as well, Jefferson’s communication— especially on the defensive end—will only

Voted #1 best place to live off campus!

Austin Peer | Chronicle File Photo Amile Jefferson established himself as a vocal leader on last year’s squad, and will need to supplement his leadership with an increase in defensive production if the Blue Devils hope to have sustained success, according to head coach Mike Krzyzewski.

become more meaningful. Communication was one of the main problems the Blue Devils faced defensively last year, when they surrendered 67.4 points per game—placing them 104th among Division I teams—and allowed opponents to shoot 45.6 percent from the field.

But although the coaches want Jefferson to make a concerted effort to keep up the constant chatter, they also want to see him step up his own performance on the defensive end and lead by example with his stronger frame.

T riniTy Commons AT ERWIN

“Amile is a great communicator,” Krzyzewski said. “[But the adage is] ‘Do what I say, do what I do.’ He has to do what he’s saying he wants other people to do, in other words, be a defender and a communicator. Don’t just be a communicator and your defense isn’t real good. Even though he’s stronger, he’s going to have to cover some big guys. He’s our best talker right now, no question.”

Jefferson understands the pressure that comes with being a team captain and knows he must perform well for the Blue Devils to reach

their goals this season. But when asked what most excites him about this year, the animated junior focused on the same things that earned him his role as leader—his teammates, and how his role fits into the bigger picture.

“I get a chance to be a leader,” Jefferson said. “I get a chance with Quinn, with Marshall, to lead this group and to see how good we can actually be. That’s our goal—to test our limits. We know we’re going to be good, but we want to be that good [and reach our potential].”

Your Lifetime Relationship with Duke

student

avg. = 4.2 years

L U X U RY A PA RT M E N T S N E X T T O D U K E M E D I C A L C E N T E R

Apartment Amenities 3,000 Square Foot Fitness Center with Yoga Room Indoor Steam Room and Sauna 24 Hour Business Center Indoor Resistance Pool Outdoor Pool (Open Year Round) Billiards Room Clubhouse with Demonstration Kitchen On-Site Security Team Outdoor Covered Grilling Area Dog Park

alum

avg. = 62.8 years

BE FOREVER DUKE Forever Duke Block Party • Homecoming • Commencement celebrations Networking • Mentoring • Send-off Parties • DEMAN Weekend Life 101: Preparing for Life After Duke FOLLOW US: @DukeAlumni

2530 Erwin Road, Durham, NC 27705 919.309.1409 • www.trinitycommons.com

COME SEE US: Forlines House, 614 Chapel Drive VISIT US: www.DukeAlumni.com

The Chronicle

Try o ur $5 Exterior Was

www.dukechroniclesports.com

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014 | 5

No Excuses!

You can afford to keep your car

Ritz Clean from $

5

Exterior Wash to $

219

Complete Interior & Exterior Detail

Mon.-Sat. 8am - 7pm | Sun. 11am - 5pm 3639 Durham-Chapel Hill Blvd.

Durham, NC 27707 www.durhamritz.com 919.490.6868

The Chronicle

www.dukechroniclesports.com

6 | FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014

MEN’S BASKETBALL SENIOR LEADERSHIP

The Quinn-tessential Leader

In his final season, senior Quinn Cook will lead Duke’s drive for an elusive banner Bobby Colton Beat Writer Duke has seen many sides of point guard Quinn Cook through the years, from fiery freshmen to dejected junior.

But this year, the Blue Devils will rely on a new mentality from the team’s lone senior: Captain Cook.

“It’s a blessing,” Cook said of his title.

“That’s the first word that comes to my mind. It’s an honor. All the great players and people who were blessed with the opportunity to be a captain of the team.

It’s exciting, because you’re known by your leadership, and great teams aren’t good without leaders.”

From Nolan Smith to Tyler Thornton, Cook has revered the Duke captains he’s come into contact with since becoming a part of the program. Before his sophomore season even began, the confident Cook revealed that he was ready to be a leader for his teammates, but the guard suffered a setback on his quest for captaincy last season when Rodney Hood and Josh Hairston were given the honor and Cook was left out.

So, Cook refocused his energy this

Kevin Shamieh | Chronicle File Photo Senior Quinn Cook was named as a captain of the 2014-15 squad and has set his sights on bringing along the talented freshman class in order to hang a banner in Cameron at season’s end.

summer in order to join the ranks of Blue Devil captains. Cook stayed in Durham for both summer sessions, working on his shooting, eating right, putting on more muscle and increasing his speed and vertical jump. In short, he did everything the coaching staff asked of him and more after last season’s

Pomodoro

Italian Kitchen L

puttin en h c t i k g the love back into the

Fresh Cuisine

for the Family 10% off with Duke ID Mon thru Sat 11am-11pm Sunday 12pm-9:30pm

919-382-2915 1811 Hillandale Rd. Durham, NC 27705

disappointing finish.

The most important part of Cook’s captaincy will be his ability to integrate a highly-touted crop of freshmen into the fold. Duke’s No. 1-ranked recruiting class—Jahlil Okafor, Tyus Jones, Justise Winslow and Grayson Allen—has the talent to immediately contribute for the

Blue Devils, but needs to be shown the ropes first.

And that’s where Cook comes in.

“I know for me, when I first got down, every day after a workout or even on an off day [Cook] would call me in to do some extra running and things like that,” Okafor said. “A couple nights, late [at] night we went up to the K Center and did some pick and roll stuff and things like that, just me and him oneon-one.”

Although coaching up a rising star at a different position like Okafor may be easy for Cook, the harder task could have been accepting Jones, the top-rated point guard in the Class of 2014. As the incumbent starter, Cook could have taken a disliking to Jones. Instead, the two have bonded like brothers.

“Everybody on Twitter or Instagram wanted to make it a competition,” Cook said. “We knew that coming into the situation, so that kind of brings people closer together; when his name is always mentioned with my name and things like that. We looked at it totally the opposite—we want to play together.

I want to help him; I didn’t come into the situation thinking ‘Oh no, this point guard’s coming into the picture, I’m in trouble’. It was ‘This is the top point guard coming in; how can he help my game, and how can I help his game?’”

The Chronicle

www.dukechroniclesports.com

What can make a player be so willing to accept the new guy poised to take his job? The answer is simple— the prospect of winning a title. Cook came onto campus as part of a five-person recruiting class, but will be leaving by himself. Austin Rivers made the leap to the NBA after one season in Durham, Marshall Plumlee redshirted his freshman year and will presumably be back with the team next season, and both Michael Gbinije and Alex Murphy transferred to Syracuse and Florida, respectively.

Despite some strong showings—his Battle 4 Atlantis MVP trophy stands out most prominently—Cook’s Duke career has been defined by inconsistency. Instead of another roller-coaster season, Cook hopes his Duke legacy will ultimately be a championship. Associate head coach Jeff Capel made sure Cook knew during the summer that he still had something left to prove in his final year in Durham.

“If you go out in that gym, if you go out in Cameron, the only banners that hang are championship banners,” Capel said. “Whether that’s ACC, regular season or tournament or getting to a Final Four. Quinn doesn’t have one, and that’s what he needs to do. That’s how you’re remembered here.”

And so here stands Captain Cook, poised to begin his last season in Durham, doing whatever it takes to bring a title to Duke. As Cook himself astutely pointed out, the two-point-guard lineup has worked well in the recent past with Kemba Walker and Shabazz Napier, Napier and Ryan Boatright, Peyton Siva and Russ Smith, and, of course, Nolan Smith and Jon Scheyer.

Regardless of whether he starts or comes off the bench, the refocused Cook will be ready to rise to the occasion.

And cement his legacy with a banner.

Follow

The Chronicle

Eric Lin | Chronicle File Photo Duke point guard Quinn Cook has established himself as a mentor to the Blue Devil freshmen, namely fellow point guard Tyus Jones.

Now Open!

Leasing Studio, One, Two & Three Bedroom Apartments

@ChronicleSports @DukeBasketball

AUTHENTIC THAI CUISINE

“Best Thai food in Durham. I love their Pad Thai and Tom Yum soup.

Price is reasonable and parking is easy.” ~ Pureum K. Durham, NC

Thai Cafe Durham 2501 University Dr. 919.493.9794

Thai Cafe Wake Forest 3309 Rogers Rd. 919.453.1679

Dine In & Take Out ~

Monday thru Thursday: 11:30 am - 3 pm & 5 - 10 pm Friday: 11:30 am - 3 pm & 5 - 11 pm Saturday: Noon - 11 pm • Sunday: Noon - 10 pm

www.thaicafenc.com

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014 | 7

1-877-237-6540 749 Ninth Street, Durham, NC 27705

crescentninthstreet.com

8 | FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014

www.dukechroniclesports.com

NEW KID ON THE BLOCK Ryan Hoerger Beat Writer Dominant.

That’s the adjective players and coaches alike have used to describe Jahlil Okafor. For the freshman center, living up to that billing is one of three items on his season checklist. “[The] team goal is definitely a national championship and an ACC championship,” Okafor said. “[Individually, my goal is] being the most dominant player in college basketball.”

Showered with preseason accolades— AP Player of the Year, AP First Team AllAmerican, ACC Rookie of the Year, first team All-ACC to name a few—the hype surrounding the nation’s top-ranked recruit has only continued to grow as the regular season draws nearer.

Jabari Parker and Rodney Hood, the engines that made last year’s team go, could take over games, but needed the ball in their hands to do so. Okafor—a post-up threat that the Blue Devils lacked a season ago— can influence a game without having to create his own shot.

“There are not many guys like him, when you put together the size, the skill set, the agility,” associate head coach Jeff Capel said.

“He has a chance to be dominant. And we need him to be dominant.”

Okafor enters the season with a dangerous arsenal of post moves and incredibly nimble footwork for someone of his size and age.

After some prompting from senior captain Quinn Cook, he’s taken on a more vocal role, particularly on the defensive end.

Because of the multitude of ways Okafor can score—a reliable bank shot, a baby hook and a flurry of back-to-the-basket moves— and his defensive presence, Cook compared him to one of his former teammates.

“He reminds me of Mason [Plumlee] just by his presence and dominance on the court. Mason was always talking on defense, altering shots, not just scoring, all the little things,” Cook said. “That’s what [Okafor] has already at a young age. When he gets the ball, he’s probably the most talented player in the country.”

Capel has coached two assertive big men in Plumlee and former Oklahoma forward Blake Griffin, and although Okafor doesn’t pattern his game after either player, he said Capel gives him the same message he gave them: Dominate.

To do that, he’ll still need to get acclimated to the bruising nature of life as a college center, something head coach Mike Krzyzewski said will take time.

“As a big guy, it’s really hard to adjust from high school to college because if [Okafor] was physical in high school, he

would foul out of every game,” Krzyzewski said. “A big guy has to learn [that] you can be really physical [at this level].... Playing against Marshall [Plumlee] helps, but we’re going to have to play games.”

An overlooked aspect of the Chicago native’s game is his unselfishness. Classmate Tyus Jones has drawn widespread praise for his court vision, but Okafor is a willing passer, a skill he said he developed in high school as he ran into consistent double- and triple-teams.

College defenses will undoubtedly collapse to help guard the 6-foot-11 big man as well, meaning Okafor’s teammates will reap the rewards of less attention out on the perimeter.

“You talk about him coming in and he’s the best player in the country, but he’s also one of the best passers out of the post that I’ve ever seen,” freshman Grayson Allen said. “That just really helps the flow and the chemistry, and the more we play with each other, the more we know where each other [are] going to be.”

On the defensive end, Okafor should help shore up a Blue Devil defense that lacked a rim protector late in games last season. Five of Duke’s nine losses last year were second-half collapses caused by cold perimeter shooting and porous defense. With Okafor commanding the paint, the Blue Devils will be able to both pound the ball inside for high-percentage shots on offense and force opponents to beat them from the outside on defense .

His size alone may be a deterrent for ballhandlers entering the paint, but Okafor has been hard at work during the preseason working on improving his positioning to defend the post and communicating on defense. It’s here that working against Plumlee every day in practice will help the freshman most.

“In high school I never had anyone my size to come in and play against—ever,” Okafor said.

“In high school I rarely had to defend the post, because everyone was so much smaller than I was, so [I’m working on] little techniques.... In high school I didn’t have to talk as much, I just relied on being big and able to get to certain positions. Here I have to be vocal, always communicating with my teammates.”

Okafor’s impact defensively is not limited to his command of the paint. Cook said the security provided by the freshman as the final line of defense will enable the Blue Devil guards to apply more pressure on the ball and be more aggressive in jumping into passing lanes.

Surrounded by high-level talent, a dominant Okafor would put himself—and the Blue Devils—in good shape to revisit his other goals for the season. The postseason awards may come, but they’re not what really matters to the freshman.

“When I chose Duke University, it was so that I could accomplish a goal that I had in mind, and that’s winning a national championship,” Okafor said.

The Chronicle

FOUR EQU

The Chronicle

www.dukechroniclesports.com

UALS FIVE?

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014 | 9

A CLASS OF THEIR OWN Daniel Carp Beat Writer By basketball standards, Jahlil Okafor had seen everything a player could by the time he was a high school senior.

He was the consensus No. 1 player in the Class of 2014 and the presumed No. 1 pick in the 2015 NBA draft. He was an AllAmerican and a three-time gold medalist internationally. His basketball honors were only outnumbered by his Division I scholarship offers—the first of which he received when he was in eighth grade.

The soft-spoken big man had handled all of the hype with the same calm and poise he displayed on the hardwood. But on the morning of Nov. 15, 2013, the day he and point guard Tyus Jones announced their decision to play together at Duke, Okafor experienced something he rarely felt—anxiety.

He and Jones committed together on national television. Okafor sat in front of his entire school at Whitney M. Young Magnet High School in Chicago. And despite the nerves, the event represented the end of a recruiting process that had spanned back more than four years.

When the word “Duke” exited Okafor’s mouth, he could finally breathe a sigh of relief. Quickly, anxiety evaporated into pride. The center donned a blue Duke hat, and was so excited he couldn’t take it off.

“I was so happy,” Okafor said. “I wore my Duke hat that I committed on ESPN—for like a month or two, I wore it every day.”

By committing to head coach Mike Krzyzewski, Okafor, ranked No. 1 in his class by ESPN, and Jones, ranked fourth, joined shooting guard Grayson Allen as the next crop of future Blue Devils. Allen, ranked 21st in his class by ESPN, had pledged to Duke all the way back in April 2013.

Six days after Okafor and Jones committed, Duke added small forward Justise Winslow—ranked No. 15 in his class by ESPN—to its already-loaded class, which is among the best crop of freshmen Krzyzewski has ever brought to the Blue Devils during his 35-year tenure in Durham.

“This freshman class is just ahead maturity-wise,” Krzyzewski said at his first press conference of the season. “The freshmen aren’t freshmen—they’re Duke basketball players. There’s not that differentiation. That doesn’t happen all the time, that doesn’t happen most of the time. But with this group, it has and we

saw that during the summer.”

Senior guard Quinn Cook didn’t have time to take notice as Duke’s freshman class came together at breakneck speed last November. He and the Blue Devil coaching staff were just days into the 2013-14 season and concentrating on integrating newcomers Jabari Parker and Rodney Hood into Duke’s system.

It was not until after the campaign met a premature end in the NCAA tournament that Cook was able to realize that the freshman class he was inheriting was a point guard’s dream.

“All four of them are special,” Cook said.

“In the summer, after the season was over, when I finally saw those guys come here—I was so excited. I knew that we could do some special things.”

There won’t be much time for a learning curve when Duke opens its season against Presbyterian Nov. 14—this year’s freshman class is simply too talented not to play a pivotal role in the Blue Devil rotation.

Jones, Okafor and Winslow are expected to be in the team’s starting lineup come opening day, and Allen should be in line to see serious minutes off the bench.

Of course, Krzyzewski knows that makeng a deep tournament run with a lineup that will often feature multiple firstyear players won’t happen overnight.

“We’re not going to be perfect,” Krzyzewski said. “They have a lot to learn about the game. They’ve all been well-coached, though. That helps tremendously.”

In case there wasn’t enough pressure being the most heralded freshman class in recent memory for a program that brings in the nation’s top talent every year, Duke’s Fab Four will be tasked with rewriting the team’s recent March disappointments.

Three of Duke’s last four teams have been headlined by high-profile freshmen— Kyrie Irving in 2010-11, Austin Rivers in 2011-12 and Jabari Parker in 2013-14. Those three teams won a combined two NCAA tournament games and were bounced in the opening round twice by teams seeded 14th or lower. The 2012-13 Blue Devils— who were led by seniors Mason Plumlee, Ryan Kelly and Seth Curry—reached the Elite Eight.

History doesn’t faze Okafor—even before he plays his first regular season game for Duke, he knows what the program’s appropriate expectations are.

“Our goal is to win a national championship,” Okafor said. “That’s why we came here. We thought that was our best opportunity just for us to win a championship. With the guys already here, I think we have a great shot.”

The Chronicle

www.dukechroniclesports.com

10 | FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014

COLUMN

Long-range plan It’s no secret that the Duke offense will look different this season than it has the past few seasons. The addition of arguably the nation’s top interior scorer will have that effect. For years, the public opinion of Duke’s offense is that the Blue Devils are dependent on the 3-ball, which has led to early questions about who can be the shooters on this year’s team.

So who is going to rise to the occasion this season? Last year Duke was 15th in Division I basketball with a 39.5 percent clip from beyond the arc. However, the team’s top three shooters from a season ago—Tyler Thornton, Andre Dawkins and Rodney Hood—have all moved on.

The easy answers are Rasheed Sulaimon and Quinn Cook.

The veteran guards have both been lights-out shooters from behind the arc in the past. Sulaimon shot 37.1 percent as a freshman and upped that figure to 41.0 percent last season despite an up-and-down year. Cook couldn’t find a rhythm his freshman year with erratic playing time, but shot 39.3 percent as a starter sophomore year and managed a 37.1 percent clip despite a rough season as a junior.

However, both veterans are slated to come off the bench this year—which begs the question, who can knock down the 3-pointer in the first unit?

In a perfect world, that guy is Matt Jones. The sophomore from DeSoto, Texas arrived on campus last year amid rumblings that he was the next great 3-point shooter to come through Duke, joining the ranks of J.J. Redick, Kyle Singler, Seth Curry, Dawkins and so many more.

He then proceeded to make just three of his 21 attempts from beyond the arc, displaying a flat jumper and waning confidence.

This year, Jones seems to have his swagger back a little bit, leaving hope that he can be the floor spacer many envisioned him being.

In his first action of the new season, Jones inspired confidence in fans and coaches alike by starting the game 4-of-4 from behind the arc in an exhibition against Livingstone.

That being said, if Jones resembles his freshman self, then the options are down to Tyus Jones and Justise Winslow for the starting unit. Although the younger Jones has had occasional success with the triple before coming to Duke, the knock on him was that he needed to improve his outside shot. The same can be said of Winslow, who was billed as college-ready defensively, but with a hole in his jumper.

Further hampering the freshmen’s ability to perform from long range is the fact that freshmen in general haven’t shot all that well at Duke. Shane Battier is fourth all-time at Duke in 3-point percentage and he hit only 16.7 percent of his triples as a freshman. Greg Paulus is ninth on that list and he connected on only 31.4 percent of his 3-pointers his first season. Singler shot just 34.0 percent his freshman year, Jon Scheyer was at 36.5 percent, Mike Dunleavy 35.1 percent and Ryan Kelly just 26.3 percent. And those are just some of the iconic Duke 3-point artists in recent memory.

But does any of this matter, or are concerns about shooting overblown? In only 10 of the last 17 seasons have the Blue Devils finished in the top 50 in 3-point percentage as a team. Just two Duke teams during that stretch failed to produce a 40-percent shooter, but that role can be filled by either Sulaimon or Cook, who have either already reached that mark in their career or came close to doing so.

What works to the advantage of this team is AP Preseason Player of the Year Jahlil Okafor, an imposing 6-foot-11, 270-pound behemoth in the paint.

The reality of the situation is that Duke hasn’t had a player of Okafor’s gravity in the post since the days of Shelden Williams.

Of course, Williams had a dead-eye shooter in Redick to play with, but the fact remains that he was a force to be reckoned with every time he touched the basketball. As good as Mason Plumlee was during his time in Durham, he didn’t command the respect that Okafor will.

And therefore, the 3-ball will not be the key to Duke’s season as it has been in the past. The myth that Duke needs a team full of shooters is no more than a recency bias, when spectators were treated to bigs like Kelly and Jabari Parker who could step back and drill the deep shot. The Blue Devils’ bread and butter will be with Okafor in the paint, showing off his vast array of post moves.

And when the double- and triple-teams come, the rest will figure itself out.

Bobby Colton

Austin Peer | Chronicle File Photo Senior Quinn Cook will be one of the returning players that the Blue Devils will need to step up from behind the arc this season.

We accept

DELIVERY on campus 11 am - Midnight

duke points SPECIALTY

PIZZAS WRAPS SALADS SUBS

309.3696

order online: enzopizzaco.com

2608 erwin rd.

We would love to cater your NEXT business or festive occASION

The Chronicle

www.dukechroniclesports.com

MEN’S BASKETBALL

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014 | 11

CONSISTENCY

Need for ‘Sheed The Blue Devils’ most polarizing player, Rasheed Sulaimon, is in the best shape of his life and ready to step up for Duke Daniel Carp Beat Writer Will the real Rasheed Sulaimon please stand up?

During his freshman campaign, the 6-foot-4 guard was nothing short of explosive, starting 33 of 36 games for the Blue Devils and averaging 11.6 points per contest. A relentless slasher and tenacious on-ball defender, Sulaimon established himself as a major threat on both ends of the floor. After going overseas and winning a gold medal for the United States at the FIBA U19 World Championships, Sulaimon appeared poised for a breakout campaign as a sophomore and was expected to be the third piece of a deadly Duke perimeter trio with forwards Jabari Parker and Rodney Hood.

But when he arrived back to Durham, something wasn’t clicking. Sulaimon was held out of Duke’s starting lineup on opening day and struggled to find a rhythm. His minutes began to evaporate until Sulaimon did not even set foot on the court in the Blue Devils’ Dec. 3 victory against Michigan.

In fleeting moments, Sulaimon looked like the version of himself that earned ACC All-Freshman honors in 2012-13. He came off the bench and torched eventual conference champion Virginia to the tune of 21 points—including the go-ahead 3-pointer with 18.8 seconds to go. With Parker and Hood struggling in Duke’s first NCAA tournament game against Mercer, Sulaimon poured in 20 points and nearly singlehandedly led the Blue Devils to a comeback victory against the upset-minded Bears.

As Duke gets set to kick off its 2014-15 campaign, the biggest question mark on a team highlighted by four stud freshmen could be an upperclassmen who has played a convincing game of Jekyll and Hyde for his first two collegiate seasons.

Heading into his junior season, Sulaimon did not shy away from what held him back a year ago—his fitness. “[Last year] I didn’t take care of my body like I should have,” he said. “This year, I’m a year older and I know that was a point of emphasis for me, so it was one of my weaknesses. I can now say that I think—I’m pretty sure that—I’m in amazing shape right now.”

If Sulaimon’s recommitment to conditioning pays off, his roller-coaster sophomore season could drift into distant memory. But even as a freshman, Sulaimon was one of Duke’s streakiest players—he had a knack See ‘Sheed on Page 12

FISHMONGER’S Restaurant, Crab House & Oyster Bar since 1983

Oysters $12/Dozen Friday 2-6pm Follow us on Twitter @Fishmongers_Dur 806 W. Main Street • Durham (across from Brightleaf Square) Open 7 days a week serving Lunch and Dinner

682-0128 • www.fishmongers.net

Elysia Su | Chronicle File Photo After two up-and-down seasons at Duke, junior Rasheed Sulaimon will be shooting for consistency and playing time this season.

Duke They’re your dining points.

Give them extra f lavor.

4-diamond dining, golf-view terrace, saturday & sunday brunch

bountiful breakfast buffet, monday–saturday 7-10:30 am, sunday 7-10:00 am

lively atmosphere, delicious menu, all your favorite beverages

light fare & beverages, overlooking the course, golfers & non-golfers welcome

Students always welcome • Dining Plan Points accepted • Reservations recommended for Fairview • Follow us on Facebook and Twitter

Publication: Chronicle Size: 6.625” x 5.125” Job Number: 864-4012 Run Date: September 2, 2014 Dana Communications 609.466.9187

‘SHEED

continued from page 11 for going scoreless in one half and piling on double figures in the next.

“He’s really talented, and he’s had some really good moments, I think he just needs to string it together,” assistant coach Jon Scheyer said. “Consistency is the key for him and he knows that, and he’ll have opportunities, of course.

That’s the biggest thing, consistently working hard in practice and preparing for games and doing it on the floor.”

With a talented crop of freshmen expected to play major roles for Duke this season and the maturation of shooting guard Matt Jones, Sulaimon

The Chronicle

www.dukechroniclesports.com

12 | FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014

will likely not be a part of the team’s starting lineup to begin the campaign.

Rather, the Houston native will be the Blue Devils’ most explosive option off the bench.

Playing sixth man could actually maximize Sulaimon’s potential, giving him the chance to score in bunches and take advantage of tired legs. In 17 games Sulaimon started during the 2013-14 campaign, he averaged 8.9 points. He averaged 10.9 points in his 17 games coming off the bench.

“Rasheed is in a real good place.

At times, as you’re growing as a young player, you try to see yourself in only one role and you don’t see yourself in the most productive role,” head coach Mike Krzyzewski said. “Right now, he

sees himself in what would be his most productive role. He’s our best onball defender. At [6-foot-4], he’s an outstanding athlete. That’s what he does the best.”

A more mature, levelheaded Sulaimon could be a major weapon for the Blue Devils, whether in the starting lineup or as the team’s sixth man. The junior said the only role that is important to him is that of a leader on a team with just one senior.

“It’s going to be my third year now, and I think to help the younger guys come along quicker, I have to be the guy to put the hand on their shoulder when they’re done, or pick them up,” Sulaimon said. “Whatever this team needs from me.”

Kevin Shamieh | Chronicle File Photo Rasheed Sulaimon will provide Duke with an offensive boost off the bench as the sixth-man.

Come home to welcoming friends Energy efficient garden apartments in a natural setting

One Bedroom starting at $600 Two Bedrooms starting at $700 Three Bedrooms starting at $800

1/2 Off

Summer Months

June, July, August

1321 New Castle Road

Minutes from Duke off Guess Road

471.8474

HOME TOWN HERO!

Austin Peer | Chronicle File Photo Junior Rasheed Sulaimon will join Amile Jefferson and Quinn Cook as the veteran leaders this year.

Menu Sampling

Old School Veggie Burrito Regular Chicken Burrito Cheese Quesadilla Chicken Quesadilla Veggie Nachos Chips & Salsa

$2.86 $5.65 $1.41 $3.59 $4.12 $2.06

1920 1/2 Perry St. at Ninth Street Just a block from East Campus Now served at JB’s hot dog stand.

The Chronicle

www.dukechroniclesports.com

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014 | 13

sign up.

Be the first to know about new arrivals, special collections, the latest in technology, sales events, textbook buyback and more.

For more information, visit our website at www.dukestores.duke.edu and click on the BTFTK icon on the left.

Our Privacy Policy: We respect your right to personal privacy. We promise to use this subscription service for the express purpose of keeping you informed of only those services that you have requested. Your personal information will not be disclosed to any third parties. We hope you will find our e-mails of benefit. We promise to keep them informative and to-the-point. You will have the option of unsubscribing from this service with each e-mail campaign.

14 | FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014

www.dukechroniclesports.com

NORTH CAROLINA

The Chronicle

LOUISVILLE

Led by point guard and Preseason All-American Marcus Behind the play of junior Montrezl Harrell, the Cardinals will Paige, the Tar Heels will be Duke’s No. 1 contender in the ACC look to make the most of their first year in the ACC.

Overall Record: 24-10, 13-5 in the ACC Head coach: Roy Williams Tenure at North Carolina: 12th season Career coaching record: 724-190 Home court: Dean Smith Center Starters: F Kennedy Meeks, F Brice Johnson, F J.P. Tokoto, G Justin Jackson, G Marcus Paige Save the date: Feb. 18, @ March 7 If the Tar Heels can survive the program’s current off-the-court academic scandal, they should be in good shape to make a deep postseason run. North Carolina opens at No. 6 in the AP Poll, and will instantly be in the race for the ACC title. The Tar Heels return three starters, as well as four of their top six leading scorers, and will hope to improve on last year’s third-place finish in the country’s most top-heavy conference.

Marcus Paige

North Carolina returns leading scorer and ACC Preseason Player of the Year Marcus Paige, who averaged 17.5 points per game last season on 44 percent field goal shooting. If the junior can maintain this production while getting his teammates involved more efficiently than he has in the past, Roy Williams’ typically high-scoring offense will be very difficult to stop.

—Jackson Steger

Overall Record: 31-6, 15-3 in the AAC Head coach: Rick Pitino Tenure at Louisville: 14th season Career coaching record: 695-245 Home court: KFC Yum! Center Starters: C Mongok Mathiang, F Montrezl Harrell, G/F Wayne Blackshear, G Terry Rozier, G Chris Jones Save the date: @ Jan. 17 The preseason-No. 8 Cardinals have a lot to prove if they want to live up to such a high ranking in their first season in the ACC. After losing a combined 30.5 points per game from senior guard Russ Smith and senior forward Luke Hancock, Louisville may struggle to find production early. However, that does not mean the Cardinals should be taken lightly.

Montrezl Harrell

Junior Montrezl Harrell is a frontcourt beast, and was named a preseason All-American.

After averaging 14.0 points and 8.4 rebounds per game last season, Harrell now has more room to operate with Hancock’s departure.

Rumors that he may have developed decent range on his jump shot over the offseason make him a viable offensive threat and a darkhorse candidate for ACC Player of the Year.

—Jackson Steger

The Chronicle

www.dukechroniclesports.com

VIRGINIA

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014 | 15

SYRACUSE

Despite losing Joe Harris and Akil Mitchell to the NBA, the The Orange will turn to their returning upperclassmen to reigning ACC champs will not be sneaking up on anyone. lead them to their first ACC regular season title.

Overall Record: 30-7, 16-2 ACC Head coach: Tony Bennett Tenure at Virginia: 6th season Career coaching record: 175-93 Home court: John Paul Jones Arena Starters: C Mike Tobey, F Anthony Gill, F Justin Anderson, G Malcom Brogdon, G London Perrantes Save the date: @Jan. 31 After last season’s magical ACC title and Elite Eight run, the Cavaliers were ranked No. 9 in the Preseason AP Poll, but living up to heightened expectations won’t be easy. In the offseason, Virginia lost its two highest scorers to the NBA—sharpshooter Joe Harris to the Cleveland Cavaliers and big man Akil Mitchell, who is in the D-League.

Overall Record: 28-6, 14-4 in the ACC Head coach: Jim Boeheim Tenure at Syracuse: 39th season Career coaching record: 948-319 Home court: Carrier Dome Starters: C Rakeem Christmas, F Chris McCullough, F Tyler Roberson, G Trevor Cooney, G Kaleb Joseph Save the date: @ Feb. 14, Feb. 28

Malcolm Brogdon

But the Cavaliers were able to retain the services of All-ACC performer Malcolm Brogdon. He was a cornerstone of the team on both ends of the court, averaging 12.7 points per game and 5.4 rebounds last season. With Harris gone after leading the team the past two seasons, Brogdon has a chance to show he is one of the best players in the country and have a breakout year.

—Taseen Haque

Something for Everyone 1, 2, & 3 Bedroom Spacious apartments •••• On duke bus line ••••

poplarmanorapartments.com

Less than 1 mile to Duke’s West Campus and Medical Center

Poplar Manor

hollyhillapartmenthomes.com

Pet Friendly •••• Laundry Facilities ••••

Holly Hill

•••• Water furnished

erwinterraceapartments.com

Lease: 6 or 12 months

2716-D Campus Walk Ave. Durham, 27705

Erwin Terrace Hours: Mon-Fri 9-5

919.383.3830

The Orange find themselves in a major rebuilding year—having lost senior forward and leading scorer C.J. Fair, second-round NBA draft pick Jerami Grant and first-round NBA draft pick Tyler Ennis. The talent turnover is nothing new to Boeheim, but this could be one of his toughest years yet. Syracuse starts the season ranked No. 23 in the country after spending the first 18 weeks of last season in the top 10 of the AP Poll.

Trevor Cooney

Returning starters center Rakeem Christmas and shooting guard Trevor Cooney will need to step up for a young team that needs to find its identity. Christmas will direct traffic on defense and has to keep the unit running effectively. Cooney is a streaky shooter who must create more on offense and maintain a steady stream of jumpshooting throughout the season.

—Scott Lee

Watch the Big Game in Comfort and Style

16 | FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014

www.dukechroniclesports.com

The Perfect Gift Duke University Stores Gift Cards are the perfect gift for any occasion, and are redeemable at any Duke Stores location.

Choose from 4 designs Available in any denomination

Shop with us 24/7/365 via our online catalog at

www.shopdukestores.duke.edu

The Chronicle

the chronicle

ACC

november 7, 2014

BRIANNA SIRACUSE/THE CHRONICLE

BASKETBALL PREVIEW

18 | FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014

The Chronicle

www.dukechroniclesports.com

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL DUKE’S DYNAMIC GUARDS

CHANGING OF THE GUARDS

After losing Chelsea Gray and Alexis Jones, Duke will now turn to a new crop of guards Sameer Pandhare Beat Writer Duke knows the importance of strong point guard play. After all, it was seasonending injuries to point guards Chelsea Gray and Alexis Jones injury that dashed the Blue Devils’ national title aspirations a year ago.

Just one year later, Duke finds itself in the same position—without Gray, now in the WNBA, and Jones, who transferred to Baylor following her ACL injury. But these Blue Devils are confident that a replacement for the former top-tier point guards lies on this year’s highlytouted roster.

“There’ll be different people at the point guard spot, no doubt,” head coach Joanne P. McCallie said. “Every one of them brings a different skill set to the point guard position.”

To once again contend for a national championship, Duke will need its floor generals to accomplish three main goals: feed All-American center Elizabeth Williams on offense, provide heavy on-ball pressure on

defense and shoot consistently from the perimeter.

Luckily, the Blue Devils’ point guard platoon is composed of three players who promise to do just that.

Duke’s incumbent starter at the point guard position will be senior Ka’lia Johnson, who moved into the starting lineup to fill the void left by Jones during the ACC and NCAA tournaments last season. Johnson, a versatile guard who often played at the two and three positions last season, is best known for her high-energy plays and fearless mentality that provided a much-needed spark off the bench for the Blue Devils in years past.

Making the transition to point guard presents a new challenge for the Chester, Va., native, who used the offseason to get acclimated to the increased responsibilities she will hold this year.

“I think the main adjustment is that I’ll need to be in better shape,” Johnson said. “I worked on a lot of ball-handling and coming off screens and just knowing where my teammates like the ball....

I’m getting used to bringing the ball up the court and having the ball more than in the past.”

Perhaps the biggest benefit for

2014 WAREHOUSE

SALE

Emily Waples | The Chronicle Redshirt freshman Rebecca Greenwell will be one of several options the Blue Devils will have to run the point for them in the upcoming season.

Johnson coming into the season will be the extensive action she received after Jones’ injury. After only averaging 10.7 minutes per contest for the majority of the season, the point guard averaged 29.4 minutes per game in her five games as a starter. The key to Johnson’s success will undeniably be her ability to take care of the basketball. In her five games as the starting point guard, Johnson averaged two turnovers in Duke victories

as opposed to 5.5 giveaways averaged in postseason losses to Notre Dame and DePaul.

Johnson will not be forced to carry the load alone. Late in the recruiting process, the Blue Devils uncovered a hidden gem in junior college transfer Mercedes Riggs. The point guard led Salt Lake Community College to a 4519 record in her two years as a starter.

Riggs’ court savvy and knowledge of the

WATCH THE GAMES WITH US! u

SAVE

u

Bar and lunch specials Lots of flat-screens

THE DATE NOVEMBER 13TH & 14TH, 2014

410 Blackwell Street, Durham, NC 27701

12PM - 9PM SAVE UP TO

60% OFF!

DIRECTIONS TO WAREHOUSE SALE: • EXIT #266 OFF I-40 OR EXIT #165 OFF I-85 • GO NORTH ON NC 86 • TURN LEFT ONTO HWY 70A AT STOP LIGHT • TURN LEFT INTO THE SPORTS ENDEAVORS DRIVEWAY

www.mellowmushroom.com/Durham www.facebook.com/MellowMushroomDurham

The Chronicle

www.dukechroniclesports.com

game have fueled her success at every level of basketball, dating back to her high school state championship. But the transition from the junior college level to Division-I will certainly not be easy.

“The talent level and athleticism [at Division I] is so much greater,” Riggs said. “It’s really important to learn how to develop the tempo of your game, and that’s the biggest adjustment I have been working on.”

In Riggs—who is expected to come off the bench and lead the second unit— Duke has a gritty, defensive-minded point guard who is on a mission to prove that she belongs on the bigger stage. At only 5-foot-7, Riggs’ stature makes her an ideal defender, able to apply pressure on opposing point guards on the perimeter.

“I’m a gritty, passionate player and defense is all about effort,” Riggs said.

“You might be undersized and you might be weaker, but as long as you’re giving effort and playing smart, you’re always going to be able to play well on defense.”

In the Blue Devils’ early exhibitions and scrimmages, Riggs has appeared to be the vocal floor general that the young Duke bench needs in order to succeed.

Although the group has made great strides early in the season, Riggs stressed that there remains room to improve.

“We’re not there yet. But we’re getting there. When I came in during the summer, it was really sporadic and everyone was trying to figure out everyone’s game,” Riggs said. “But we’ve really learned how each other plays and who works with who.”

Irrespective of whether Johnson or

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014 | 19

Jack Dolgin | Chronicle File Photo Senior Ka’lia Johnson will bring an air of experience and leadership to the point guard position that will be much-needed after losing Chelsea Gray and Alexis Jones in the offseason.

Riggs runs the point, both will have to learn to mesh with redshirt freshman Rebecca Greenwell. After coming to Durham as the fourth-ranked high school player in the country, the guard was forced to redshirt as she recovered from knee surgery. At 6-foot-1, Greenwell is more of a shooting guard, but figures to play at the point at times this season.

Coming into the year, the Blue Devils expect Greenwell’s outside game to help her make an immediate impact.

“Rebecca is a fantastic player and she really plays beyond her years,” McCallie

said. “She is a special player, but in order to be one of the best, she has to put in the whole game—including defense and rebounding.”

With Johnson’s experience running the offense, Riggs’ tenacious defense, and Greenwell’s deadly outside shot, Duke seems to have the perfect point guards to thrive with Williams down low. But, with a schedule that includes games against four of the top five teams in the country— Connecticut, South Carolina, Notre Dame and Texas A&M—and numerous other top 25 encounters, there is no doubt that

the Duke point guards will be challenged throughout the season.

One thing is for sure. With Johnson at the helm, the Blue Devils will have a battle-tested veteran to lead one of the youngest rosters in recent memory.

“When anybody mentions pressure, I just remember that this is basketball and I’ve been playing since I was three years old,” Johnson said. “I don’t think there’s any pressure for this team. We’re just going to go out there and play our best every game ,and if we do that, we’ll have a very successful season.”

Stop By This Weekend for Beer Extravaganza and All Your Holiday Entertaining Needs!

Beer Extravaganza

Saturday, Nov. 8 | 2 - 5 p.m. | $8 advance/ $10 at the door Love beer? Then you’ll love Beer Extravaganza! There will be various local and national craft breweries and cideries sampling, live music and more. You’ll even have the chance to win one of our many giveaways!

Join us for the After Party exclusively for Beer Extravaganza attendees on the Weathervane patio from 5 - 8 p.m. With your entry you will receive your first pint of beer or cider free and an appetizer! $12 advance/ $15 at the door. Visit: http://goo.gl/hNTY21

New Holiday Menu

Visit our store for one-stop gift shopping and while you’re there, pick up our new holiday menu. It’s a busy time of year, so let us prepare your homemade Thanksgiving meal for you! http://www.southernseason.com/holidaycateringorders/

GRAB LIFE BY THE BURGER 100% Certified Angus Beef Burgers, Chicken Sandwiches, Salads, Black Bean Burgers, Local Beer, Shakes, and more.

Kids’ meals and Gluten Free options.

Dine in, take-out, cater or order online at ordersmash.com Hours: 10am-10pm Daily DURHAM, NC: 2608 Erwin Rd (Ph: 919-237-1070) Raleigh, NC (Opening Dec ‘14): 6679 Falls Of Neuse Rd (Ph: 919-870-9230)

FREE Side with purchase of an Entree* Expiration date: Dec. 31, 2014 201 South Estes Drive, Chapel Hill | University Mall (919) 929-7133 | | southernseason.com/sign-up

*Limit one per person per visit. Not valid for online orders. Not valid with other offers or discounts. Taxes not included. No photo copies. No cash value.

Valid at Durham and Raleigh (opening Dec ‘14) locations only. PLU 8002

The Chronicle

www.dukechroniclesports.com

20 | FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL E’S LAST HURRAH

Williams looks to end storied career with title Meredith Cash Beat Writer It feels like Elizabeth Williams has been a household name for Duke women’s basketball since the first time she stepped onto Coach K Court in 2011.

If it seems as though she has been playing for head coach Joanne P. McCallie for much longer than three seasons, it is likely due to all of the accolades she has garnered over that time period—three-time All America honors, three-time ACC Defensive Player of the Year, three-time First Team All-ACC, three-time gold medalist with Team USA and the 2011-2012 National Freshman of the Year.

The only thing missing from her long list of accomplishments is a trip to the NCAA Final Four.

In Williams’ rookie postseason, the Blue Devils fell to Stanford in the Elite Eight.

Despite nursing a stress fracture, Williams played and held her own. In her sophomore season, Duke again made an appearance in the Elite Eight, but lost to now-ACC rival Notre Dame. Last year, Williams and the second-seeded Blue Devils made an unexpected second-round exit with a loss at home to DePaul.

Heading into her final season in Durham, Williams will be the veteran leader on a team with six Blue Devils that have yet to suit up in a regular season game for Duke. A fresh start with the talented newcomers could be

Chris Dieckhaus | Chronicle File Photo Senior center Elizabeth Williams currently ranks 10th in career points and ninth in career rebounds through three seasons at Duke.

just the spark the Blue Devils need—but Williams knows it won’t come easily.

“It’s [my] senior year, obviously you want to do really well,” Williams said. “We’ve come up short of our expectations [in past postseasons]. This year with a completely new team, we obviously have high expectations for ourselves, but I think with this new team, it’s a process and it’s going to take some time for us to learn each other and learn what we’re capable of doing.”

THE BEST VIEW IN DURHAM

Williams is arguably in the best shape of her four-year career coming into this season.

For the first time since arriving at Duke, she had a healthy summer to concentrate on extra conditioning, increasing her shooting range and improving her free-throw shooting. She also was awarded the Iron Blue Devil Belt by the team’s strength and conditioning coach—William Stephens— for her hard work in summer and preseason conditioning. She out-lifted the rest of the

team by bench-pressing a whopping 190 pounds.

“Elizabeth is in incredible physical shape. She is truly one of the best players in the country this year, without question,” McCallie said. “But she’s also answered the bell—190 on the bench press—she is ready to go and ready to play a lot of minutes.

She’s a special player.”

Williams will likely bring “special” to a whole new level with the culmination of

Cracked Screen?

Water Damage?

Accessories?

Device l Data Protection? ...

STAYMOBILE.COM

919-282-DPIT

thepit-durham.com

2 CONVENIENT LOCATIONS: f DURHAM @ 919.908.1802 f RALEIGH @ 919.973.4406

staymobiledur staymobilerdu @staymobilerdu

The Chronicle her senior season, as she is in pursuit of multiple records.

Known for her incredible shot-blocking ability, swatting 331 shots in her career thus far, she is only 25 blocks away from moving into 25th on the NCAA career blocks list. With 103 more blocks, she could move into a tie for first on the Blue Devil and ACC career blocks lists with Alison Bales, who graduated from Duke in 2007.

Williams currently sits high in the record books at Duke and in the ACC. As a Blue Devil, she is currently ranked 10th in points with 1,491, ninth in rebounds with 790, and eighth in field goals made with 603. In the ACC, she ranks third in career blocks. She also holds the ACC freshman record for most blocks in a season and the conference record for most blocks in a single game—posting 12 at Wake Forest Jan. 6, 2012 to go with 18 points and 16 rebounds for her first triple double.

“It’s always exciting to have the opportunity to break records,” Williams said. “There have been some great players who came through here and to be able to even be close to that is very cool. I’m just going to do whatever it is my team needs me to do, whether it’s blocking shots like it has been over the past couple of years or scoring. Hopefully as the season progresses, I’ll be able to [break the ACC career blocks record], but it won’t be my main focus.”

On top of all of her basketball excellence, Williams is majoring in psychology and on the pre-medicine track.

She had a 4.19 grade average in high school and made the Dean’s List at Duke for the Spring semester of her freshman year. She is also a two-time ACC Honor Roll selection.

Williams has plenty of options after college, but they may have to wait until her playing days are over. She is expected to be a top draft pick in the upcoming 2015 WNBA Draft.

“My plan right now is to play in the WNBA and overseas for a couple of years and then go to medical school after that,” she said.

Williams will put all of these aspirations aside for now. The goal at the forefront of her mind is completing her collegiate career with a trip to the Final Four, and ultimately an NCAA championship.

www.dukechroniclesports.com

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014 | 21

CHRONICLE GRAPHIC BY ELYSIA SU

LOCATION! LOCATION! LOCATION!

Toll Free

4 1-866-5en95ts-@6ne6w0home1.com artm

pinnacleridgeap

Drive 3611 Unilevrierdgsieatypthomes.com

Darbi Griffith | The Chronicle In her final season in Durham, Elizabeth Williams will be Duke’s leader on both ends of the court, as she looks to make a third run to at least the Elite Eight in the NCAA tournament.

www.pinnac oor Plans • 8 Unique Fl ated Kitchens * Newly Renov & Baths* / ed Kitchens w • Fully Equipp s Breakfast Bar Sunroom or • Patio, Deck, asher & • Full Sized W * Dryer Included Fireplace ng • Wood Burni ter • Fitness Cen • Tennis Court deck Pool and Sun • Resort Style ourt t/Volleyball C • Indoor Racke

mes *in select ho

From Duke, turn left on Academy Dr. (Hwy. 751), right onto University Dr., you will see us on your left!

The Chronicle

www.dukechroniclesports.com

22 | FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014

Switch to Sprint for The Best Deal in Data.

Introducing the Sprint Family Share Pack.

Double + talk and text

Unlimited

the high-speed data of the other guys

all while on the Sprint network

enjoy football with delicious barbecue!

Dine-in | Take-out | Catering & online ordering

Limited time: get a bonus 2GB per line.

Bonus 2GB offer only available on 20GB monthly data allowance

Plus, we’ll buy out your family’s contract up to $350 per line.

We’ll pay you up to $350 via Visa® Prepaid Card for your Early Termination Fee or Install Bill balance when you switch and sign up for Sprint Family Share Pack 20 GB or higher. Once you have received your final bill from your other carrier, register for the Visa Prepaid Card at sprint.com/jointoday by 11/30/14. See store for full details. sprintstorelocator.com

Don’t delay!

Special offers for Duke University

students save 10% & employees save 18% off data buyups. See store for details. sprintstorelocator.com

8 Slow smoked meats & fresh homestyle sides!

Downtown RALEiGH DURHAM 170 East Davie St. 919.809.8830

5318 New Hope Commons Dr. 919.419.1101

CARY

200 Crossroads Blvd.

919.233.5801

“Like” us on Facebook Dickeys_NC or Follow us on Twitter @Dickeys_NC Offers subject to change. Restrictions apply. See store for full details.

©2014 Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurants, Inc.

ATTENTION FIRST-YEAR STUDENTS of

Applies to select regularly priced Sprint monthly service.

You can become a Robertson Scholar!

Use this code for the Sprint Discount Program.

Corporate ID: GSTDT_ZST sprintstorelocator.com 866.639.8354

Each year, first-year Duke students are invited to apply for the Robertson Scholars Leadership Program.

Join us for an information session to learn more about this opportunity!

Friday, November 7th, 5-6pm White Lecture Hall  Meet current scholars and staff members  Discuss program benefits and expectations

 Review important information about the application

and selection process (Application deadline: January 26)

Learn more at www.robertsonscholars.org

The Chronicle

www.dukechroniclesports.com

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014 | 23

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL REPLACING TALENT WITH TALENT

Blue Devils will look to move on after offseason losses Taseen Haque Beat Writer Moving on is hard to do, but if the Blue Devils want to make another run at the ACC title, they will have to do just that this season.

A chapter of Duke women’s basketball came to an end last year, as the Blue Devils lost what could be considered their core group for the past four years. However, Duke is optimistic that this changing of the guard can help them improve further.

“You’re starting over this year,” Duke head coach Joanne P. McCallie said. “You don’t carry anything over from the year before. So it excites me, but it also frustrates me, and it motivates me.”

One of the biggest losses the Blue Devils will feel this season is Chelsea Gray. The 5-foot-11 point guard was a mainstay of the Duke program, leading it to two ACC Tournament Championships, three ACC regular season titles and three appearances at the Elite Eight throughout her four years. Her notable court vision and shooting touch garnered national attention as she was named an All-American her sophomore and junior years. Averaging 10.8 points per game and 7.2 assists in her senior year before suffering a fractured kneecap, the California native will certainly be missed by the Blue Devils. “[Gray] was such a household name,” McCallie said.

“We only had her two years. She was such a special player.”

Another huge loss for Duke is Tricia Liston. The Illinois native carried most of the offensive load for the team last season, averaging 17.2 points per game. She was also a sharpshooter for the books, shooting 48.1 percent from beyond the arc and hitting a school record of 252 triples during her time in Durham.

Haley Peters was another casualty of graduation.

The 6-foot-3 grinder could play the two, three and four positions and was the defensive backbone of the team.

She averaged 7.6 rebounds per game last season, tied for the team high. She also had a big impact on the offensive side of the ball, averaging 11.2 points per game in 201314.

But the departure that made the most noise this offseason was that of Alexis Jones. The Texas native was a rising star in the Duke program. The 5-foot-8 point guard took over the starting job freshman year after Gray went down with a dislocated kneecap and took off from there. Averaging 13.1 points per game and 5.3 assists last season, Jones was an impressive floor general. Against Notre Dame last season, Jones tore her ACL. During the

offseason, she decided that it would be best to move near home during her recovery, and transferred to Baylor.

Although there were considerable losses, Duke will bring back several players that can make an immediate impact, one of which is senior Ka’lia Johnson. After an onslaught of injuries to the Blue Devil backcourt, Johnson stepped up to fill the gap for the last five games of the season.

“To actually be in the ACC Championship…here was Ka’lia playing a bunch of minutes with no time to prepare for that role,” McCallie said. “It will either be Ka’lia’s team or by committee, depending on what shakes out.”

The Virginia native also had a good performance at the annual Blue-White Scrimmage, scoring 15 points and

grabbing five boards, showing she still has yet to reach her full potential.

Another senior presence on the team that will need to step up is Amber Henson. The 6-foot-4 forward and center has shown sparks in the past and will look to leverage her experience into a contributing role for the Duke side.

“Amber’s doing great,” McCallie said. “She’s had a long road, and she’s looking as good as she’s ever looked.”

Although she may be a new name for Blue Devil fans, another important returner will be Rebecca Greenwell.

The Kentucky native redshirted last year after a knee

See Moving on on Page 24

Never looked So

Rock New Specs With Deal 1

$100 OFF First Complete Pair

Have Options With Deal 2

BO30% Buy one Complete Pair & Get a 2 nd CompletePair

Style in Suns With Deal 3

FREE SUNS Free sunglasses with a purchase of Rx glasses or an annual supply of contacts

Choose the deal that works for you!

We welcome outside prescriptions West Durham / South Square 3101 Shannon Road

(919) 863-2020

www.eyecareassociatesnc.com All deals are mutually exclusive and cannot be combined. Free Sun promotion is based on selected non-prescription assortments. Certain promotions cannot be combined with packages or insurance.

Promotion cannot be used for medical service fees and/or contact lens discounts. Other limitations may apply. Please ask Associate for more details. Good through 10/31/14.

Lesley Chen-Young | Chronicle File Photo Duke freshman Azura Stevens will make up just one of the four talented rookies head coach Joanne P. McCallie recruited.

Southpoint / Renaissance at Southpoint 7001-105 Fayetteville Road NEW North Durham / Old Blockbuster 3500 N. Duke Street, Suite 1 Durham / Duke Eye Center 2351 Erwin Road

24 | FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014

The Chronicle

www.dukechroniclesports.com

MOVING ON continued from page 23

Matthew Rock | The Chronicle Freshman Sierra Calhoun has established herself early on, as she is averging 13.0 points through Duke’s two exhibition contests.

WELCOME Duke Fans!

The University Club, a private fine dining club located in the penthouse suite of the University Tower, is offering SPECIAL Non-Member dining privileges to Duke University students, parents and alumni. Perfect for a meal before or after the game.

injury. The 6-foot-1 guard is a natural shooter, averaging 27.5 points per game—and hitting 11-of-21 threes— during the two exhibition games this season against Livingstone and Armstrong State. Without a doubt, Greenwell will need to succeed on the offensive side of the ball if the Blue Devils hope to continue their tradition of excellence.

“Rebecca was right at the forefront [during our practices]… and probably is one of the most competitive players,” McCallie said. “She’s hardwired that way.”

A rare occurrence for the Blue Devils, junior Mercedes Riggs is entering the team as a transfer student. The Utah native transferred from Salt Lake Community College and looks to see minutes at point guard. The 5-foot-7 guard had a solid showing at the Blue-White Scrimmage, scoring 13 points.

The Blue Devils also are bringing in the consensus No. 1 recruiting class in the nation. Erin Mathias, ESPN’s 39th-ranked recruit, is looking to strengthen her game this season as she will work on producing at a consistent rate. She may not see big minutes, but the Pittsburgh native certainly has lots of potential. “[Mathias] has great potential to make a difference,” McCallie said. “We need to get her perimeter game to be as consistent as it needs to be…. She’s been playing the three for us during practice, and if she can be that forward three for us, it will create special opportunities for her.”

Lyneé Belton is a newcomer who will immediately make an impact on the block. The ESPN ninth ranked recruit out of Maryland has had a good first offseason, consistently giving returning senior Elizabeth Williams trouble during practices. She also was able to tab eight points and five rebounds in the game against Armstrong State.

Another highly-touted recruit is Azurá Stevens. The 6-foot-5 guard and forward has tremendous versatility, with the ability to play outside and on the block. The Raleigh, N.C., native scored 16 points in the BlueWhite Scrimmage—shooting 50 percent from beyond the arc—and nabbed 11 points in the game versus Limestone.

The final recruit is ESPN’s 16th-ranked Sierra Calhoun. The 6-foot guard and forward combo is very athletic and can play well on both sides of the ball.

In the two exhibitions played thus far, Calhoun is averaging 13 points and seven rebounds.

Although the Blue Devils have yet to face a Division

I opponent, there is plenty of optimism surrounding the team as it heads into the regular season.

“There are more unknowns but it’s very exciting,” McCallie said. “It lets you create a little bit more.

Nobody knows what’s going to happen.”

Football & Basketball Home Games Alumni Reunion Weekend Graduation Weekend Call Eleanor Richardson at 919-323-4816 to reserve your stunning window table with panoramic views of campus! Advance reservations are required, call ahead for the 2014-2015 season today!

Matthew Rock | The Chronicle Redshirt junior Amber Henson has been riddled with injuries in the past two season, is healthy and ready to protect the paint for Duke.

The Chronicle

www.dukechroniclesports.com

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014 | 25

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL From Walk-on to Scholarship

Frush provides emotional uplift for the Blue Devils After walking on for her first three years, Duke awarded Jenna Frush a scholarship Delaney King Beat Writer When she joined the Blue Devils as a walk-on three years ago, Jenna Frush was an unheralded 5-foot-6 point guard who wasn’t heavily recruited coming out of high school.

Now, she’s a senior leader on scholarship for the No. 7 team in the country.

The Duke coaching staff rewarded Frush with a full scholarship for her final year on the squad. Despite a career average of just 2.5 minutes per game, the Durham native has proven that minutes on the court aren’t the only way to make an impact.

“It made perfect sense to give her that opportunity,” head coach Joanne P. McCallie said. “She really is a glue person on the team—not afraid to say things and to lead.”

Frush walked onto the team in 2011 to join a recruiting class made up of Collegiate Girls Basketball Report’s No. 1 and No. 5 recruits Elizabeth Williams and Amber Henson, as well as Ka’lia Johnson, who set her high school’s career and single-season points records

Darbi Griffith | Chronicle File Photo Duke senior Jenna Frush, who walked on her first three seasons in Durham, was awarded a scholarship for her senior season.

before graduating. But rather than being intimidated by the talented strangers, the then-freshman Frush contributed what her classmates did—hard work.

“When she came in, she had a lot of confidence,” Williams said. “Ever since the first time I met her, she was always really energetic. She realized early that anything she said—just because she’s working so hard—it makes an impact on us as players.”

Since the beginning of her time at

Duke, Frush has not only dedicated herself to her sport but to academia as well. As a pre-med psychology major, the senior is on track to take the MCAT in April before applying to medical school. Frush has managed to integrate her athletic and student interests, twice being named to the ACC Honor Roll and participating with Williams in the College Athletic Pre-Medical Experience, or “CAPE.” Both Frush and Williams cited the

other as a major source of support through their challenging academic journeys.

“It’s hard to talk to people who aren’t in the organic chemistries about it, because they think we’re crazy for doing it—which we probably are,” Frush said.

“Having [Williams] with me is something I wouldn’t trade, and hopefully I’ve given her a little bit of the support she’s given me.”

Along with supporting her fellow aspiring doctors, the vocal leader’s relationships with all of her teammates have defined her role on the team.

Frush’s scholarship is a reflection of her holistic contribution to the team, not just the stat sheet. “[McCallie] has made it clear to me that I’m here to be another set of eyes,” Frush said. “I participate in practice, but I also get to see a lot from the sidelines, so I’m the bridge between her and the players…. She’s put a lot of trust in me and my opinion and given me a lot of respect, which has been incredible.”

Considering her court sense and ability to give her teammates advice about any aspect of the game, it is hard to believe that basketball hasn’t always been Frush’s first choice for an athletic career.

“I liked soccer until I was a freshman See Frush on Page 26

26 | FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014

The Chronicle

www.dukechroniclesports.com

FRUSH

continued from page 25

Kevin Shamieh | Chronicle File Photo Jenna Frush has been a vocal leader from the sidelines for the Blue Devils throughout her three years at Duke.

A NIGHT WITH INDUSTRY BIOTECH

PANEL DISCUSSION

in high school—it was my main sport,” Frush said. “My brother was the one who got me into basketball…. He had this incredible work ethic, and I remember I would go out with him before school and rebound for him.

He’s been my role model since I was little, so I just always wanted to do everything he did.”

Just as she didn’t expect to fall in love with basketball, the walk-on also didn’t see herself playing the role of coach until she joined the squad.

Now, after working so diligently on the mental aspects of the game, Frush might have a new career to pursue along with her dream of being a doctor.

“Being here, [coaching] is definitely something I’ve thought about,” Frush said. “I just love the game— everything about it—and being a walk-on is kind of like coaching, so it’s given me a whole different insight into the game, which I’ve loved.”

After the graduation of four seniors from last season’s squad as well as the transfer of point guard Alexis Jones, this year’s Blue Devils must incorporate several new pieces. The squad returns just one starter and has added six players with no Division I regular season experience.

Frush is already looking for ways she can contribute without having to score points on the floor.

“We’re a young team, and we have a lot of room to grow,” Frush said. “One thing I can help the team with is just to continue growing and continue getting better.

If that means I’m on the court, so be it, and if not, I’m going to do whatever I can to get us to the next level.”

As energetic in her fourth year as she was in her first, Frush has maintained the same perspective of her role on the team even after receiving her scholarship and is determined to continue the hard work that got her to this point.

“The scholarship is an incredible thing, but it’s just kind of an added bonus,” Frush said. “I know exactly what Coach wants me to do, and I just want to bring out the best in my teammates and—scholarship or not—I’m here for them and I’m here to help us win a national championship.”

Followed By

Informal Networking THURSDAY, 11/13, 6-9 pm Gross Hall 107

Samantha Schafrank | Chronicle File Photo Senior Jenna Frush will look to pursue a career in medicine following her final game as a Blue Devil this season.

The Chronicle

www.dukechroniclesports.com

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014 | 27

TRUSTY’S HOLIDAY

GIFT GUIDE

Great gifts for all your outdoor adventurers.

YETI® HOPPER 30

Equipping Life & Adventure

www.GreatOutdoorProvision.com Eastgate Shopping Center

Oval Park Grille is a true neighborhood bar and grill where we want to get to know your name and we want you to enjoy the best in food and drink. We are offering delicious takes on classic comfort food and health conscious choices.

1116 Broad Street Mon-Fri: 5pm-11pm Sat-Sun: 11am-11pm 919-401-6566 ovalparkgrille.com

Follow

The Chronicle @DukeChronicle

1800 East Franklin Street

919-933-6148

28 | FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2014

www.dukechroniclesports.com

The Chronicle