Over the past 25 years, no program in the country has become as synonymous with the three-point shot as Duke. The Blue Devils have hosted some of the college game’s most prolific shooters in history, and enjoyed tremendous success because of it.
With that in mind, it should be no secret that high school shooters continue to flock towards Durham and the chance to play for Mike Krzyzewski.
A part of Duke’s heralded 2015 class, Luke Kennard aims to be the next in line of legendary snipers to play in Cameron Indoor Stadium.
Name: Luke Kennard
Height: 6’5
Position: Shooting Guard
Ranking: Five-star, No. 22 overall
Strengths: If you couldn’t guess it already, Kennard is a prolific shooter from deep. What makes him special is that he has already displayed the ability to be a menace off of the ball. Kennard reads his defenders so well when coming off of screens, and understands the kinds of cuts he needs to make to gain separation. When he gets that separation, he has a lightning quick release. Kennard also showcases a tremendous understanding of the game, making the simple plays like swinging the ball to an open man. His effort level, basketball IQ, and competitiveness should translate immediately to Duke.
Areas to Improve: Kennard is a very average athlete, meaning that the initial concern for him at Duke will be on the defensive end against ACC-level wings. I see no reason to believe he can’t be a quality team defender, but guarding his man individually could be an issue. He also has a lot of room to grow as a ball handler and shot creator off of the bounce.
