Eye On College Basketball: Best Final Four Field Ever? How Jon Scheyer Got the Duke Job and Exceeded the Expectations

Released on March 31, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of Eye On College Basketball hosted by CBS Sports, veterans Gary Parrish and Matt Norlander dive deep into the excitement surrounding the 2025 Final Four. With all four number one seeds—San Antonio, Auburn, Florida, and Duke—advancing, the hosts discuss whether this lineup represents the best Final Four ever. Additionally, they explore the remarkable journey of Jon Scheyer, Duke’s head coach, analyzing how he secured the prestigious position and surpassed all expectations.

The 2025 Final Four: Best Field Ever?

Gary Parrish opens the conversation by highlighting the unprecedented nature of the 2025 Final Four, where all four teams are number one seeds: San Antonio, Auburn, Florida, and Duke. This is only the second time in history that all Final Four teams are top seeds, a feat previously achieved in 2008.

Matt Norlander reinforces this sentiment by providing statistical backing:

"The collective efficiency margin of those four teams... adds up to be comfortably the best in the history of advanced metrics." (02:34)

Parrish echoes this enthusiasm, stating:

"Whatever team wins, this will be a worthy champion that is looked upon fondly." (04:47)

The hosts agree that the absence of a "Cinderella" team this year contributes to the high quality of competition, ensuring that any champion will have a legitimate claim to being the best team in the country.

The Role of the Transfer Portal in Final Four Success

A significant portion of the discussion centers around the impact of the transfer portal on the Final Four teams. Three out of the four leading teams—Auburn, Florida, and Houston—are spearheaded by players who began their careers elsewhere before transferring to their current programs:

• Auburn’s Janai Broome started at Morehead State.
• Florida’s Walter Clayton Jr. began at Iona.
• Houston’s LJ Crier was a transfer from Baylor.

Norlander remarks:

"This Final Four reflects where we are in the sport. The transfer portal is now integral to building championship teams." (15:18)

Gary Parrish adds that this trend is unlikely to reverse, noting:

"It wouldn't surprise me if the Final Four continues to feature teams with players from the transfer portal in the coming years." (19:16)

They argue that the transfer portal has democratized talent distribution, allowing players like Donovan Dent of New Mexico to move to programs like UCLA, enhancing competitive balance and team strength.

Jon Scheyer's Path to Duke and Coaching Success

A focal point of the episode is the story of Jon Scheyer, Duke’s head coach, whose ascent to the position is both inspiring and serendipitous. Initially considering positions at DePaul and UNLV, Scheyer’s trajectory changed dramatically when both opportunities fell through, ultimately leading him back to his alma mater.

Norlander shares an insightful recount:

"Scheyer was deeply invested in both the DePaul and UNLV processes. When neither panned out, Duke became the perfect next step, and he seized the opportunity with remarkable success." (22:24)

He elaborates on Scheyer’s meticulous approach to building his team, emphasizing intentional roster construction over mere talent accumulation. Scheyer integrated key transfers and top-tier freshmen, creating a balanced and highly efficient squad.

Exceeding Expectations: Analyzing Scheyer’s Tenure

Reflecting on Scheyer's three-year tenure, Parrish asserts that Scheyer has not only met but exceeded expectations. With an astounding 89 wins across three seasons, Scheyer has positioned Duke as a formidable force in college basketball.

"He's made Duke into his own image, exceeding all expectations with 89 wins and a Final Four appearance." (31:55)

Parrish further praises Scheyer’s strategic acumen:

"Jon was very intentional with how he put together this roster... it’s a well-put-together roster and one of the biggest keys to Duke's success." (27:22)

The duo agrees that Scheyer’s ability to blend star freshmen with strategic transfers has been crucial in maintaining Duke’s elite status, making the potential to win the national championship a reality.

Predictions and Trivia

In the latter part of the episode, Parrish and Norlander engage in a lively trivia segment, reinforcing their deep knowledge of the teams and players. They discuss Auburn’s familiarity with the other Final Four teams, which could provide a strategic advantage in the championship games.

Parrish confidently predicts:

"I think Florida probably has the edge due to their previous performances against these teams." (37:33)

However, he remains open to surprises, acknowledging the competitiveness of the Final Four matchup.

Conclusion

The episode wraps up with Parrish and Norlander expressing their excitement for the upcoming Final Four in San Antonio. They highlight the convergence of top-tier talent, strategic coaching, and the evolving landscape of college basketball influenced by the transfer portal. With Jon Scheyer at the helm, Duke stands as a testament to what intentional leadership and strategic player management can achieve, potentially heralding a new era in college basketball.

Notable Quotes

• "This is indisputably the best Final Four field we've ever had." – Matt Norlander (02:34)
• "Whatever team wins, this will be a worthy champion that is looked upon fondly." – Gary Parrish (04:47)
• "This Final Four reflects where we are in the sport. The transfer portal is now integral to building championship teams." – Matt Norlander (15:18)
• "He's made Duke into his own image, exceeding all expectations with 89 wins and a Final Four appearance." – Gary Parrish (31:55)
• "Jon was very intentional with how he put together this roster... it’s a well-put-together roster and one of the biggest keys to Duke's success." – Gary Parrish (27:22)

This summary encapsulates the engaging and informative discussions from the March 31, 2025, episode of Eye On College Basketball. Whether you're a seasoned fan or new to the excitement of college basketball, Parrish and Norlander provide valuable insights into one of the most compelling Final Fours in history and the remarkable rise of Jon Scheyer as Duke’s head coach.