Jeremy Roach Faces Duke in NCAA Showdown: Baylor vs. Blue Devils Preview 2025

 

 

RALEIGH, N.C. – Sunday’s NCAA Tournament clash isn’t just about Jeremy Roach—it’s about Duke vs. Baylor with a spot in the Sweet 16 on the line. With at least two future NBA lottery picks on the floor and Jon Scheyer trying to accomplish what Scott Drew did in 2021—winning a national title—this matchup exemplifies modern college basketball dynamics.

Jeremy Roach’s Transfer from Duke to Baylor

After four years as a lead guard at Duke, including 108 appearances, 11 NCAA Tournament games, and a Final Four run, Roach reached a crossroads. Though he had an extra year of eligibility due to the COVID-impacted 2020-21 season, both he and Duke’s staff agreed that it was time to move on.

“It was handled with love and honesty, and we both felt it was the best move for his career,” said Duke head coach Jon Scheyer.

Sitting in Waco, Texas, Scott Drew saw an opportunity. With a highly-rated freshman guard, Rob Wright, and top newcomer V.J. Edgecombe already on the roster, Baylor sought experienced leadership through the transfer portal. Roach stood out, particularly after his standout performance in Madison Square Garden, where he played all 40 minutes and scored 18 points against Baylor last season.

“You try to get some stability,” Drew explained. “When we won the 2021 national title, we had two elite guards in Davion Mitchell and Jared Butler. Jeremy brings experience and leadership that complements Rob Wright.”

Adjusting to a New Role at Baylor

While Roach may have envisioned a leadership role at Baylor, he has adapted into a key role player as the season progressed. Baylor’s offense performed better with Rob Wright as the primary playmaker, leading to Drew officially making the switch in February.

Despite the adjustment, Roach has maintained a positive attitude and embraced his role. “When we made the decision to bring him off the bench, he told us, ‘Whatever is best for the team.’ He’s helped mentor younger players and keeps the team engaged,” said Drew.

Now, he faces his former team in a high-stakes showdown. Can he be an X-factor against the Blue Devils?

Jeremy Roach’s Mindset Before Facing Duke

Roach has been following Duke all season, and when the tournament bracket revealed Baylor would face the Blue Devils, he wasn’t surprised.

“Knowing the NCAA Selection Committee, they love a storyline,” Roach joked. “I’m focused on what Baylor needs to do to win this game.”

With the pressure mounting, Roach is trying to treat this like just another game, but emotions will undoubtedly run high.

Will Roach Deliver a March Madness Moment?

While Roach hasn’t had the breakout season he might have hoped for at Baylor, he still has a chance to leave his mark. If he rises to the occasion, he could give Baylor a defining March Madness moment. On the flip side, if he pushes too hard, he risks making critical mistakes.

Regardless of Sunday’s outcome, Roach is taking the season in stride.

“This year has been full of valuable experiences,” Roach said. “It’s my last season, and I want to make the most of it.”

How to Watch Duke vs. Baylor

Catch the game live across CBS platforms, including:

• CBS
• CBS Sports Network
• Paramount+ (Click here to stream live)
• CBS Sports Golazo Network