Mike Krzyzewski has himself a new point guard. Weeks after losing Tyus Jones to the NBA, Duke received a commitment from five-star point guard Derryck Thornton on Tuesday. Thornton is currently set for the 2016 class but plans on reclassifying so he’s eligible to play for the Blue Devils next season.
5-star point guard Derryck Thornton commits to Duke
It’s a big get for the Blue Devils.
Ricky O'Donnell has covered basketball at all levels for more than a decade at SB Nation. He’s currently the Associate Director of Programming.
The 6'1, 165-pound Thornton is rated as the No. 11 player in the class of 2016 by ESPN. The California native played at powerhouse Findley Prep last season and counted offers from Arizona, Kentucky and Louisville, just to name a few. Louisville was another school reportedly trying to convince Thornton to reclassify.
Thornton’s commitment fills Duke’s biggest need coming into next season. Jones decided to turn pro after leading Duke to the national championship and being named the Most Outstanding Player of the NCAA Tournament, leaving the Blue Devils with a big hole in the backcourt. Now, Thornton is likely the starter at the point.
Jones joins a recruiting class that already includes a pair of McDonald’s All-Americans in shooting guard Luke Kennard and center Chase Jeter. Duke is also still reportedly in the mix for five-star wing Brandon Ingram. If Duke lands Ingram, LSU’s grip on the No. 1 recruiting class in the country will be short lived.
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