Duke Basketball's 'Motherhood' Fuels March Madness Run

Moms' group chat, matching shirts, and pregame rituals support Blue Devils' 'Brotherhood'

Mar. 29, 2026 at 3:08pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An abstract, energetic painting in neon blues, greens, and reds, with rapid brushstrokes conveying the passionate cheering and emotion of a group of basketball moms supporting their sons on the court.The Duke basketball 'Motherhood' brings a surge of energy and support to their sons' March Madness run.Wheaton Today

Behind Duke basketball's success in the 2026 NCAA Tournament is a tight-knit group of mothers, dubbed the 'Motherhood,' who have created a vibrant community to support their sons on the team. From a lively group chat to matching shirts and game-day rituals, these moms have become an integral part of the Blue Devils' journey, providing love, care, and unwavering encouragement.

Why it matters

The Duke basketball 'Motherhood' highlights the vital role that family and community play in the lives of student-athletes. Their support, camaraderie, and shared experiences create a powerful network that can positively impact a team's performance and morale, especially on the biggest stages like the NCAA Tournament.

The details

The 'Motherhood' group chat, originally titled 'Duke moms 2025,' was created in 2024 after the team's Countdown to Craziness event. The moms have since carved out individual roles, with some known for their humor, others for their organization, and one mom even vlogging from the stands. The group has also embraced rituals like wearing matching 'Motherhood' shirts, listening to specific songs on the bus, and planning special celebrations like senior day. Beyond the basketball court, the moms provide home-cooked meals, do laundry, and offer a listening ear to their sons, who credit their mothers as integral to their success.

  • The 'Motherhood' group chat was created in October 2024 following Countdown to Craziness.
  • The group's matching 'Motherhood' shirts were made a few months later, in early 2025.
  • The moms have worn the shirts twice as a group during the 2026 NCAA Tournament.

The players

Marieke Lemon

Mother of Isaiah Evans and described as the 'rowdy' one of the group.

Taj Ngongba

The 'team mom' who keeps the group organized and sends out game-day texts with prayers.

Roxy Harris

Mother of Darren Harris, known for her sense of humor and once getting a temporary Duke tattoo.

Alena Khamenia

Mother of Nik Khamenia, who shares screenshots of the group chat with her husband to keep him informed.

Ava Sheffield

Mother of Cameron Sheffield, who felt celebrated by the group during her son's senior day.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“It's true motherhood. That's the only way you can say it. It's a true motherhood of love, care and compassion.”

— Marieke Lemon, Mother of Isaiah Evans

“I take a screenshot and send it to my husband. I say make sure you follow.”

— Alena Khamenia, Mother of Nik Khamenia

“I've never had a senior day experience like this where as a mom, I felt celebrated.”

— Ava Sheffield, Mother of Cameron Sheffield

What’s next

The Duke basketball team will face off against St. John's in the Sweet 16 of the 2026 NCAA Tournament, with the 'Motherhood' group cheering them on from the stands.

The takeaway

The Duke basketball 'Motherhood' exemplifies the power of community and family support in college sports. Their unwavering dedication, shared rituals, and genuine camaraderie have become an integral part of the Blue Devils' success, proving that a team's 'Brotherhood' can be strengthened by the 'Motherhood' behind it.