Duke's Scheyer Optimistic About Caleb Foster's Possible Return

Coach says injured point guard could play in Sweet Sixteen, but on minutes restriction

Mar. 26, 2026 at 10:04pm

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Duke head coach Jon Scheyer expressed optimism that injured point guard Caleb Foster could suit up for the team's Sweet Sixteen matchup against St. John's, though he would likely be on a minutes restriction. Foster has missed the last five games due to a foot injury suffered in the regular season finale against North Carolina.

Why it matters

Foster's return would be a major boost for Duke, as he has been a valuable complementary piece for the Blue Devils all season, providing three-point shooting, playmaking, and strong defense. His absence has been felt, so his potential return could help Duke get closer to full strength as they make a tournament run.

The details

Scheyer said Foster has not practiced but has done some work on the floor, and his mindset is to "give it a go" in the Sweet Sixteen. The coach said he was initially hopeful Foster could return for the final weekend, but the player's determination has exceeded expectations. Scheyer cautioned that if Foster does play, his minutes will be limited as he works his way back.

  • Foster suffered the foot injury in Duke's regular season finale against North Carolina on March 1, 2026.
  • Foster has missed Duke's last five games, including the team's three ACC Tournament games and first two NCAA Tournament games.
  • Duke faces St. John's in the Sweet Sixteen on March 27, 2026.

The players

Jon Scheyer

Duke's head basketball coach.

Caleb Foster

Duke's junior point guard who has been out with a foot injury.

Patrick Ngongba

Duke's center who recently returned from his own injury.

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What they’re saying

“The fact we've been talking about him playing is an upset. What he's been doing is incredible. His mindset is to give it a go tomorrow. Now we got to, again, have another good day today. But he's gonna give it a go.”

— Jon Scheyer, Head Coach

“I was hopeful that maybe he could play the final weekend, maybe. But, again, I was trying to be supportive of him, what he was thinking in his mind, and he was just determined to get back for this. I don't think anything's standing in his way. Obviously, no matter what, his first game back, like Pat, it can't be high minutes or anything like that.”

— Jon Scheyer, Head Coach

What’s next

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The takeaway

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