Bill Self and the Kansas basketball program are renowned for arranging challenging nonconference schedules, often squaring off against top-tier opponents nationwide. However, the 2024-25 season presents a particularly daunting prospect for KU.
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Reports suggest that Kansas is in discussions with Duke for a neutral site matchup in November, adding to an already formidable schedule. Alongside scheduled home-and-home fixtures with North Carolina, participation in the Champions Classic against Michigan State, and a potential away game against reigning champions UConn, this potential clash between two college basketball powerhouses heightens anticipation for the upcoming season.
Since 2011, Duke and Kansas have met every three years as part of the Champions Classic. However, their upcoming encounter will be separate from the event, marking a departure from tradition. Instead, it will be a matchup in The Players Era tournament, an in-season event offering up to $2 million in NIL money.
Outside of the Champions Classic, the two programs rarely face off. Kansas secured victory over Duke in the Elite Eight in 2018, advancing to the Final Four, while Duke triumphed over KU in the 2011 Maui Invitational Finals. Under Coach Self’s leadership, Kansas holds a 4-2 record against Duke.
If the plan materializes, it will mark the first time in school history that Kansas and Duke face off without legendary coach Mike Krzyzewski on the sidelines. Former player Jon Scheyer assumed the coaching role in 2022, guiding the Blue Devils to an Elite Eight appearance in his second season.
Despite being viewed as contenders for a national title in the preseason, the Jayhawks will face significant challenges against these top-tier opponents. Further details are expected to emerge, but as of now, no specifics regarding time, date, or venue have been finalized.
