Maliq Brown surprised Duke basketball fans with his unexpected pick for the most impressive freshman during his appearance on The Brotherhood Podcast. When asked by host Caleb Foster which newcomer had stood out the most this summer, the senior forward didn’t choose the highly-touted Cameron Boozer — widely viewed as one of the top incoming freshmen in the country. Instead, he named Dame Sarr.
“I’d say Dame Sarr,” Brown responded. “He’s got a crazy wingspan — really long arms — and he’s already about 6’6 or 6’7. But it’s the feel he has for the game that really stands out. Whether it’s scoring, getting a stop, or making the right pass off a ball screen, he just knows how to play.”
Sarr, a late addition to Duke’s incoming class, became a Blue Devil after it became clear that Cedric Coward would remain in the 2025 NBA Draft. Initially expected to join Kansas — even receiving a crystal ball prediction to the Jayhawks — Sarr instead committed to Jon Scheyer’s program, adding size and perimeter shooting to Duke’s roster.
At 6’7, Sarr is known for his strong outside shooting and polished defense. What makes him unique among 2025-26 recruits is his professional experience — having played for FC Barcelona. In 27 games combined across EuroLeague and Liga ACB competition, he shot an impressive 53.7% overall and 44.8% from beyond the arc.
Sarr is already in serious contention for a starting role on the wing, likely battling fellow freshman Nik Khamenia for the small forward spot. Khamenia is still overseas playing for Team USA in the U19 FIBA World Cup, so Brown hasn’t seen him in action yet. Still, Brown’s unexpected praise of Sarr could signal just how impactful the Italian guard might be for the Blue Devils this season.
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