In a significant development for college basketball, forward Jaemyn Brakefield has re-signed with the Duke Blue Devils after his tenure with the Ole Miss Rebels. This move marks a full-circle moment for Brakefield, who began his collegiate career at Duke before transferring to Ole Miss.
A Promising Start at Duke
Brakefield, a native of Jackson, Mississippi, committed to Duke in October 2019 as a five-star recruit. During his freshman season (2020-2021), he appeared in 22 games, averaging 3.5 points and 2.5 rebounds per game. Despite showing potential, Brakefield sought increased playing time and entered the transfer portal in March 2021.
Productive Seasons at Ole Miss
At Ole Miss, Brakefield became a key contributor. In the 2024-2025 season, he averaged 11.0 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game. Notably, he delivered a game-winning shot on Senior Night against the Missouri Tigers, highlighting his growth and clutch performance.
Return to Duke
Following the conclusion of the 2024-2025 season, Brakefield re-entered the transfer portal. His decision to return to Duke aligns with the Blue Devils’ efforts to bolster their roster with experienced talent. Head Coach Jon Scheyer expressed enthusiasm about Brakefield’s return, emphasizing his maturity and the depth he adds to the team.
Impact on the Blue Devils
Brakefield’s return is projected to have a pivotal impact on Duke’s performance in the upcoming season. His experience and versatility are expected to enhance the team’s competitiveness in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) and on the national stage. Fans and analysts alike are optimistic that Brakefield’s reunion with the Blue Devils will contribute significantly to their pursuit of championship success.
As the Blue Devils prepare for the upcoming season, the addition of seasoned players like Brakefield underscores their commitment to blending experience with emerging talent to achieve their goals.
