We’ve linked to a couple of videos recently of Duke greats like Paolo Banchero, Amile Jefferson, Jared McCain, Jayson Tatum, and Kyrie Irving coming back to Duke to play with this year’s team.
We’ve talked a bit about how useful they are to the younger guys, and how they can measure their progress against some of the best in the game. Here’s what Irving and Tatum had to say about being part of something bigger than themselves.
Kyrie Irving
“Yeah, I think just communication-wise we have to [be at an] ultimate high level. Then, you know, talking.
“Sometimes when you’re playing that you hear my voice. Point guards, guards, it’s our jobs to make sure that we organize, make sure that we’re just at the point of attack. Holding the fort down. You know, our swings, bigs, you guys, because they’re all running up and down the floor making sure we keep the pace.
“But us guards, our communication—make sure we’re in the right defensive principles. That goes a long way. And then just, we always say have fun, but we got a target on our back everywhere we go.
“So get used to it. Get dialed in, I know you guys are. Sophomores, juniors, seniors, lead the freshmen. Guys, keep working.”
Jayson Tatum
“You know, I enjoy coming back, getting to know all of y’all.
“And quite honestly this is like—this is what this is about, all right? Like when I was here, guys like him and Jabari came back. So, you know, it’s just our responsibility.
“Pay it forward, guys. Means a lot to this program and, you know, we care about you guys.
“So, you know, as much as y’all enjoyed this, I know we did too. Um, and you know, we just want to see y’all be the best y’all can be.”
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