The Duke Blue Devils have added another exciting piece to their future backcourt, securing a commitment from Taine Jackson, a highly skilled 2026 guard from New Zealand. The news comes as a major boost for head coach Jon Scheyer and his staff, as they continue to build for the future with international talent.
Jackson, a 6’4” combo guard, has been making waves on the international scene with his elite ball-handling, sharp shooting, and high basketball IQ. His ability to create offense, both for himself and his teammates, has drawn comparisons to past Duke greats, making him an exciting addition to the program.
Despite interest from multiple high-profile programs, Jackson ultimately chose Duke, citing its rich basketball history, elite coaching staff, and development program as key factors in his decision.
“Duke has always been a dream school for me,” Jackson said. “The culture, the fans, and the way they develop guards is something that really stood out. I can’t wait to be part of it.”
With his commitment, Jackson becomes a cornerstone piece of Duke’s 2026 recruiting class. His skill set makes him a perfect fit for Scheyer’s modern offensive system, which emphasizes versatility, pace, and elite perimeter play.
Key strengths Jackson brings to Duke:
✅ Elite playmaking ability – A true floor general with excellent court vision.
✅ Scoring versatility – Can shoot from deep, finish at the rim, and create off the dribble.
✅ Strong defensive instincts – Uses his length and quickness to disrupt opponents.
Landing Jackson is yet another sign of Duke’s growing international recruiting success. The Blue Devils have been expanding their reach beyond the U.S., identifying top-tier talent from around the world, and Jackson represents the latest addition to that trend.
With his commitment, Duke’s 2026 class continues to take shape, and the Blue Devils are showing no signs of slowing down in their pursuit of top-tier talent.
Taine Jackson is officially a Blue Devil—and Duke fans have plenty to be excited about for the future.
Leave a Reply