Coach K and his Duke staff tipped off their fall recruiting with a future replacement for either Luke Kennard or Grayson Allen in 6-5 Alex O’Connell from Alpharetta, GA Milton High who committed to the Blue Devils this past weekend. He announced his decision via twitter:

“The Process has been long and Challenging, but I am excited to officially end my recruitment! There was one school that stood out to me, and felt the most at home to me. I am excited to announce that I will be continuing my academic, and basketball career at Duke University!” @Alex_OC11 #BlueDevils

He chose Duke over Louisville, Syracuse, and Georgia

Even though he said that it didn’t effect his decision, Alex’s father Dave played at Duke in the 1970’s.

O’Connell is an excellent shooter from deep, and despite being rail thin is a deceptive, yet explosive, athlete with big hops and a quick first step. Who doesn’t look the part, but can flat out get it done from the arc to the rim! One reason he will fill one of the voids left by the current Duke duo in Allen and Kennard.

He averaged 14 points an outing this summer for Team United on the EYBL circuit and showed he can get to the hoop against some of the top talent in the Class of 2017. He like Kennard and Allen has solid handling skills and can run the break off the glass in transition. He has all the tools to set up drive with his long range jumper and quick release that will make him a real threat for the Blue Devils as he gains physical strength and maturity. He will be a multi-year player for the Blue Devils who will fit the Duke mold of smart, athletic, and skilled that has made them a nation power over the past three decades!