That sentiment, while enthusiastic, also reflects a calculated choice. Coward chose Duke over offers from top programs like Alabama, drawn by a system that emphasizes ball movement, positional flexibility, and defensive intensity, areas where he has shown strength.

Most reports of Cedric Coward's commitment to Duke basketball head coach Jon Scheyer and his staff on Monday evening are not worded correctly. After all, the Blue Devils have not actually "landed" the former Washington State and Eastern Washington forward just yet.

Coward has attracted attention from a number of high-major programs, including Alabama, Florida, Kansas, and Washington. According to On3’s Transfer Portal Rankings, he is rated as a four-star prospect, ranking 17th overall and seventh among shooting guards in the 2025 cycle.