Caleb Foster provides another reminder of his importance to Duke's title hopes

Another year, another Jon Scheyer masterclass. With each of the past two seasons ending in heartbreaking fashion, it was hard to believe Scheyer could put together another roster capable of rivaling the previous year's dominance. Yet somehow, he's managed to do exactly that every single time, and this year is no exception.

While he once again brought in one of the best, if not the best, recruiting classes in the nation, Scheyer checked every box this offseason. He landed John Blackwell in the Transfer Portal, kept Patrick Ngongba II and Dame Sarr in Durham, and perhaps most importantly, convinced Caleb Foster to stay for at least one more year.

Of course, Duke made many other additions that will be major contributors to this year's squad, but Foster's importance cannot be overlooked. Ever since he arrived at Duke, Foster has done whatever he can to contribute to the team's success, with his own stats and accolades coming second. The level of leadership and selflessness he brings is rare in today's game.

And that selflessness can sometimes overshadow just how talented Foster actually is. A recent clip from Nike Academy this week reminded everyone of the type of player he can be when he has the opportunity to make plays.

Caleb Foster looks ready to remind college basketball why he can't be overlooked

It seems like we can expect more from Foster on the offensive end this year, with his confidence looking sky-high. The step-back jumper he hits over North Carolina's incoming freshman Maximo Adams could be a lethal addition to his game. Foster has shown his ability to hit that type of shot before, but looks much smoother and more confident in the clip.

With Duke's backcourt as loaded as it is, it should come as no surprise that Foster is continuing to find ways to sharpen his game. He has gotten better every season he has been a Blue Devil, and his work ethic and commitment to the team have never been in question.

Throughout his time in Durham, he has been surrounded by some of the best talent in college basketball, which at times has led to a smaller role. Despite never putting up the type of numbers that raise eyebrows, Foster's impact has never been limited to the box score. However, that doesn't mean he's incapable of taking over a game when Duke needs him most.

After the Blue Devils struggled during the first weekend of the tournament this past March, it was clear Duke was missing both Foster and Ngongba. While Ngongba's return certainly helped, it was Foster who propelled Duke to its third consecutive Elite Eight appearance after his magical performance against St. John's. It was the perfect example of who Foster has always been, and exactly what Duke will need from him this season.

Duke brought in plenty of veteran leadership and talent alongside Foster this season, but there is no question who the team's leader is. Few players have represented The Brotherhood better than Foster, and he may be the most underrated piece of this year's team as Duke looks to be national champions once again and break through in the Jon Scheyer era.

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