DJ Steward Shines Bright in Summer League Debut — 20-Point Showcase in Lakers Jersey Rekindles Duke Dreams

In a dazzling return to the spotlight, former Duke Blue Devil DJ Steward made waves in his NBA Summer League debut with the Los Angeles Lakers, pouring in 20 points and reigniting hope among Blue Devil faithful who once believed he had the makings of a college basketball superstar.

On a warm night in Las Vegas, the Lakers’ Summer League squad took the floor under the bright lights and scrutinizing eyes of scouts, coaches, and basketball fans from across the country. But it was Steward — a name that had nearly faded into the background of basketball’s relentless cycle of stars — who stole the show with a confident, explosive performance that felt like a personal revival tour.

Steward, who had a promising but short-lived stint at Duke before going undrafted in 2021, carved up the defense with ease, displaying the poise, speed, and shot-making ability that once made him a five-star recruit. The 6’2″ guard finished with 20 points on efficient shooting, going 7-for-11 from the field, including 3-of-5 from beyond the arc. He added three assists, a couple of rebounds, and one steal in just under 25 minutes of action — a performance that felt more like a statement than a stat line.

For Duke fans, the performance triggered a mixture of joy and nostalgia. Steward was once part of a much-hyped recruiting class expected to keep the Blue Devils atop the college basketball world. But the 2020–21 season — a pandemic-disrupted year for all of college sports — derailed many of those dreams. Duke missed the NCAA Tournament, and Steward’s draft stock never recovered.

Though he declared for the draft after just one year, his name went uncalled, and he found himself bouncing around G League teams and overseas rosters. Many fans believed his early exit from college basketball was premature, arguing he could’ve blossomed into a star had he returned to Durham for a sophomore season.

Steward’s play drew praise not only from fans but also from basketball analysts and Lakers staff members who noted his improved decision-making, defensive intensity, and off-ball movement — areas that were once considered weaknesses in his game.

As the Summer League continues, all eyes will remain on Steward to see if he can sustain this level of play. The Lakers — known for unearthing hidden gems like Austin Reaves — might have another surprise in the making. While nothing is guaranteed, performances like this don’t go unnoticed, especially in a league where opportunity is fleeting and every possession matters.

Meanwhile, back in Durham, the Duke community is buzzing. Steward’s success is being celebrated as a win for “The Brotherhood,” the nickname affectionately given to the fraternity of former Blue Devils in the NBA. His journey — from five-star recruit to undrafted prospect to potential NBA comeback story — mirrors the resilience and pride that defines the program.

Duke head coach Jon Scheyer, who took over after Mike Krzyzewski’s retirement, even sent out a congratulatory message on social media, writing, “Proud of you, DJ! Keep going. You’ve got the whole Brotherhood behind you.”

Whether Steward secures a spot on the Lakers’ roster or earns a two-way contract, his breakout Summer League debut has already done something vital — it has reminded the basketball world of the talent that once thrilled Cameron Indoor Stadium. More importantly, it has reminded DJ Steward of who he is.