After briefly entering the transfer portal and sparking speculation about her next move, Vanessa de Jesus has officially decided to return to Duke for her final season—and her reason couldn’t be more heartfelt.
“This is the only place I feel at home,” de Jesus shared in a message to fans. “I needed time to reflect, but deep down, I knew my story at Duke wasn’t finished.”
The graduate point guard has been a steady leader for Coach Kara Lawson’s program, known for her court vision, calm under pressure, and fierce competitiveness. Following a knee injury that sidelined her during the 2023-24 season, de Jesus bounced back with a strong showing this past year, becoming a key contributor both on and off the floor.
Her short-lived departure left a void, but her return brings renewed energy and leadership to a Duke squad already building momentum.
“She’s the soul of our team,” Lawson said. “Vanessa’s decision to stay is a testament to the culture we’ve built. She believes in this program—and we believe in her.”
As Duke retools for another run in the ACC, de Jesus’s return signals more than just a roster addition. It’s a reunion between a player and a program she calls family.
For Vanessa de Jesus, Duke isn’t just where she plays—it’s where she belongs.
