How Gene Banks Helped Build Duke Basketball into a Powerhouse

When people talk about the rise of Duke basketball, they often begin with the dynasty created under Coach Mike Krzyzewski. Names like Christian Laettner, Grant Hill, and Zion Williamson usually take center stage in these conversations. But decades before Duke became a basketball powerhouse, there was a different kind of star—a trailblazer named Gene Banks—whose influence is rarely given the recognition it deserves. His story, though less frequently told, is a critical piece of Duke’s basketball legacy.

Gene Banks came to Duke in the late 1970s, at a time when the program was far from its iconic status. Hailing from Philadelphia, Banks was a standout at West Philadelphia High School and one of the most highly recruited players in the country. He made headlines as the MVP of the first-ever McDonald’s All-American Game, but instead of heading to an already dominant school, he chose to attend Duke—a decision that would begin to alter the course of the program forever. His arrival marked the beginning of a new era, one built not only on talent but also on courage and belief in a greater vision.

From the moment he stepped on the court, Banks made his presence felt. He helped lead Duke to the 1978 NCAA championship game during his freshman season, a remarkable feat for a team that hadn’t seen such success in years. He averaged nearly 17 points and 8 rebounds per game throughout his college career and was named an All-American multiple times. But more than stats and honors, Banks brought a competitive spirit and leadership that transformed Duke from an overlooked program into a serious contender on the national stage.

Banks’ influence wasn’t confined to his performance in games. He played a vital role in making Duke a more inclusive program during a time when elite Black athletes often hesitated to join institutions with predominantly white reputations. By becoming Duke’s first Black All-American, Banks opened the door for future stars like Johnny Dawkins and Grant Hill. His choice to attend Duke—and to excel there—helped reshape the school’s identity and laid the groundwork for the kind of recruitment that would later make Duke a perennial championship threat.

Even though his name doesn’t get mentioned as often as the legends who followed, Gene Banks was the original cornerstone of modern Duke basketball. He may not appear on highlight reels as frequently, but his impact is deeply woven into the fabric of the program. Banks made sacrifices, took risks, and set the standard for those who came after him. His story is one of strength, legacy, and quiet influence—a story that deserves to be told with the same reverence as any buzzer-beater or championship banner.