Duke NBA Draft Update
As the 2025 NBA Draft approaches, Duke University continues to solidify its reputation as a premier pipeline for NBA talent. This year, the Blue Devils boast a remarkable group of prospects, headlined by freshman phenom Cooper Flagg, with several other players projected to be selected in the first and second rounds. Let’s delve into the latest updates on Duke’s top NBA Draft hopefuls.
Cooper Flagg: The Consensus No. 1 Pick
Cooper Flagg, a 6’9″ forward from Newport, Maine, has been the talk of the basketball world. After a stellar freshman season at Duke, where he averaged 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game, Flagg earned numerous accolades, including National College Player of the Year and ACC Player of the Year .
Flagg’s combination of size, skill, and basketball IQ has NBA teams salivating. He’s widely projected to be the No. 1 overall pick, with the Dallas Mavericks holding the top selection after defying 1.8% odds in the draft lottery . If selected by Dallas, Flagg would join fellow Duke alumni Kyrie Irving and Dereck Lively II, potentially forming a formidable trio.
Khaman Maluach: Rising into the Lottery
Khaman Maluach, a 7’2″ center from South Sudan, has seen his draft stock soar in recent months. Known for his defensive prowess and rim protection, Maluach is now projected as a potential top-five pick, with the New Orleans Pelicans showing interest at the No. 7 spot .
Maluach’s athleticism and shot-blocking ability make him an intriguing prospect for teams seeking a defensive anchor in the paint. His rapid development at Duke has scouts envisioning a high ceiling at the professional level.
Kon Knueppel: Sharpshooter Climbing the Ranks
Freshman guard Kon Knueppel has impressed scouts with his shooting touch and basketball IQ. Standing at 6’6″, Knueppel’s ability to stretch the floor and make smart decisions has propelled him into the lottery conversation. He’s currently projected to be selected before the Atlanta Hawks’ 13th pick, with the Houston Rockets considering him at No. 10 .
Knueppel’s versatility and offensive skill set make him a valuable asset for teams looking to bolster their perimeter play. His performance at the NBA Draft Combine further solidified his status as a top prospect.
Tyrese Proctor: Veteran Presence with Upside
Junior guard Tyrese Proctor brings experience and leadership to the draft class. After a solid season at Duke, Proctor is projected as a second-round pick, with some mock drafts placing him at No. 43 overall .
Proctor’s playmaking ability and defensive tenacity make him an appealing option for teams seeking a reliable backup point guard. His maturity and understanding of the game could allow him to contribute early in his NBA career.
Sion James: Sleeper Prospect with Potential
Graduate guard Sion James is another Duke player garnering attention as the draft approaches. Projected as a late second-round pick at No. 56, James offers size and versatility in the backcourt .
While not as heralded as some of his teammates, James’s work ethic and adaptability could earn him a spot on an NBA roster. Teams looking for depth and defensive prowess in the guard position may take a chance on him.
Duke’s Continued NBA Draft Success
Duke’s presence in the NBA Draft is nothing new. In the 2024 NBA Draft, the Blue Devils saw two players selected: Jared McCain at No. 16 by the Philadelphia 76ers and Kyle Filipowski at No. 32 by the Utah Jazz .
Under head coach Jon Scheyer, Duke has maintained its reputation for developing NBA-ready talent. The program has produced 110 NBA Draft picks all-time, including 56 first-round selections .
