Potential for Another Duke Basketball Talent to Land in Philadelphia
The Philadelphia 76ers have a storied history of integrating Duke University basketball talent into their roster. From Elton Brand, who now serves as the team’s general manager, to recent draftees like Jared McCain, the Blue Devils have consistently made their mark in Philadelphia. As the 2025 NBA Draft approaches, the 76ers hold the No. 3 overall pick, and speculation is rife that they may once again turn to Duke to bolster their lineup.
A Legacy of Blue Devils in Philadelphia
Duke’s influence on the 76ers dates back decades. Elton Brand, a standout at Duke, was the first overall pick in the 1999 NBA Draft and later became a pivotal player for the 76ers before transitioning into his current role as general manager. In 2015, the 76ers selected Jahlil Okafor with the third overall pick, following his national championship win with Duke. More recently, in 2024, the team drafted Jared McCain with the 16th pick, further solidifying the Duke-Philadelphia connection.
Kon Knueppel: A Sharpshooter with Versatility
One of the top prospects drawing the 76ers’ attention is Kon Knueppel, a freshman standout from Duke. Knueppel has showcased exceptional shooting skills, connecting on over 40% of his three-point attempts. Beyond his shooting prowess, he has demonstrated advanced scoring ability, efficiency, and playmaking skills. Averaging 19 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per 40 minutes, Knueppel boasts a 64.2% true shooting percentage and 1.14 points per possession.
While concerns exist about his lack of explosiveness and pull-up shooting, Knueppel’s leadership during Duke’s ACC tournament title run, where he earned MVP honors, underscores his high floor and potential upside. Drawing comparisons to NBA stars like Klay Thompson and Devin Booker, Knueppel is lauded for his work ethic and is projected to be a long-term difference-maker with potential All-Star capabilities.
Khaman Maluach: A Defensive Anchor in the Making
Another Duke prospect on the 76ers’ radar is Khaman Maluach, an 18-year-old freshman center known for his extraordinary physical traits and high ceiling. Standing at 7’2″ with a 7’6.75″ wingspan, Maluach combines elite defensive capabilities, impactful rebounding, and exceptional rim finishing. He averaged 16.2 points, 12.4 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks per 40 minutes, boasting a 71.2% field goal percentage and 73.6% true shooting.
Defensively, Maluach excels in rim protection and pick-and-roll situations, with the potential to anchor an NBA defense. Offensively, he’s a highly efficient lob threat and roller, with soft touch around the basket. While he needs to improve his strength and polish his ball-handling and decision-making, Maluach’s upside as a two-way star makes him one of the draft’s most intriguing prospects.
Strategic Considerations for the 76ers
The 76ers’ decision at the No. 3 pick will hinge on their strategic vision. If they aim to complement their existing core with a sharpshooter, Knueppel’s elite shooting and playmaking abilities make him an attractive option. Conversely, if they prioritize bolstering their interior defense and rebounding, Maluach’s physical attributes and defensive prowess align with those needs.
Additionally, the team’s history of integrating Duke players suggests a comfort level with the program’s talent and development. This familiarity could influence their decision-making process, especially when considering prospects who have thrived under Duke’s system.
As the 2025 NBA Draft approaches, the Philadelphia 76ers are poised to make a significant addition to their roster with the No. 3 overall pick. The potential selection of another Duke standout, whether it’s Kon Knueppel or Khaman Maluach, would continue the franchise’s tradition of integrating Blue Devils into their fold. With both prospects offering unique skill sets that address different team needs, the 76ers’ decision will be pivotal in shaping their future trajectory.
The synergy between Duke’s basketball program and the Philadelphia 76ers remains strong, and the upcoming draft presents another opportunity to reinforce that connection. Whether through sharpshooting prowess or defensive dominance, the next Blue Devil in Philadelphia could play a crucial role in the team’s pursuit of championship glory.
