Seven Blue Devils Earn All-ACC Academic Team Distinction
The Duke men’s basketball program has once again proven that its excellence extends far beyond the basketball court. In a proud moment for the program, seven Duke Blue Devils have earned the prestigious honor of being named to the 2024–25 All-ACC Academic Men’s Basketball Team, reflecting the university’s deep-rooted commitment to developing true student-athletes. This accomplishment is not only a significant individual honor for the players involved, but it also further cements Duke’s legacy as one of the nation’s premier programs in both athletics and academics.
In a modern college basketball landscape where the spotlight often falls solely on high-profile games, draft projections, and NIL deals, Duke’s continued emphasis on academic integrity stands out as a pillar of pride. This recognition highlights how seriously the program takes the term “student-athlete” and serves as an inspiration to prospective recruits, fans, and institutions nationwide.
The Honorees
Let’s take a closer look at the seven Duke student-athletes who earned this recognition, each of whom demonstrated academic diligence alongside athletic dedication.
Tyrese Proctor – Junior, Guard
Tyrese Proctor, an international standout from Australia, has become a cornerstone of the Blue Devils both on and off the court. A two-time All-ACC Academic Team honoree, Proctor has showcased consistency in every area of student-athlete life. As a top-tier playmaker and one of the most intelligent floor generals in the ACC, his ability to balance rigorous coursework with the responsibilities of being a high-usage player speaks volumes about his work ethic.
Academically, Proctor has maintained a high GPA while managing travel, practice, and a grueling ACC schedule. His leadership qualities—often discussed in basketball circles—are also visible in the classroom where he’s respected by faculty and peers alike.
Caleb Foster – Sophomore, Guard
Also earning All-ACC Academic Team honors for the second straight year, Caleb Foster has quickly carved out a reputation as both an explosive guard and a model student. Known for his relentless drive and maturity beyond his years, Foster’s performance in the classroom mirrors the composure and discipline he brings to the basketball court.
His successful transition from high school to college-level academics while contributing meaningful minutes for the Blue Devils is indicative of the support system Duke provides and the personal standards Foster holds himself to.
Mason Gillis – Graduate, Forward
Transferring to Duke from Purdue, Gillis brought experience, physicality, and leadership to Durham. As a graduate student, he has exemplified what it means to be a true scholar-athlete. Already holding an undergraduate degree, Gillis is now pursuing graduate coursework while playing a pivotal role in Duke’s frontcourt.
His inclusion on the All-ACC Academic Team underscores how he’s embraced Duke’s academic expectations in full stride. Gillis’s presence in the locker room, combined with his academic accolades, has made him an indispensable mentor to younger players.
Sion James – Graduate, Guard
One of the most distinguished academic achievers on the roster, Sion James earned not only a spot on the All-ACC Academic Team but was also honored nationally as a CSC Academic All-District® selection and CSC Academic All-America® Second Team member.
A transfer from Tulane, James entered Duke with a reputation for intellectual curiosity and character. His contributions this season went beyond box scores—James’s classroom excellence and his community service involvement have made him one of the most well-rounded players in the country. The Blue Devils are fortunate to count him among their ranks.
Cooper Flagg – Freshman, Forward/Guard
Perhaps the most well-known name on the list due to his basketball prowess, Cooper Flagg has already become a household name in college basketball circles. But Flagg’s early inclusion on the All-ACC Academic Team highlights another side of the highly touted freshman: his commitment to being a complete student-athlete.
Despite the intense media attention and expectations as the No. 1 recruit in the 2024 class, Flagg has kept his focus in the classroom. Balancing a demanding academic load with national spotlight duties is no small feat, and Flagg’s achievement offers reassurance that his greatness extends beyond highlights and stat lines.
Kon Knueppel – Freshman, Guard/Forward
Much like Flagg, freshman Kon Knueppel has wasted no time making a positive impression. The Milwaukee native is praised by coaches and professors alike for his maturity, curiosity, and grounded approach to college life.
Knueppel’s academic achievement complements his early-season contributions on the court, showcasing that he too is living up to Duke’s tradition of excellence in every sphere. His coachability and humility translate seamlessly into his approach to learning, helping him stand out among his peers.
Khaman Maluach – Freshman, Center
Rounding out Duke’s seven honorees is Khaman Maluach, the towering 7-footer from South Sudan whose potential has scouts buzzing. But even as he adjusts to a new country, language, and competitive environment, Maluach has impressed Duke’s academic staff with his dedication to learning and self-improvement.
Maluach’s journey—from war-torn East Africa to one of the most prestigious academic and athletic institutions in the world—is nothing short of inspirational. His spot on the All-ACC Academic Team adds another chapter to a remarkable personal story of resilience and excellence.
Duke’s Legacy of Academic Success
The 2024–25 season marks the 31st consecutive year that Duke men’s basketball has had at least one selection to the All-ACC Academic Team. This is not a coincidence. It is the result of a deliberate institutional culture that prioritizes academic excellence and personal development. With these latest seven honorees, Duke now boasts a conference-leading 120 total selections to the All-ACC Academic Team—a milestone that no other ACC school has matched.
This record is reflective of head coach Jon Scheyer’s leadership and the foundational values established by his predecessor, Mike Krzyzewski. Both coaches have emphasized holistic development, believing that success in academics fosters mental discipline, character, and long-term achievement.
Academic Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the All-ACC Academic Team, players must meet stringent criteria:
- A minimum GPA of 3.0 for the most recent semester
- A cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher
- Participation in at least 50% of the team’s contests
This ensures that the award recognizes true student-athletes who are consistently engaged in both academic and athletic responsibilities.
A Model for the Modern Student-Athlete
Duke’s consistent academic accolades are especially impressive in today’s NCAA environment, where athletes juggle intense competition, NIL deals, media obligations, and social pressures. The program has embraced this complexity, using dedicated academic support staff, mental health resources, and personalized mentorship programs to ensure that players remain grounded and goal-oriented.
Academic advisor Bob Weiseman, who has worked closely with Duke basketball for years, said, “These young men deserve every bit of this recognition. They’re staying up late after road trips to finish papers, managing group projects around film sessions, and still showing up ready to play. That’s the Duke way.”
Reactions from the University and Fans
The news of seven Blue Devils making the All-ACC Academic Team has sparked praise from Duke alumni, students, and fans across the country.
University President Vincent Price commented, “This is a proud moment for our university. These student-athletes exemplify the best of Duke: they are driven, curious, resilient, and deeply committed to academic and athletic excellence.”
On social media, fans chimed in:
“We always knew Duke had brains and ballers—this just proves it again.”
“Proud of these guys! It’s not just about NBA dreams—it’s about becoming great men.”
What This Means for the Future
Duke’s success in producing All-ACC Academic honorees isn’t just a badge of honor—it’s a recruiting advantage. Prospective student-athletes and their families often look beyond basketball when making college decisions. For families that value education, Duke’s long-standing commitment to academic integrity is a major selling point.
Moreover, as professional sports leagues increasingly value character, coachability, and off-court preparation, having a background of academic excellence can give Duke players an edge beyond college.
The recognition of seven Duke Blue Devils on the 2024–25 All-ACC Academic Men’s Basketball Team is a celebration of the enduring excellence and balanced philosophy that define the Duke basketball program. These athletes are not just preparing for NBA careers—they are preparing for life.
With strong leadership, top-tier institutional support, and players who embody the ideal of the scholar-athlete, Duke continues to set the gold standard in college basketball.
In a time when the term “student-athlete” is often met with skepticism, Duke is living proof that success in both arenas is not only possible—it’s expected.
