Duke Basketball Alumni Deliver Strong Performances Across NBA Summer League Showcasing Depth, Talent, and Readiness for Next Level
Each year, the NBA Summer League provides an early glimpse into the future of basketball, where rookies, undrafted players, and second-year pros battle for a spot on an NBA roster or secure their place in a rotation. For some, it’s about raw potential; for others, it’s about proving they belong. But for the Duke Blue Devils, Summer League is often a celebration of how deep and consistent the program’s NBA pipeline runs. In the 2025 edition of the Las Vegas Summer League, Duke had another impressive showing with multiple recent graduates and early entrants stepping onto the national stage and making their presence known through notable statistical production and on-court impact.
It wasn’t just the number of Blue Devils in action—it was the quality and consistency of their performances. Duke alumni played across a wide range of NBA teams, bringing with them the polished fundamentals, high basketball IQ, and competitive fire that have defined the program under Mike Krzyzewski and now Jon Scheyer. From first-round picks to undrafted prospects grinding for contracts, these players collectively reflected the strength and depth of the Duke basketball factory.
One of the most talked-about former Blue Devils at Summer League was Kyle Filipowski. Selected in the second round of the 2025 NBA Draft by the Portland Trail Blazers, Filipowski was widely viewed as a potential steal due to his unique skill set for a big man.
In five games, Filipowski averaged 14.8 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game, shooting 45% from the field and 35% from three. What stood out beyond the numbers was his composure and versatility. He served as a pick-and-pop threat, displayed a soft shooting touch from mid-range and beyond, and handled the ball with surprising fluidity for a 6-foot-11 forward. On defense, he held his own in the post and showed a willingness to switch onto wings. Portland’s coaching staff praised his basketball IQ, and it’s clear that he has the inside track on earning early minutes during the regular season.
After declaring for the draft following his sophomore season, Tyrese Proctor joined the Boston Celtics’ Summer League roster. Known for his playmaking and perimeter defense at Duke, Proctor was tasked with running the offense and showing his growth as a scorer.
In four appearances, he averaged 10.6 points, 5.1 assists, and 1.5 steals per game while shooting 47% from the floor and an impressive 41% from three-point range. He looked more decisive and confident than he did in college, particularly when attacking in transition and setting the tone defensively. Proctor’s high-level passing vision made him a favorite among teammates, and his defensive tenacity left scouts optimistic about his potential as a rotational guard.
Lively, who had a strong rookie season with Dallas, returned to Summer League to refine his game further. Though he didn’t need to participate, the coaching staff valued his leadership and defensive anchor presence for a young squad.
In limited minutes across three games, Lively posted 8.2 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks per game, shooting 67% from the floor. His shot-blocking instincts were elite, and his ability to run the floor in transition made him a consistent lob threat. Lively’s improved footwork and communication on defense also stood out, particularly in pick-and-roll coverage. He appears poised to take another leap in his sophomore NBA season.
An under-the-radar name heading into the summer, Mark Mitchell proved to be one of the breakout stories. After going undrafted, Mitchell joined the Miami Heat’s Summer League roster and immediately made an impression with his defense and energy.
In five games, Mitchell averaged 11.4 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 1.3 steals per game while shooting 48% from the field. He played a classic Heat-style role—defending multiple positions, attacking closeouts, and hitting timely corner threes. His motor and willingness to embrace dirty work stood out, and there’s a strong sense that Miami may convert his Summer League success into a two-way or training camp deal.
Veteran Duke guard Jeremy Roach joined the Phoenix Suns’ Summer League team with hopes of earning a roster spot or G-League deal. His four-year college experience gave him an edge in composure and decision-making.
Roach averaged 9.2 points and 3.5 assists per game while maintaining a nearly 4:1 assist-to-turnover ratio. Though not flashy, Roach was steady—organizing the offense, hitting open jumpers, and defending hard-nosed guards on the perimeter. His leadership traits and basketball maturity were praised by Phoenix’s coaching staff, and he remains a strong candidate to land a role in the Suns’ development system.
AJ Griffin used the Summer League as a platform to regain rhythm after dealing with injuries last season. Though his minutes were monitored, he showcased his scoring touch and physicality.
In three appearances, Griffin averaged 13.7 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game on 46% shooting. He looked confident in isolation situations and hit contested jumpers with ease. His frame continues to be NBA-ready, and his footwork on both ends of the court showed improvement. With the Hawks in transition, Griffin appears set to play a larger role this upcoming season.
Moore, who has bounced between the G-League and the NBA, took full advantage of his Summer League opportunity with Minnesota. The third-year pro played with urgency and versatility, looking to solidify a spot in the rotation.
Over four games, Moore put up 12.5 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 2.5 assists while shooting a respectable 50% from the field. He guarded multiple positions, initiated secondary offense, and provided leadership on the wing. Moore’s well-rounded game and defensive versatility remain his calling cards, and he’ll be in the mix as the Timberwolves finalize their roster.
Cassius Stanley entered the 2025 Summer League as a free agent, still pursuing an NBA comeback after spending time in the G-League and overseas. The former high-flyer from Duke flashed his elite athleticism and commitment to team basketball.
In five games with the Utah Jazz Summer League team, Stanley averaged 10.1 points and 3.2 rebounds per game. While his jumper remains inconsistent, he provided energy off the bench, finished highlight-reel dunks, and defended with purpose. Whether Stanley earns an NBA deal remains to be seen, but his athletic ceiling still draws interest from evaluators.
Though not a newcomer, Jalen Johnson returned for brief Summer League action to continue building momentum after a promising second NBA season.
In two games, Johnson averaged 11.0 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game. He displayed improved decision-making and more control in the halfcourt offense. His size and ball-handling continue to make him a matchup problem, and Atlanta hopes he can continue trending upward as a core rotational forward.
Tre Jones, now an established NBA player, played limited minutes but was present to mentor the younger Spurs squad. He didn’t need to prove anything statistically but served as a calming presence and example of professionalism for incoming rookies.
The 2025 NBA Summer League ultimately reinforced one thing above all: Duke Basketball continues to produce high-caliber players who are prepared to adapt, contribute, and lead in professional environments. The wide range of roles played—from budding stars like Filipowski to hard-nosed veterans like Roach—demonstrates the program’s versatility and longevity in developing talent for the next level.
With 10+ Blue Devils participating and several on the verge of securing roster spots or long-term roles, the message is clear. Whether it’s through polished skill sets, competitive fire, or adaptability to coaching, Duke players consistently stand out—not just because of where they come from, but because of how ready they are when they arrive. The legacy continues, and Las Vegas was just another chapter in the story of Duke’s NBA dominance.
