In the most recent NBA mock draft by The Athletic, all five of Duke’s basketball starters are eliminated.
Duke University’s basketball program has long been a pipeline for NBA talent, and the 2025 NBA Draft is poised to continue this tradition. Recent mock drafts, including those from ESPN and CBS Sports, project all five of Duke’s starters to be selected, highlighting the depth and quality of the Blue Devils’ roster. This article delves into each player’s journey, performance, and draft projection, providing a comprehensive overview of Duke’s impact on the upcoming draft.
Cooper Flagg, a 6-foot-9 forward from Newport, Maine, has been the centerpiece of Duke’s 2024–25 season. Averaging 18.9 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.1 assists, 1.5 steals, and 1.3 blocks per game, Flagg’s versatility and basketball IQ have drawn comparisons to NBA legends like Scottie Pippen and Kawhi Leonard. His shooting efficiency, with a 36.8% success rate from beyond the arc, further cements his status as a top prospect. Flagg’s accolades include National College Player of the Year, ACC Player of the Year, and consensus first-team All-American honors. His leadership propelled Duke to a 31–3 record and an ACC regular-season title.(Wikipedia, Forbes)
The Dallas Mavericks, despite having only a 1.8% chance, secured the No. 1 pick in the draft lottery, leading to widespread speculation and conspiracy theories. Nevertheless, Flagg is widely expected to be their selection, marking the first time a White-American player would be chosen first overall since 1977 .(news, talkSPORT)
Standing at 7-foot-2, Khaman Maluach has been a formidable presence in the paint for Duke. The South Sudanese center averaged 8.8 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per game, showcasing his shot-blocking prowess and mobility. His 7-foot-6 wingspan and defensive instincts have made him a projected lottery pick, with ESPN ranking him as the No. 8 prospect in their draft big board .(ClutchPoints)
Maluach’s journey to Duke is notable; he began playing basketball only five years ago and quickly ascended the ranks, representing South Sudan in the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup at just 16 years old . His rapid development and high ceiling make him an intriguing prospect for NBA teams seeking a defensive anchor.(Wikipedia)
Kon Knueppel, a 6-foot-6 guard/forward, has been a consistent offensive threat for the Blue Devils. Known for his quick release and smooth shooting motion, Knueppel averaged 13.3 points per game, with a notable performance of 25 points and six three-pointers against Miami . His ability to stretch the floor and contribute offensively has positioned him as a mid-first-round pick, with ESPN projecting him at No. 17 to the Oklahoma City Thunder .(The Playoffs, Duke Wire)
Knueppel’s versatility and shooting prowess make him a valuable asset in today’s NBA, where floor spacing and perimeter shooting are highly coveted.
Tyrese Proctor, a sophomore guard from Australia, returned to Duke for a second season to refine his skills and boost his draft stock. His decision paid off, as he averaged 10.2 points, 4.3 assists, and 3.1 rebounds per game, providing leadership and stability in the backcourt. Proctor’s defensive tenacity and playmaking abilities have garnered attention, with ESPN projecting him as the No. 28 pick to the Brooklyn Nets .(Duke Wire)
His international experience and maturity set him apart, offering NBA teams a ready-to-contribute guard with a high basketball IQ.
Freshman guard Caleb Foster has shown flashes of brilliance throughout the season, averaging 9.8 points, 2.7 assists, and 2.5 rebounds per game. His athleticism and scoring ability have placed him on draft radars, with ESPN ranking him 39th on their big board . While still developing, Foster’s potential as a dynamic scorer and playmaker makes him an intriguing second-round prospect.
The projection of all five starters in the 2025 NBA Draft underscores Duke’s reputation as a premier program for developing NBA talent. Under head coach Jon Scheyer, the Blue Devils have continued to attract top-tier recruits and prepare them for the professional level. The 2024–25 season’s success, culminating in an ACC title and a deep NCAA Tournament run, has further solidified Duke’s status.(Forbes)
Looking ahead, Duke’s recruiting pipeline remains strong, with commitments from high-profile prospects ensuring the program’s competitiveness. The seamless transition of players to the NBA not only benefits the individuals but also enhances Duke’s allure to future recruits.
The 2025 NBA Draft is shaping up to be a landmark event for Duke University, with all five starters projected to be selected. From Cooper Flagg’s anticipated No. 1 selection to Caleb Foster’s promising potential, the Blue Devils’ influence on the draft is undeniable. This remarkable feat reflects the program’s commitment to excellence and its pivotal role in shaping the future of basketball.
