Kyle Filipowski Dominates in Las Vegas as Former Duke Big Man Showcases Skill, Growth, and NBA Potential in Summer League Action
Two-year Duke basketball standout Kyle Filipowski made waves in Las Vegas this summer, turning heads with his performance during NBA Summer League play. For those who followed his college career closely, the showing was less a surprise and more a confirmation of everything he demonstrated during his time in Durham. Prolific, polished, and increasingly versatile, Filipowski made the most of the opportunity, using the Las Vegas stage to display the complete package that made him one of college basketball’s most intriguing big men over the past two seasons.
From the moment Filipowski stepped onto the court in Las Vegas, there was a noticeable buzz. At 7 feet tall with impressive mobility and a refined offensive game, he immediately stood out—even among the talented pool of NBA hopefuls. He played with a noticeable confidence and a calm maturity, suggesting he had taken full advantage of his time at Duke to prepare for the next level. The way he carried himself—never rushed, never overextending—spoke to both his high basketball IQ and his well-earned comfort in high-pressure situations.
Throughout the Summer League, Filipowski consistently delivered. Whether scoring with soft touch around the rim, knocking down mid-range jumpers, stretching the floor with the occasional three-pointer, or facilitating offense with sharp passes out of the post, he showed off the full spectrum of his game. His stat lines weren’t just impressive—they were efficient. He didn’t need 20 shots to make an impact. Instead, he found his spots within the flow of the offense and maximized every touch.
But what really stood out in Las Vegas wasn’t just the box score. It was the versatility. Filipowski looked equally comfortable playing in the post or drifting out to the perimeter. He set hard screens, rolled effectively, popped when needed, and showed off a budding pick-and-pop game that NBA scouts have been hoping to see. His footwork, always solid at Duke, appeared even more refined. He used pivots and fakes like a veteran, often getting defenders off balance before finishing with either hand.
Defensively, Filipowski also made noticeable strides. While not a shot-blocking machine in the mold of traditional rim protectors, he demonstrated a strong understanding of positioning, timing, and help defense. He rotated quickly, challenged shots vertically without fouling, and held his own in isolation situations against quicker forwards. His ability to switch onto guards in limited moments and still contest effectively hinted at a level of lateral quickness that could prove valuable in the NBA’s switch-heavy defensive schemes.
One particular game in Las Vegas turned heads among analysts and fans alike. Facing off against a team with multiple first-round picks, Filipowski finished with 18 points, 9 rebounds, and 4 assists, including a highlight-reel coast-to-coast play that showcased his underrated ball-handling skills. That moment sparked conversation on social media about just how high his ceiling might be at the next level. Commentators praised not only the stats, but the poise and awareness he displayed throughout the contest.
Much of what Filipowski displayed in Las Vegas was cultivated during his two standout seasons at Duke. As a freshman, he burst onto the college basketball scene with a unique blend of size, skill, and tenacity. He led the team in scoring and rebounding, becoming a focal point on both ends of the floor. That season earned him ACC Rookie of the Year honors and a place on multiple All-American watchlists. Many assumed he would declare for the NBA Draft after just one year. But Filipowski surprised many by returning for his sophomore campaign.
That decision—though questioned by some at the time—looks wise in hindsight. The second year allowed him to address certain critiques in his game, most notably his outside shooting and defensive consistency. He came back stronger, more agile, and noticeably more confident. He also took on more of a leadership role, helping a young Duke team mature over the course of the season. By the end of his sophomore year, Filipowski had cemented himself as one of the most complete big men in the college game.
Las Vegas, then, was the next logical step. And while Summer League performances don’t always translate into NBA success, they do offer an important early benchmark for players transitioning from college to the pros. In Filipowski’s case, the transition seemed to be happening smoothly. Coaches praised his professionalism, his work ethic, and his ability to quickly adapt to the NBA pace. He rarely looked out of place. More often than not, he looked like one of the best players on the court.
Off the court, Filipowski’s demeanor also drew praise. Reporters noted his thoughtful answers in interviews, his team-first attitude, and his willingness to stay late after games to talk with younger players or fans. These may seem like small details, but in a league where character and locker room presence matter as much as talent, they do not go unnoticed. Filipowski wasn’t just making a case for minutes—he was making a case for being a foundational piece for a franchise looking to develop a winning culture.
As the Summer League wrapped up, discussion turned to where Filipowski fits long-term in the NBA. Some see him as a modern stretch five—a center who can space the floor, pass well, and hold his own defensively. Others believe he might find success as a hybrid four, pairing with a more traditional center in dual-big lineups. The truth is, Filipowski’s versatility gives his coaches options. He can play different roles depending on matchups and roster needs, making him a valuable chess piece in today’s positionless game.
What’s clear is that Filipowski is no longer flying under the radar. He’s firmly on the radar of NBA coaches and executives, and his Las Vegas performance only added fuel to the fire. If he continues on this trajectory, he could earn a regular rotation spot as a rookie—a rarity for second-round picks or late first-rounders, depending on where he lands on a roster. His skill set, maturity, and adaptability are all pointing in the right direction.
And for Duke fans, watching Filipowski flourish in Las Vegas brought a sense of pride. He represented everything the program strives to instill—discipline, competitiveness, and a love for the game. Even in the NBA environment, those values were visible in the way he played. He remained calm during runs, communicated constantly with teammates, and never took a play off. That kind of motor doesn’t just happen overnight. It’s forged in programs like Duke’s, where every practice and possession matters.
Looking ahead, Filipowski still has areas to refine. He’ll need to continue improving his lateral quickness and defending elite NBA athletes. He’ll need to tighten his handle under pressure and maintain consistency from deep range. But these are all within reach, especially considering his work ethic and trajectory so far. Summer League might have been the first test, but it won’t be the last. Training camp, preseason, and eventually the grind of an 82-game season will challenge him in new ways.
Still, the early returns are promising. Filipowski not only survived Las Vegas—he stood out. And for a player once considered a borderline first-rounder, that kind of breakout performance can change narratives. He’s no longer just “the Duke big man with a good touch.” He’s a legitimate NBA prospect with a skill set tailored for the modern game.
Filipowski’s journey from college standout to professional contributor is far from over, but the foundation has been firmly laid. What’s most exciting is the sense that he’s only scratching the surface of what he can become. The skill, the smarts, the size—it’s all there. Now, it’s about putting it together on the biggest stage, night in and night out.
If his Las Vegas performance is any indication, Kyle Filipowski is ready for the challenge. And if he continues to grow the way he has over the past two years, there’s little doubt he’ll become more than just an NBA player. He has a real shot at becoming a mainstay—a player who not only makes it but thrives. And for Duke fans, that’s just one more reason to keep watching.
