Duke University’s basketball program continues to cement its reputation as a breeding ground for NBA talent. According to ESPN’s Jonathan Givony, seven Blue Devils have been ranked among the top 50 prospects for the 2025 NBA Draft in his latest Big Board update. This impressive showing highlights Duke’s rich pool of talent, from surefire lottery picks to promising second-rounders.
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At the forefront of this list is the phenomenal freshman Cooper Flagg. At just 17 years old, Flagg has already captured the attention of scouts and fans alike, solidifying his spot as the consensus No. 1 pick. But he’s not the only Blue Devil making waves. Two other Duke rookies, Kon Knueppel and Khaman Maluach, are projected lottery picks, while four additional players round out Duke’s strong representation on the Big Board.
Cooper Flagg: The Future of the NBA
Cooper Flagg’s name is at the top of nearly every draft board, and for good reason. Standing at 6-foot-9 and weighing 205 pounds, the versatile guard/forward has been nothing short of spectacular in his debut season for Duke.
Flagg leads the Blue Devils with 15.9 points, 9.0 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.4 blocks per game. These numbers are even more impressive considering his age—he’s the only 17-year-old in NCAA history to record multiple games with at least 20 points and 10 rebounds. His court vision, scoring ability, and defensive instincts make him a generational talent and the centerpiece of Jon Scheyer’s squad.
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As Duke’s most dominant player this season, Flagg has been instrumental in their 8-2 record and No. 4 national ranking. His maturity, both on and off the court, has scouts labeling him a surefire superstar in the making.
Duke’s Dynamic Lottery Duo: Kon Knueppel and Khaman Maluach
Beyond Flagg, Duke boasts two more lottery-caliber talents in Kon Knueppel and Khaman Maluach. Knueppel, a 6-foot-7, 217-pound guard/forward, is projected at No. 6 overall. Known for his scoring versatility and high basketball IQ, Knueppel has been a reliable offensive weapon for the Blue Devils. His ability to create plays and hit clutch shots makes him a coveted prospect for NBA teams looking for a dynamic wing player.
Meanwhile, Khaman Maluach, a towering 7-foot-2 center from South Sudan, is slotted at No. 9. Maluach’s size and skill set are tailor-made for the modern NBA. At 250 pounds, he’s a physical presence in the paint but also showcases surprising agility and a soft shooting touch. His rim protection and rebounding make him a defensive anchor, while his growing offensive arsenal hints at All-Star potential.
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Second-Round Gems: Proctor, Evans, Foster, and James
Duke’s talent extends beyond the lottery, with four players projected as second-round picks in Givony’s rankings. Junior guard Tyrese Proctor leads this group at No. 43. Proctor’s experience and ability to lead the team in critical moments have made him a key figure in Duke’s rotation. His playmaking and defensive capabilities have caught the attention of scouts, making him a valuable second-round steal.
Freshman Isaiah Evans comes in at No. 45. The 6-foot-6 guard/forward is a raw but exciting prospect, known for his athleticism and scoring ability. With more development, Evans has the tools to become a significant contributor at the next level.
Sophomore Caleb Foster, ranked No. 47, has shown flashes of brilliance this season. His ability to shoot from beyond the arc and facilitate the offense makes him an intriguing prospect for NBA teams in need of backcourt depth. Graduate guard Sion James rounds out Duke’s representation at No. 50. A steady veteran presence, James’ basketball IQ and defensive skills make him a valuable addition to any roster.
Duke’s NBA Pipeline: A Legacy of Excellence
Duke’s success in producing NBA-ready talent is no accident. Under head coach Jon Scheyer, the program has continued to attract top recruits and develop their skills for the professional level. The Blue Devils’ ability to balance individual development with team success is evident in their performance this season, including a dominant 72-46 win over Incarnate Word earlier this week.
The Blue Devils now turn their attention to their upcoming game against George Mason, where they’ll look to extend their four-game winning streak. With Flagg, Knueppel, and Maluach leading the charge, Duke fans have plenty to be excited about—not just for this season but for the future of their stars in the NBA.
Duke’s Seven NBA Prospects: A Testament to Its Basketball Dynasty
Having seven players ranked among the top 50 draft prospects is a remarkable achievement, even for a powerhouse like Duke. It speaks to the program’s continued excellence and its ability to adapt to the evolving demands of basketball. Whether it’s Flagg’s all-around brilliance, Knueppel’s scoring prowess, or Maluach’s towering presence, Duke’s talent pool is as deep as ever.
As the 2025 NBA Draft approaches, all eyes will be on these Blue Devils as they look to make their mark not only in the NCAA but also in the professional ranks. Duke’s legacy as a basketball factory is alive and well, and this crop of stars is ready to carry that torch forward.
