Since Grayson Allen, Sion James is the first basketball player from Duke to receive this accolade.
Sion James has achieved a significant milestone in Duke basketball history by becoming the first Blue Devil since Grayson Allen to earn Academic All-American honors. This recognition highlights James’s exceptional performance both on the court and in the classroom during his lone season with the Blue Devils.
Background and Transition to Duke
Born on December 4, 2002, in Sugar Hill, Georgia, Sion James attended Lanier High School, where he showcased his basketball talents, averaging 14.6 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 5.3 assists per game as a junior. He committed to play college basketball at Tulane University, where he played from 2020 to 2024. During his senior season at Tulane, James averaged 14.0 points, 5.4 rebounds, 2.7 assists, and 1.2 steals per game, shooting 51.4% from the field and 38.1% from three-point range.
In May 2024, James transferred to Duke University, aiming to contribute to the Blue Devils’ pursuit of their sixth national championship. His defensive versatility, standing at 6 feet 6 inches and weighing 220 pounds, added depth to Duke’s lineup. Head coach Jon Scheyer praised James’s ability to guard multiple positions, noting that it was not a mismatch regardless of whom he was defending.
Academic and Athletic Excellence
James’s commitment to excellence extended beyond basketball. He was named an Academic All-American, an honor he shares with former Duke player Grayson Allen, who received the same recognition during the 2015–2016 season citeturn0search1. This achievement underscores James’s dedication to his studies and his ability to balance the demands of being a student-athlete.
On the court, James made an immediate impact for the Blue Devils. He quickly earned a starting role, contributing significantly to Duke’s defensive efforts and providing leadership throughout the season. His strong defense, leadership, effective three-point shooting, and dedication both on and off the court left a lasting impression on the program
Legacy and Future Prospects
Although James’s time at Duke was brief, his contributions were noteworthy. His performance has led to discussions about his future in professional basketball, with mentions of potential NBA draft prospects and team tryouts. Additionally, his leadership qualities and court awareness have prompted speculation about his potential future as a coach
Sion James’s achievement of being named an Academic All-American places him in esteemed company, joining the ranks of former Duke players like Grayson Allen. His dedication to excellence in both academics and athletics has left a lasting impact on the Duke basketball program.
