Duke Basketball Leads the Charge in the 2025 NBA Mock Draft, With Five Players Projected to Be Selected

As the 2025 NBA Draft approaches, it is clear that the Duke Blue Devils are once again making their presence felt in the world of professional basketball. With five players projected to be selected in the draft, Coach Jon Scheyer’s program is poised to continue its legacy as one of the premier basketball factories in the country. The Blue Devils’ dominance in recruiting and player development has allowed them to maintain a consistent pipeline to the NBA, and the 2025 draft is shaping up to be a testament to that legacy.

In recent years, Duke has produced some of the most promising young talents in the NBA, from Zion Williamson to RJ Barrett and, most recently, Paolo Banchero. The 2025 NBA Draft could be one of the best yet, with the Blue Devils’ roster brimming with potential. While the names on this list may not be as familiar as those of some of the program’s past stars, the 2025 class is loaded with elite talent ready to make an impact at the next level. Let’s break down the players who are expected to hear their names called during the first round of the 2025 NBA Draft, and why Duke continues to lead the charge.

The Power of Duke’s Player Development System

Before diving into the individual players, it’s important to understand why Duke has consistently been a force in producing NBA-ready talent. Under the leadership of legendary head coach Mike Krzyzewski, and now Coach Jon Scheyer, Duke has built a reputation as a program that develops players not just for college basketball but also for the NBA. The program’s emphasis on fundamental skills, intense competition, and exposure to high-pressure situations ensures that players are prepared to succeed at the professional level.

In recent years, the NCAA has seen an influx of young talent—players who spend just one year in college before heading to the pros. While this model has been criticized by some, Duke has been able to navigate it better than most programs. Their ability to attract top-tier recruits who are eager to improve their draft stock is a testament to the program’s national appeal and winning pedigree.

Now, with the 2025 NBA Draft approaching, it’s clear that Duke’s legacy of producing future stars remains strong. Let’s take a look at the five players who are expected to be drafted and what makes them special.

1. Tyrese Proctor – Projected No. 1 Overall Pick

Perhaps the most highly anticipated player in this year’s draft class is Tyrese Proctor, a dynamic guard who has rapidly risen through the ranks during his time at Duke. Proctor has been on the NBA radar for several years now, and with his combination of size, skill, and basketball IQ, it’s not hard to see why he is projected to be the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.

Standing at 6’5” with a versatile game, Proctor is the type of player that can contribute in multiple ways. He’s an elite ball handler with the vision to run an offense, but also possesses the ability to score efficiently from anywhere on the court. Whether it’s creating for others or scoring on his own, Proctor has all the tools to be a franchise cornerstone. His defense has also improved considerably, making him a two-way player with immense upside.

Proctor’s success at Duke, combined with his ability to perform under pressure, has made him one of the most sought-after prospects in recent memory. His decision to play for Duke has paid off, and now he’s poised to become the next great Blue Devil to shine in the NBA.

2. Kyle Filipowski – Projected Top-5 Pick

Filipowski, a powerful forward with an impressive blend of size and skill, has established himself as one of the best players in college basketball. The 6’10” forward is known for his rebounding prowess, shot-blocking ability, and versatility on offense. He is capable of stretching the floor with his three-point shooting and has a solid post game that will make him a valuable asset for any NBA team.

While Filipowski’s offensive game is impressive, it’s his work ethic and defensive capabilities that have NBA scouts excited. His tenacity on the glass and ability to guard multiple positions make him an ideal fit for modern NBA basketball. He’s the kind of player who can contribute immediately, which is why he’s expected to be selected in the top five of the 2025 draft.

Filipowski’s development under Coach Scheyer has been impressive, and his ability to transition his game to the professional level will be a key factor in his success. Whether it’s as a stretch-four or a traditional big man, Filipowski has the potential to make an immediate impact at the NBA level.

3. Mackenzie Mgbako – Projected Top-10 Pick

Mgbako, a high-flying forward who brings tremendous athleticism to the floor, has been one of the most exciting players in college basketball. Standing at 6’8”, Mgbako has the length and mobility to guard multiple positions while also providing a spark offensively with his ability to attack the rim, score in transition, and hit perimeter shots.

Mgbako’s stock has continued to rise as he has proven that he can impact the game in various ways. He is an explosive athlete who thrives in fast-paced systems, but he’s also capable of performing in half-court sets. His versatility makes him an appealing option for NBA teams looking for a dynamic forward who can play multiple roles.

If Mgbako can continue to improve his consistency from the perimeter and refine his decision-making, he could be a potential lottery pick. His upside as a versatile wing who can guard multiple positions makes him a perfect fit for modern NBA offenses.

4. Jaden Schutt – Projected First-Round Pick

Jaden Schutt, a sharpshooting guard with tremendous range, is another Blue Devil who has caught the attention of NBA scouts. Schutt’s ability to stretch the floor with his three-point shooting makes him an enticing prospect, particularly in a league where shooting is a premium skill. Standing at 6’5”, Schutt has the size and skill set to be a valuable contributor as a shooting guard or even as a wing player who can space the floor.

While Schutt has made a name for himself as a scorer, his defense and playmaking ability are areas that have improved over his time at Duke. His development into a well-rounded player has made him an intriguing prospect for NBA teams that are in need of shooting and scoring depth.

Schutt may not have the same level of hype as some of his teammates, but his shooting ability alone makes him a lock for the first round. If he can continue to develop his all-around game, he has the potential to be a major contributor at the next level.

5. Dereck Lively II – Projected First-Round Pick

Lively is a center who has been turning heads with his impressive shot-blocking ability and rebounding prowess. Standing at 7’1”, Lively possesses the length and mobility to protect the rim and disrupt opposing offenses. His defense and presence in the paint are elite, but Lively is also working to improve his offensive game, particularly his ability to finish at the rim and contribute in pick-and-roll situations.

Lively’s physical attributes make him a unique prospect, and his potential to be a game-changer on the defensive end of the floor will attract NBA teams looking for a defensive anchor. While his offense is still a work in progress, Lively’s ability to impact the game with his defense and rebounding alone makes him an intriguing first-round pick.

The 2025 NBA Draft promises to be another strong year for Duke Basketball, with five players projected to be selected in the first round. With talent like Tyrese Proctor, Kyle Filipowski, Mackenzie Mgbako, Jaden Schutt, and Dereck Lively II, Duke is once again showing why it remains at the top of college basketball. These players not only have the potential to succeed in the NBA, but they also represent the culmination of the Blue Devils’ commitment to developing top-tier talent year after year.

As Coach Jon Scheyer continues to build on the legacy left by his predecessor, Mike Krzyzewski, Duke Basketball will remain a force to be reckoned with both in college basketball and the professional ranks. With such a talented group of players heading to the NBA, it’s clear that the Blue Devils will continue to dominate the draft and maintain their position as one of the premier programs in college basketball.