Duke Basketball Sets Pace in 2025 NBA Mock Draft with Five Projected Picks
The 2025 NBA Draft is shaping up to be a landmark event for Duke University, with five Blue Devils projected to be selected in the first round. This marks a significant achievement for the program, potentially setting a new record for the most Duke players drafted in a single year. The standout among them is freshman forward Cooper Flagg, widely anticipated to be the No. 1 overall pick. Joining him are fellow freshmen Khaman Maluach and Kon Knueppel, both expected to be top-10 selections. Additionally, guards Tyrese Proctor and Caleb Foster are projected to be first-round picks, while Isaiah Evans is a strong candidate for the second round.
Cooper Flagg has been a dominant force in college basketball this season. Standing at 6’7″, he has showcased exceptional versatility, averaging 21.2 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game. His performances have drawn comparisons to NBA stars like Kevin Durant and Kawhi Leonard. Flagg’s ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor has solidified his status as the consensus No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. (Diario AS)
Khaman Maluach, a 7’2″ center from South Sudan, has been a revelation for Duke. His blend of size, athleticism, and defensive prowess has made him one of the most intriguing prospects in this draft class. Maluach’s ability to guard multiple positions and his improving offensive game make him a valuable asset for any NBA team. (Basketball Insiders)
Kon Knueppel, a 6’7″ wing, has been a standout performer for Duke this season. Averaging 13.2 points per game with a 38.3% shooting percentage from beyond the arc, Knueppel has demonstrated his scoring ability and versatility. His defensive skills and basketball IQ further enhance his appeal as a potential top-10 pick. (Ball Durham)
Tyrese Proctor, a 6’5″ guard, has been a steady presence in Duke’s backcourt. Known for his playmaking ability and defensive tenacity, Proctor has the tools to succeed at the next level. His size and skill set make him an intriguing prospect for NBA teams in need of a versatile guard. (SI)
Caleb Foster, a 6’5″ guard, has impressed with his shooting ability, particularly from beyond the arc. Averaging 40% from three-point range, Foster’s scoring prowess makes him a valuable asset for NBA teams looking to add shooting depth. His potential for growth and development adds to his appeal as a first-round prospect. (SI)
Isaiah Evans, a 6’6″ guard, has emerged as a promising prospect for the 2025 NBA Draft. Known for his three-point shooting, Evans has the ability to stretch the floor and provide scoring off the bench. His development throughout the season has positioned him as a potential second-round pick, with the possibility of moving into the first round depending on team needs and workouts. (Ball Durham)
The prospect of five Duke players being selected in the first round of the 2025 NBA Draft is unprecedented. The current record for Duke is five players drafted in a single year, achieved in both 2017 and 2022. If all five Blue Devils—Flagg, Maluach, Knueppel, Proctor, and Foster—are selected in the first round, it would set a new benchmark for the program. This achievement underscores the depth of talent within Duke’s basketball program and its continued prominence in producing NBA-caliber players.(Duke Basketball Report, Duke Wire)
As the 2025 NBA Draft approaches, the spotlight remains on Duke’s five projected first-round picks. The upcoming draft lottery on May 12 will further clarify team selections, especially for Flagg, whose destination remains uncertain. Regardless of the final draft order, the success of these Blue Devils highlights the strength and future prospects of Duke basketball. Their potential transition to the NBA marks a significant milestone for both the players and the program.(Duke Basketball Report)
