Experts Agree: Cedric Coward, Duke’s Latest Commitment, Should Be Among the First 30 Picks in Upcoming Draft.

The world of college basketball is no stranger to underdog stories, but few are as compelling as the journey of Cedric Coward. From starting his career in Division III basketball to becoming a coveted prospect in the NBA draft, Coward’s rise to prominence has been one of the most remarkable stories in recent years. Following his commitment to Duke, many experts now agree that Cedric Coward is one of the top players to watch in the 2025 NBA Draft, with some even predicting that he could be one of the first 30 players off the board.

At 6-foot-9, with a 7-foot-2 wingspan, Coward possesses the physical tools that NBA scouts dream of. Combined with his impressive skill set, which includes scoring, playmaking, and defense, Coward has emerged as a standout player despite relatively limited exposure in college basketball. As a result, his recent commitment to Duke only adds fuel to the fire, positioning him as one of the most exciting prospects in the upcoming draft. Here’s a closer look at how Coward went from Division III to becoming a potential lottery pick and what makes him such an intriguing player for NBA teams.

A Humble Beginning: Cedric Coward’s Path to College Basketball

Cedric Coward’s basketball journey began in a less-than-traditional setting. Unlike many of his peers, Coward didn’t play at a nationally recognized high school program or a prestigious prep school. Instead, he honed his skills at the Division III level, where he initially played for Eastern Washington University. While the school may not be known for producing NBA talent, Coward was a standout player, showing glimpses of the raw potential that would later attract the attention of elite programs.

It was at Eastern Washington that Coward began to develop his all-around game. His ability to score in various ways—whether it be through mid-range shooting, driving to the basket, or hitting from deep—quickly became one of his trademarks. However, it wasn’t just his scoring that turned heads. Coward’s size and athleticism, particularly his impressive wingspan, gave him an edge on the defensive end. His versatility allowed him to guard multiple positions, and his shot-blocking ability made him a nightmare for opposing players around the rim.

Despite his success at Eastern Washington, Coward knew that to achieve his ultimate goal of playing in the NBA, he would need to compete at a higher level. After his time with Eastern Washington, Coward made the decision to transfer to a more competitive program, which led him to Washington State University.

The Transfer to Washington State: A Platform for Growth

The transfer to Washington State was a turning point in Coward’s career. At Washington State, he was able to showcase his skills in a Power 5 conference, where the level of competition was far greater than what he had experienced in Division III basketball. It didn’t take long for Coward to prove that he belonged among the elite players in college basketball. His play for the Cougars earned him recognition as one of the top forwards in the Pac-12, and his all-around game quickly drew the attention of NBA scouts.

During his time at Washington State, Coward improved significantly in all areas of his game. His scoring became more efficient, his passing more refined, and his defense even more menacing. He was able to show that he could not only fill the stat sheet but also contribute to winning in crucial moments. His growth at Washington State put him firmly on the NBA radar, and by the time his sophomore season ended, Coward had established himself as a player capable of competing at the next level.

However, as impressive as Coward’s growth at Washington State was, it was his decision to transfer to Duke that would truly launch him into the national spotlight.

Commitment to Duke: The Next Step in Coward’s Journey

Cedric Coward’s commitment to Duke in the summer of 2025 was a seismic event in the college basketball world. Duke, one of the most storied programs in the history of college basketball, is known for developing NBA talent, and their decision to bring Coward into the fold speaks volumes about his potential. The Blue Devils’ coaching staff, led by head coach Jon Scheyer, has long had an eye for talent, and they see Coward as a player who could make an immediate impact at the collegiate level.

For Coward, the move to Duke represents a golden opportunity. At a school with a rich history of success, he will have the chance to play alongside some of the best young talent in the country. More importantly, playing at a program like Duke will give Coward the exposure he needs to further elevate his draft stock. With the national spotlight on him, there’s little doubt that Coward’s play in Durham will be closely watched by NBA teams.

Why Experts Believe Coward Should Be Among the First 30 Picks

As Cedric Coward prepares for his upcoming season with Duke, many experts believe that he has a legitimate chance of being selected in the first 30 picks of the 2025 NBA Draft. Here are several reasons why NBA scouts and analysts are so high on Coward’s potential.

Physical Tools and Versatility

One of the first things that stands out about Cedric Coward is his physical profile. Standing at 6-foot-9 with a 7-foot-2 wingspan, Coward possesses the kind of length and athleticism that NBA teams crave. His size allows him to play both forward positions, and his ability to switch defensively makes him a valuable asset in today’s positionless basketball landscape. In an era where teams are looking for players who can contribute on both ends of the floor, Coward’s versatility is a huge plus.

Defensively, Coward’s wingspan and agility allow him to guard multiple positions, from smaller wings to larger big men. His shot-blocking ability is also a key strength, making him a potential game-changer on defense. In addition to his defensive skills, Coward’s offensive game has continued to evolve. He can stretch the floor with his three-point shooting, and his ball-handling ability allows him to create for himself and others. These traits make him a highly sought-after prospect for NBA teams looking for a player with two-way potential.

High Basketball IQ

Beyond his physical tools, Coward’s basketball IQ is one of his strongest attributes. He has an innate understanding of the game and knows how to make the right decisions on both offense and defense. Whether he’s reading defenses, making the right pass, or knowing when to attack the basket, Coward has consistently demonstrated an ability to impact the game in a smart and efficient way. His court vision and playmaking skills are rare for a player of his size, and they give him an edge over many of his peers in the draft.

Proven Success at the College Level

Although Coward’s career has been somewhat unconventional, his success at every level of competition speaks for itself. After an impressive stint in Division III, Coward was able to make a seamless transition to the Division I level, where he continued to improve and thrive. His ability to excel at Washington State in the Pac-12 further validated his potential as an NBA prospect. Now, with his move to Duke, Coward has the opportunity to showcase his skills in the ACC, one of the most competitive conferences in college basketball.

His consistent improvement over the years, combined with his strong performances in high-pressure situations, has made him a reliable and high-upside prospect. NBA scouts value players who can step up in big moments, and Coward has demonstrated the ability to do so.

What’s Next for Cedric Coward

With his commitment to Duke, Cedric Coward’s NBA prospects have never looked better. His performance with the Blue Devils in the 2025 season will be crucial for solidifying his place among the top picks in the upcoming draft. If he can continue to develop his game under the tutelage of Coach Jon Scheyer and perform well in the ACC, Coward’s draft stock could rise even further.

NBA teams will be keeping a close eye on Coward’s development. If he continues to refine his skills and make strides in his game, there’s no doubt that he has the potential to be a first-round pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. His blend of size, athleticism, skill, and versatility make him an intriguing prospect, and his meteoric rise from Division III to NBA prospect is a testament to his hard work and dedication.

Cedric Coward’s story is one of perseverance, growth, and untapped potential. From his humble beginnings in Division III to his breakout performances at Washington State and subsequent commitment to Duke, Coward’s rise has been nothing short of remarkable. Experts are now unanimously agreeing that Coward has the talent and upside to be one of the first 30 picks in the 2025 NBA Draft.

As he prepares for his time at Duke, all eyes will be on Cedric Coward as he continues to develop and refine his game. If his time with the Blue Devils lives up to expectations, Coward could soon find himself living out his dream of playing in the NBA—a dream that seemed distant just a few years ago but is now firmly within reach.