Former Duke Star Jeremy Roach Set to Begin Pro Career Overseas, Signs With Sea Wolves to Launch New Chapter
Jeremy Roach, the dynamic former Duke Blue Devils guard, is officially embarking on the next chapter of his basketball journey. The 6-foot-2 floor general, known for his leadership, clutch performances, and gritty play during his four years at Duke, has signed with the Rostock Seawolves in Germany’s top-tier professional league, the Basketball Bundesliga (BBL).
The move marks a significant step in Roach’s post-collegiate career, signaling his first professional contract after going undrafted in the 2024 NBA Draft. While many Blue Devil fans had hoped to see Roach land on an NBA roster, his signing with the Seawolves offers both opportunity and promise, especially given the increasingly global nature of the game.
A Pillar at Duke
Roach’s time at Duke was marked by both steady improvement and high expectations. He arrived in Durham as a five-star recruit from Paul VI Catholic High School in Fairfax, Virginia, part of a highly touted 2020 class that also included DJ Steward and Mark Williams. Over his four seasons, Roach evolved from a young, sometimes inconsistent point guard into a battle-tested leader and captain.
In his junior season (2022-23), Roach played a pivotal role in Duke’s run to the ACC Tournament title, averaging 13.6 points and 3.1 assists per game. His performance during the postseason drew praise from analysts and fans alike, with his knack for hitting big shots in crunch time helping define his Duke legacy.
By his senior year, Roach was viewed as the stabilizing force in Jon Scheyer’s backcourt. He embraced a leadership role, mentoring younger guards like Caleb Foster and Jared McCain, while also averaging 14.2 points and 3.5 assists per game. Though the Blue Devils fell short of a Final Four appearance during his tenure, Roach’s individual consistency and resilience were widely respected.
“Jeremy’s been the heartbeat of our program these past few years,” Scheyer said in a statement after Roach announced he was turning pro. “He gave us everything—his effort, his leadership, his passion. I know he’ll succeed wherever he goes.”
Going Undrafted — But Not Overlooked
Despite a productive college career, Roach went undrafted in the 2024 NBA Draft, largely due to concerns about his size, shooting consistency from deep, and defensive versatility against NBA-caliber athletes. However, scouts remained high on his intangibles—his leadership, work ethic, and poise under pressure.
Roach received several Summer League invitations, reportedly working out with the Milwaukee Bucks and the Brooklyn Nets, but ultimately decided to explore professional opportunities overseas. The choice to sign with the Rostock Seawolves reflects a strategic move to grow his game in a competitive environment while gaining international exposure.
The BBL has grown in stature in recent years, producing NBA-level talent and serving as a launching pad for international careers. For Roach, the Seawolves represent a chance to be a featured player in a high-level league, rather than fighting for limited minutes in the NBA’s G-League system.
Meet the Sea Wolves
The Rostock Seawolves, based in the northern German city of Rostock, are an ambitious club in the Bundesliga. Known for their passionate fanbase and up-tempo style of play, the Seawolves have invested in young talent and are aiming to climb the BBL standings in the upcoming season.
Roach is expected to slot in as a starting point guard, with the team looking to him for offensive orchestration and veteran-like poise. His skill set—quick first step, mid-range game, and vocal leadership—should translate well in the BBL, where guard play is crucial and physicality is embraced.
“We’re thrilled to have Jeremy join our family,” said Seawolves head coach Christian Held. “He’s a proven winner with a high basketball IQ and the kind of character we value in this organization. Our fans are going to love watching him compete.”
Reactions from Durham and Beyond
Back in Durham, Roach’s move to Europe has sparked a mix of excitement and nostalgia. Duke fans flooded social media with well-wishes and memories of his iconic performances, particularly his go-ahead bucket against Texas Tech in the 2022 NCAA Tournament and his leadership during ACC play.
Former teammates and current NBA players also voiced their support. Mark Williams, now with the Charlotte Hornets, tweeted, “Big shoutout to my brother Jeremy Roach—go kill it in Germany! Proud of you.”
Roach himself acknowledged the support in a heartfelt Instagram post shortly after the announcement became official. “This Duke journey has been everything to me. I grew as a player and as a man. Now it’s time for the next step, and I couldn’t be more excited to join the Seawolves and chase my dreams overseas.”
He concluded his message with “Once a Blue Devil, always a Blue Devil.”
The Overseas Opportunity
While some may view playing overseas as a detour from the NBA dream, it has become increasingly common for American guards to build their résumés internationally before returning stateside. Players like Patrick Beverley, Mike James, and Facundo Campazzo all took this route—excelling in Europe before landing NBA contracts.
For Roach, the move offers valuable professional experience, exposure to a different style of play, and the chance to be a featured player. If he excels in the BBL, it’s likely NBA scouts will take notice, especially with teams constantly searching for proven, mature guards.
Additionally, the off-court experience of living in Germany could provide Roach with a new perspective and added maturity—traits that NBA general managers increasingly value.
What’s Next?
The Seawolves are set to begin training camp in early September, with Roach expected to join his teammates in Rostock later this month. He’ll have a short window to acclimate to a new system, build chemistry, and adapt to European rules and officiating.
Fans can follow his games through the BBL’s streaming platforms and social media accounts, where the Seawolves frequently post highlights, interviews, and game recaps.
As for Roach’s long-term future, much remains to be written. But if history is any indication, he’s not one to shy away from a challenge.
“Jeremy has always been about growth,” said his high school coach Glenn Farello. “Every level, he’s found a way to rise to the moment. I expect nothing less in Germany.”
Jeremy Roach’s path to professional basketball might not follow the traditional NBA script, but it is uniquely his own. His time at Duke prepared him for adversity, competition, and leadership—traits that will serve him well as he takes on the next level.
From his first game in Cameron Indoor Stadium to his upcoming debut with the Rostock Seawolves, Roach has remained consistent: resilient, fearless, and determined to write his story on his own terms.
And if the past four years are any clue, the best chapters are still to come.
