In the latest NBA mock draft by USA TODAY Sports, three Duke basketball players rank in the top 10.

The Duke Blue Devils have long been a powerhouse in NCAA basketball, known for producing NBA-caliber talent year after year. With the 2025 NBA Draft on the horizon, Duke continues to be a breeding ground for future stars. As college basketball heats up and teams start to solidify their places in the postseason, the NBA Draft picture begins to take shape, and Duke players are once again making waves in the rankings. According to the latest NBA mock draft by USA TODAY Sports, three Duke basketball players have cemented their positions in the top 10, further solidifying the program’s reputation as a pipeline to the NBA.

This article takes a deep dive into the players from Duke who are currently projected to be top 10 picks in the upcoming NBA Draft, analyzing their skill sets, potential, and what makes them stand out in the eyes of NBA scouts. We’ll also explore how Duke’s success in developing future pros is influencing the Blue Devils’ program under head coach Jon Scheyer and what it means for the future of the team.

The Three Blue Devils: Who Are They?

Duke has always been synonymous with elite talent, and this year is no exception. Three players from the Blue Devils are currently ranked in the top 10 of USA TODAY Sports’ latest NBA mock draft. Each of these players brings a unique set of skills and qualities to the table, and their potential at the next level is incredibly high. Let’s take a closer look at each of them.

1. Cooper Flagg – Projected No. 1 Overall Pick

Cooper Flagg, a 6-foot-8 forward, has been regarded as one of the most highly anticipated prospects in college basketball since he first began making waves on the national stage. His all-around game, particularly his defensive versatility and shot-blocking ability, has drawn comparisons to NBA stars like Kevin Durant and Giannis Antetokounmpo. Flagg’s size, length, and basketball IQ make him a potential game-changer in the NBA, and he has the ability to impact both ends of the court with equal proficiency.

Flagg’s defensive prowess is his standout feature. As one of the best shot-blockers in high school and now at the collegiate level, Flagg possesses the ability to alter shots without necessarily having to jump out of his comfort zone. He can guard multiple positions, protect the rim, and disrupt passing lanes with his long arms and quick reflexes. His offensive game is also a work in progress, but his ability to stretch the floor with his shooting, combined with his court awareness and unselfishness, makes him a well-rounded player who can contribute in a variety of ways.

What sets Flagg apart from other top prospects is his mental toughness and maturity. Despite being only a freshman, Flagg has shown an incredible ability to handle pressure and perform when the stakes are high. His work ethic and desire to continuously improve have led many scouts to believe that he is one of the most polished young prospects to enter the NBA in recent memory.

The fact that Flagg is currently projected as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft speaks to the immense talent and potential he possesses. Teams in need of a dynamic, two-way player who can be an immediate contributor are salivating at the thought of adding him to their roster.

2. Jared McCain – Projected No. 6 Overall Pick

Jared McCain, a 6-foot-3 guard, has been another standout player for Duke this season. Known for his scoring ability, McCain has emerged as one of the top offensive threats in the country. His combination of scoring, playmaking, and leadership has put him squarely on the NBA radar. McCain is the type of player who can take over a game offensively, whether it’s through his ability to drive to the basket, hit from beyond the arc, or create plays for his teammates.

McCain’s skill set is particularly attractive to NBA teams looking for a scoring guard with the ability to also distribute the ball. His three-point shooting ability is a huge asset, as he has consistently knocked down perimeter shots with a high level of accuracy. Additionally, McCain’s athleticism and quickness make him a formidable player both on and off the ball, allowing him to exploit mismatches and create offensive opportunities in transition.

What makes McCain even more intriguing to NBA scouts is his defensive potential. While he’s primarily known for his offensive game, McCain’s quick feet and strong instincts make him a capable defender who can guard multiple positions. His ability to disrupt passing lanes and provide help defense will only enhance his value at the next level.

At No. 6 in the mock draft, McCain has solidified himself as one of the top guard prospects available in the 2025 NBA Draft. His all-around game and upside have caught the attention of NBA teams, and he is expected to make a significant impact once he enters the league.

3. Tyrese Proctor – Projected No. 9 Overall Pick

Tyrese Proctor, a 6-foot-5 guard from Australia, is another Duke player who has climbed into the top 10 of USA TODAY Sports’ NBA mock draft. Proctor’s blend of size, skill, and versatility makes him a unique prospect in this draft class. His ability to run an offense, make plays for others, and score from all areas of the court has made him one of the more well-rounded players in college basketball.

Proctor’s basketball IQ and court vision are among his greatest strengths. He has an innate ability to read the game and make the right decisions, whether it’s finding an open teammate or scoring on his own. His passing and playmaking ability are exceptional, and he’s capable of running an offense efficiently. Proctor’s shooting, especially from beyond the arc, has improved significantly, and his ability to space the floor gives him a lot of value as a guard in the modern NBA.

Defensively, Proctor has the size and length to be effective at the next level. He can guard both backcourt positions and has shown the ability to defend on and off the ball. His length and athleticism make him a valuable asset in the pick-and-roll game and in transition.

At No. 9 in the mock draft, Proctor is one of the most well-rounded guard prospects in the 2025 class. His combination of size, skill, and basketball intelligence makes him an intriguing option for NBA teams looking for a versatile player who can contribute both offensively and defensively.

Why Duke Players Are Dominating the Top 10 NBA Draft Projections

The fact that three Duke players are projected to be top 10 picks in the 2025 NBA Draft speaks volumes about the program’s success in developing NBA-ready talent. Under head coach Jon Scheyer, Duke has continued to uphold its reputation as one of the premier programs in the country, with a focus on developing players who can transition seamlessly to the professional level. The Blue Devils’ commitment to player development, combined with their high-profile recruiting class, has helped them maintain their place at the forefront of college basketball.

Jon Scheyer has done an excellent job of continuing the legacy left by legendary coach Mike Krzyzewski. Scheyer has proven himself as a recruiter and developer of talent, and his ability to get the most out of players like Flagg, McCain, and Proctor has been a testament to his coaching acumen. By giving these players the platform to showcase their skills in the highly competitive environment of the ACC and in the national spotlight, Scheyer has allowed them to develop and refine their games in ways that will make them NBA-ready.

Additionally, Duke’s success in producing NBA talent has made it an attractive destination for top recruits. As long as Duke continues to recruit at an elite level, it’s likely that more top-tier prospects will continue to emerge from the program and find success in the NBA. With players like Flagg, McCain, and Proctor leading the charge, Duke’s status as a basketball powerhouse is secure, and the future looks incredibly bright for the Blue Devils.

What It Means for the 2025 NBA Draft

The presence of three Duke players in the top 10 of the 2025 NBA Draft is a clear indication that the Blue Devils will once again be a major factor in the draft process. NBA teams looking to add talent in the coming years will undoubtedly be keeping a close eye on Flagg, McCain, and Proctor, as all three possess the skills and potential to make an immediate impact at the next level.

For Duke, this success in the NBA Draft only adds to the program’s prestige. The Blue Devils have a rich tradition of developing top-tier talent, and the fact that three players are projected to be top 10 picks is further proof of the program’s dominance. It also shows that the Blue Devils are well-positioned to continue their success in both college basketball and the NBA, making them a program to watch for years to come.

As the 2025 NBA Draft approaches, all eyes will be on Duke’s top prospects as they make their case for why they belong in the top 10. The Blue Devils’ ability to produce NBA talent year after year ensures that their legacy will continue to grow, and the future of both the program and these players is incredibly bright.