Five Duke basketball players—along with a new transfer—are included in The Athletic’s latest NBA mock draft.

The 2025 NBA Draft is shaping up to be a landmark event for Duke University, with multiple players from the Blue Devils’ roster projected to make significant impacts at the professional level. From the consensus No. 1 pick to promising underclassmen, Duke’s pipeline continues to produce elite talent.(FOX Sports)

🏀 Top Prospects

1. Cooper Flagg – Forward

• Projected Pick: No. 1 overall to the Brooklyn Nets(FOX Sports)
• Overview: Flagg has been a standout in the 2025 draft class, known for his versatility, basketball IQ, and leadership. He led Duke to an ACC Regular Season title, showcasing his all-around game with impressive scoring, rebounding, and playmaking abilities. Flagg’s performance against top-tier teams solidified his status as the top prospect in the draft. (Wikipedia)

2. Kon Knueppel – Wing

• Projected Pick: No. 6 overall to the Brooklyn Nets(Ball Durham)
• Overview: Knueppel emerged as one of the biggest draft risers among freshmen, averaging 13.2 points per game with a 38.3% shooting percentage from beyond the arc. His defensive prowess and ability to drive to the basket make him a well-rounded prospect. Scouts have noted his underrated passing skills, ranking him as the third-best pick-and-roll player in this draft class. (Ball Durham)

3. Khaman Maluach – Center

• Projected Pick: No. 7 overall to the Chicago Bulls(Sportskeeda)
• Overview: Standing at 7’2″, Maluach’s combination of size, length, and athleticism makes him an intriguing prospect. He has the ability to guard multiple positions and has shown flashes of offensive potential. His defensive instincts and shot-blocking ability are areas that have drawn significant attention from NBA scouts. (Ball Durham)

4. Tyrese Proctor – Guard

• Projected Pick: No. 40 overall to the Philadelphia 76ers(SI)
• Overview: After returning to Duke for his junior season, Proctor has developed into one of the best guards in the nation, averaging 12.0 points per game with career-high shooting percentages. His leadership on and off the court has been instrumental in Duke’s success this season. Proctor’s ability to excel in a leadership role has enhanced his draft stock. (Ball Durham)
• Projected Pick: No. 46 overall to the Washington Wizards (via Detroit Pistons)(Ball Durham)
• Overview: James, a transfer from Tulane, has been one of the most impactful guards in the nation. Standing at 6’6″ and 220 pounds, he combines elite defensive capabilities with exceptional court vision. His assist-to-turnover ratio and shooting efficiency have made him a valuable asset for Duke. (Ball Durham)

6. Isaiah Evans – Guard

• Projected Pick: No. 50 overall to the Cleveland Cavaliers(Ball Durham)
• Overview: Evans has emerged as one of the best three-point shooters in the country, boasting a 45.5% shooting percentage from beyond the arc. His length and shooting ability make him an intriguing prospect, though his defensive skills are an area for development. Evans’ potential as a sharpshooter could make him a valuable addition to any team. (Ball Durham)

Duke has bolstered its roster with the addition of five-star recruit Shelton Henderson. Henderson’s commitment strengthens Duke’s 2025 recruiting class, adding depth and talent to an already impressive roster. His skills and potential will contribute to Duke’s continued success in the upcoming season. (Zagsblog)

Duke’s representation in the 2025 NBA Draft underscores the program’s continued excellence in developing professional talent. With multiple players projected to be selected in the first and second rounds, Duke is poised to make a significant impact on the NBA landscape. The upcoming draft will be a testament to the program’s commitment to excellence and player development.