Paolo Banchero’s SHOCKING All-Time Duke Starting 5! Did He Leave Someone Out

In a recent appearance on ESPN’s First Take, Orlando Magic forward and former Duke standout Paolo Banchero unveiled his all-time Duke basketball starting five. While his selections sparked intrigue, they also ignited debates among fans and analysts alike. Let’s delve into Banchero’s choices and the discussions they have stirred.

Banchero’s lineup comprises:

• Point Guard: Kyrie Irving
• Shooting Guard: J.J. Redick
• Small Forward: Jayson Tatum
• Power Forward: Zion Williamson
• Center: Jahlil Okafor(Sportskeeda, Duke Basketball Report)

Banchero explained his selections by stating, “I’m going off of what I saw with my own two [eyes]. I watched Zion, I watched Tatum, I watched Jahlil, I watched Kyrie. JJ was around us my year at Duke and he helped us and obviously he’s a Duke legend, so I threw him in there.” (Bleacher Report)

Kyrie Irving (PG): Despite playing only 11 games at Duke, Irving’s exceptional talent and clutch performances left a lasting impression, earning him a spot in Banchero’s lineup.

J.J. Redick (SG): As Duke’s all-time leading scorer, Redick’s sharpshooting and leadership were pivotal during his tenure, making him a logical choice for the shooting guard position.

Jayson Tatum (SF): Tatum’s one-year stint at Duke showcased his scoring prowess and versatility, qualities that have translated well into his NBA career.

Zion Williamson (PF): Williamson’s explosive athleticism and dominance during his freshman year at Duke captivated audiences, solidifying his place in the lineup.

Jahlil Okafor (C): Okafor’s standout freshman season, culminating in a national championship, earned him the center position in Banchero’s five.

While Banchero’s selections are grounded in personal experience, they have not been universally accepted. Former college basketball player and current coach Doug Gottlieb responded to Banchero’s lineup with a succinct “O-5,” indicating his disagreement with the choices. (Sportskeeda)

Critics argue that Banchero’s lineup lacks historical depth, as it predominantly features players from the past two decades. Notably absent are:

• Christian Laettner: A cornerstone of Duke’s early ’90s success, Laettner’s omission has been a point of contention.(Duke Basketball Report)
• Grant Hill: Hill’s contributions during the early ’90s and his subsequent NBA career have cemented his status as a Duke legend.
• Bobby Hurley: As a two-time national champion and one of the program’s all-time assist leaders, Hurley’s exclusion is notable.

Paolo Banchero’s all-time Duke starting five offers a contemporary perspective, reflecting players he personally observed and interacted with. However, the absence of iconic figures from Duke’s rich history has sparked discussions about the criteria for such selections. While Banchero’s choices are valid within his context, they underscore the evolving nature of Duke’s basketball legacy.