How Each Player Performed in College and What They Bring to the NBA
DURHAM, NC — The 2025 NBA Draft etched a new chapter in college basketball history as all five starters from the Duke Blue Devils’ 2024–25 men’s basketball team were selected. Under the leadership of head coach Jon Scheyer, Duke’s starting five not only dominated in the NCAA but also proved themselves as NBA-ready talents, showcasing a rare blend of skill, poise, and versatility.
Here is a breakdown of where each Blue Devil was drafted, their college stats, and how they are projected to impact their new teams:
Cooper Flagg – No. 1 Overall Pick, Dallas Mavericks
Position: Forward | Height: 6’9”
2024–25 Stats:
- Points: 19.7
- Rebounds: 8.9
- Assists: 3.2
- Blocks: 2.5
- FG%: 51.4
NBA Impact:
Flagg enters the league with the pressure and promise of a top overall pick. His defensive instincts, advanced shot-making ability, and leadership intangibles make him a foundational piece for Dallas, who is building toward a new era. With Luka Dončić recently traded, Flagg has the opportunity to become the face of the franchise and set the tone on both ends of the court from day one.
Kon Knueppel – No. 4 Overall Pick, Charlotte Hornets
Position: Guard/Forward | Height: 6’6”
2024–25 Stats:
- Points: 16.4
- Rebounds: 5.1
- Assists: 2.4
- 3PT%: 42.7
- FT%: 87.5
NBA Impact:
One of the most efficient scorers in college basketball, Knueppel is a ready-made NBA wing with deep shooting range and excellent feel for the game. He fits naturally next to LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller in Charlotte’s offense. His ability to stretch the floor, move without the ball, and defend wings will allow him to contribute immediately.
Khaman Maluach – No. 11 Overall Pick, Phoenix Suns
Position: Center | Height: 7’2”
2024–25 Stats:
- Points: 9.8
- Rebounds: 7.3
- Blocks: 2.9
- FG%: 58.6
NBA Impact:
Maluach’s elite size and shot-blocking make him one of the most intriguing upside prospects in the draft. Though still developing his offensive game, his defensive timing and rebounding presence will help Phoenix, who lacked rim protection off the bench. He’ll likely develop behind veterans early, but long term, he could be a game-changing presence inside.
Sion James – No. 24 Overall Pick, Charlotte Hornets
Position: Guard/Forward | Height: 6’6”
2024–25 Stats:
- Points: 10.2
- Rebounds: 6.4
- Assists: 4.1
- Steals: 1.8
NBA Impact:
James brings versatility, toughness, and leadership to a young Hornets roster. He defends multiple positions, rebounds well for his size, and makes unselfish decisions. He’s expected to be an immediate rotation player and could develop into a high-level role player who contributes across the board, especially on the defensive end.
Tyrese Proctor – No. 30 Overall Pick, Cleveland Cavaliers
Position: Guard | Height: 6’5”
2024–25 Stats:
- Points: 13.5
- Assists: 6.0
- 3PT%: 38.3
- Turnovers: 1.7
NBA Impact:
Proctor is a poised playmaker with international experience and a mature approach to the game. He’s a steady-handed guard who can run the offense or play off the ball thanks to his shooting. In Cleveland, he projects as a valuable depth piece behind Darius Garland and Donovan Mitchell, with the potential to take on a larger role over time.
Conclusion:
Producing one NBA draft pick is an accomplishment. Producing five—all from the same starting lineup—is historic. Duke’s 2025 draft class not only highlighted individual talent but also the depth and discipline of a team that played together with professionalism and purpose. Each player heads into the NBA with a strong foundation, and together they’ve rewritten what’s possible for a college program.
Jon Scheyer’s Duke is not just about winning games—it’s about preparing young men to lead at the next level. The 2025 NBA Draft proves it.
