Duke Basketball Sets Pace in 2025 NBA Mock Draft with Five Projected Picks

This year’s draft class has widely been regarded as top-heavy, with significant uncertainty beyond the first two picks. Still, Duke’s representation across the board from the projected No. 1 overall pick to mid-second round selections demonstrates the program's depth and player development under head coach Jon Scheyer.

Flagg Leads a Questionable Draft Class

At the top of the board is freshman Cooper Flagg, whose impact in his lone college season has been nothing short of transformative. Winner of the John R. Wooden Award and a focal point of Duke’s tournament run, Flagg is projected to go No. 1 overall to the Washington Wizards.

“Flagg isn’t quite at the Victor Wembanyama level of prospect over the last 20 years, but he belongs in the Anthony Davis tier,” Vecenie wrote, pointing to his skill versatility, competitive edge, and NBA-ready physical tools.

In a draft where few prospects are considered sure things beyond the top two selections, Flagg stands out as a rare franchise-caliber player.

Supporting Cast with Lottery Potential

Fellow freshmen Kon Knueppel and Khaman Maluach also appear in the lottery range. Knueppel, who averaged 14.4 points per game and shot efficiently from beyond the arc, is projected sixth overall to the Philadelphia 76ers. His shooting profile and ability to play off the ball make him a natural fit at the next level.

Maluach, a 7-foot-2 center with Olympic experience for South Sudan, lands at No. 12 to the Chicago Bulls. His length and efficiency (87% FG in the NCAA Tournament’s early rounds) offer raw tools that could translate well with further development.

Veteran Talent Still Drawing NBA Interest

Duke’s upperclassmen are also making appearances in the draft conversation. Junior Tyrese Proctor, who posted a career-high 12.4 points per game, is projected 37th to the Detroit Pistons. Senior Sion James, who transferred from Tulane and brought two-way value to Duke’s rotation, is slated at No. 47 to the Milwaukee Bucks.

Both players offer NBA teams experience and a steadier floor than many late-round prospects.

Lottery Will Shape the Draft’s Outcome

The 2025 NBA Draft begins June 25, but May 12’s lottery draw may prove to be the most consequential date of the year. With Flagg viewed by many as the lone surefire franchise cornerstone, landing the No. 1 pick could alter the course of an organization’s future. For now, Duke has positioned itself not only as a college basketball powerhouse but as a driving force in shaping the NBA’s next generation.