What NBA Players played for the Duke Blue Devils?

By Arslan Saleem May 01, 2024 20:06

Duke University has a rich history of producing talented basketball players who have gone on to have successful careers in the NBA. From iconic figures like Kyrie Irving and Grant Hill to emerging stars such as Jayson Tatum and Zion Williamson, the Duke Blue Devils have consistently contributed to the talent pool of the National Basketball Association.

Courtesy of Fan Arch, we'll delve into the journeys of these players from their time at Duke to their impact in the NBA, showcasing their achievements, accolades, and the teams they have represented.

Together, let's explore the remarkable careers of these NBA players who once donned the blue and white for the Duke Blue Devils.

1. Kyrie Irving

Kyrie Irving, a standout point guard, attended Duke University for the 2010-2011 season before embarking on his NBA journey. Known for his exceptional ball-handling skills and scoring ability, Irving was selected as the first overall pick in the 2011 NBA Draft by the Cleveland Cavaliers.

He quickly made an impact in the NBA and eventually secured a championship ring with the Cavaliers in 2016. He currently plies his trade for the Dallas Mavericks, showcasing his prowess as one of the league's premier guards.

2. Jayson Tatum

Jay Smooth. Coming on strong. 🔵😈🏆#HereComesDuke pic.twitter.com/s91rirrRdy
— Duke Men’s Basketball (@DukeMBB) March 5, 2017

Following in the footsteps of his predecessors, Jayson Tatum made a name for himself as a skilled forward during his time at Duke. His impressive performances earned him the third overall pick in the 2017 NBA Draft by the Boston Celtics. Tatum has since emerged as a cornerstone player for the Celtics, displaying a versatile scoring ability and defensive prowess on the court.

3. Brandon Ingram

Brandon Ingram, a talented forward, honed his skills at Duke before being selected as the second overall pick in the 2016 NBA Draft by the Los Angeles Lakers. After showcasing his scoring prowess and versatility, Ingram was later traded to the New Orleans Pelicans, where he continues to make significant contributions to the team's success.

4. Zion Williamson

Zion Williamson, known for his exceptional athleticism and powerful dunks, electrified the college basketball scene during his tenure at Duke. His dominant performances led to him being selected as the first overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft by the New Orleans Pelicans.

Williamson's explosive playing style and highlight-reel dunks have garnered widespread attention, firmly establishing him as one of the most exciting young talents in the NBA.

Other Notable Duke Alumni in the NBA

Aside from the aforementioned players, Duke University has been a breeding ground for numerous other NBA talents. From Mason Plumlee to Gary Trent Jr., these players have demonstrated their skills and competitiveness in the NBA, contributing to the league's rich tapestry of talent.

The list of Duke basketball products in the NBA signifies the university's commitment to developing top-tier basketball talent. The contributions of these players to the NBA underscore the legacy of the Duke Blue Devils' basketball program and its enduring influence on the professional basketball world.

Duke have been instrumental in shaping the NBA by producing exceptional basketball talents who have left an indelible mark on the league.

Their journeys from Duke to the NBA have been characterized by perseverance, skill, and dedication, showcasing the enduring impact of the university's basketball program on the professional basketball landscape.

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