Current Duke Players in the NBA

Duke University has long been a powerhouse in college basketball, producing a plethora of talented players who make a significant impact in the NBA. As of the current 2023/24 NBA season, there are several former Blue Devils showcasing their skills on the professional hardwood. 

Let's take a closer look at the careers of these Duke alumni who are making waves in the NBA.

Kyrie Irving, a former first overall pick, has been a force to be reckoned with since entering the NBA. Known for his dazzling handles and scoring ability, Irving has won an NBA championship with the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2016 and has been a multiple-time All-Star. His move to the Dallas Mavericks has added another dynamic dimension to the team's backcourt.

Selected by the Boston Celtics with the third overall pick in 2017, Jayson Tatum has quickly established himself as one of the league's rising stars. A four-time NBA All-Star, Tatum possesses a versatile skill set, excelling in scoring, rebounding, and playmaking. He continues to be a cornerstone for the Celtics, leading them with his exceptional on-court abilities. Tatum is one of the best duke players in the NBA, if not the best. 

After starting his career with the Los Angeles Lakers, Brandon Ingram has blossomed into a star with the New Orleans Pelicans. The talented forward earned his first All-Star nod in 2020 and has become a focal point of the Pelicans' offense. Ingram's scoring ability, combined with his length and athleticism, make him a matchup nightmare for opponents.

A seasoned veteran, Mason Plumlee has brought his rebounding and shot-blocking prowess to multiple NBA teams. Known for his defensive contributions and basketball IQ, Plumlee provides a valuable presence in the paint. His experience and leadership has made him a valuable asset on all the franchises he’d played for. 

RJ Barrett, a high-flying guard, had established himself as a cornerstone for the New York Knicks. Known for his scoring and playmaking abilities, Barrett evolved into a key contributor for the team. The former Duke standout's tenacity on both ends of the court endeared him to Knicks fans. However, in a recent trade, Barrett has now joined the Toronto Raptors, marking a new chapter in his promising career. Raptors fans eagerly anticipate his contributions as they look towards an exciting future with Barrett on their roster.

Seth Curry, known for his deadly three-point shooting, has carved out a niche as a reliable marksman in the NBA. While he has played for several teams throughout his career, Curry's ability to stretch the floor and provide instant offense has made him a valuable asset. He currently ranks sixth in NBA history in career three-point field goal percentage. 

Gary Trent Jr., a sharpshooting guard, has made a name for himself with the Toronto Raptors. Acquired in 2021 via a trade with Portland, Trent has showcased his scoring ability and defensive tenacity. As a rising star in the league, Trent's future looks bright as he continues to contribute to the Raptors' success.

Tyus Jones, a reliable point guard, has embraced his role as a facilitator and floor general throughout his career. Known for his high basketball IQ and steady playmaking, Jones provides stability to the team's backcourt. His ability to run an offense efficiently has made him an asset in Memphis, and now in Washington. 

Luke Kennard, a versatile wing player, has found a new home with the Memphis Grizzlies. Known for his scoring ability and basketball IQ, Kennard has become a valuable contributor off the bench. His shooting touch and ability to create scoring opportunities add depth to the Grizzlies' roster.

Wendell Carter Jr., a skilled big man, has showcased his rebounding and shot-blocking abilities with the Orlando Magic. Drafted for his defensive prowess, Carter continues to develop his offensive game, providing the Magic with a reliable presence in the paint.

Zion Williamson, the first overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft, has lived up to the immense hype surrounding his entry into the league. A powerful forward with a unique combination of size and athleticism, Williamson has become a focal point for the New Orleans Pelicans. His ability to dominate in the paint and finish around the rim makes him a transcendent talent.

Marvin Bagley III, a highly touted prospect, joined the Detroit Pistons in 2022 to continue his NBA journey. Known for his scoring and rebounding abilities, Bagley brings versatility to the Pistons' frontcourt. As he continues to develop, his impact on both ends of the court will be closely watched.

Grayson Allen, a sharpshooting guard, has found a role with the Phoenix Suns. Known for his scoring and intensity on the court, Allen provides the Suns with a valuable scoring threat off the bench. His ability to stretch the floor and contribute to crucial moments makes him a key asset for the Suns.

Cam Reddish, a promising young talent, joined the Los Angeles Lakers in 2023 to contribute to their championship aspirations. Known for his scoring ability and defensive prowess, Reddish adds depth to the Lakers' roster. As he continues to develop, his impact on both ends of the court will be a key factor for the Lakers.

Paolo Banchero, a recent addition to the NBA, brings a wealth of talent to the Orlando Magic. As a young prospect with a bright future, Banchero's skill set, and potential make him an exciting player to watch. The young starlet also won the NBA Rookie of the Year award in 2023. 

Tre Jones, a promising young point guard, he was drafted by the San Antonio Spurs in 2020. Known for his playmaking ability and defensive tenacity, Jones adds depth to the Spurs' backcourt. As he continues to develop, his impact on both ends of the court will be crucial for the Spurs' future success.

Harry Giles III, a skilled big man, brings versatility to the Brooklyn Nets' frontcourt. Known for his rebounding and shot-blocking abilities, Giles will be hoping to provide the Nets with a valuable presence in the paint after overcoming a season-ending injury in 2022.

AJ Griffin, a young and promising talent, joined the Atlanta Hawks in 2022 to contribute to their bright future. As a versatile player with scoring and defensive abilities, Griffin adds depth to the Hawks' roster. His development will be closely monitored as he continues to grow in the NBA.

Jalen Johnson, a young and dynamic forward, has become part of the Atlanta Hawks' exciting core. Known for his athleticism and scoring ability, Johnson adds versatility to the Hawks' frontcourt. As he continues to develop, his impact on both ends of the court will be crucial for the Hawks' success.

Mark Williams, a young and skilled big man, joined the Charlotte Hornets in 2022 to contribute to their frontcourt. Known for his shot-blocking and rebounding abilities, Williams provides the Hornets with a reliable presence in the paint. 

Dereck Lively II, a recent addition to the NBA in the 2023 draft, brings immense potential to the Dallas Mavericks. As a young and athletic center, Lively's shot blocking and rebounding abilities make him an exciting prospect. His development with the Mavericks will be closely monitored as he adjusts to the professional level.

Wendell Moore Jr., a versatile wing player, has joined the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2022 to contribute to their rotation. Known for his scoring and playmaking abilities, Moore adds depth to the Timberwolves' roster.

Marques Bolden, a talented big man, secured a two-way contract with the Milwaukee Bucks in 2023. Known for his shot-blocking and rebounding abilities, Bolden provides the Bucks with depth in the frontcourt. Yet to make his mark in the NBA, his development within the Bucks' system will be closely monitored as he continues to grow as a player.

Dariq Whitehead, a promising young talent, joined the Brooklyn Nets in 2023 to contribute to their future success. As a versatile player with scoring and defensive abilities, Whitehead adds depth to the Nets' roster. Whilst he is yet to make a splash in the Nets’ starting squad, as a senior in High School he was named ‘player of the year’, showcasing his immense talent and potential. 

Within the illustrious lineage of Duke University's basketball program, numerous players have emerged as invaluable contributors to the NBA. Among these, here are some of the most valued former NBA players that left an indelible mark on both collegiate and professional basketball. 

Grant Hill, an iconic figure in both the college and professional basketball realms, chose Duke University over Georgetown and the University of North Carolina. His decision proved wise as he clinched two NCAA titles during his four years at Duke, leaving an enduring legacy. Despite a career hampered by injuries in the NBA, Hill's seven All-Star selections and eventual induction into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2018 underscore his immense impact on the game.

JJ Redick, renowned for his exceptional shooting, became a Duke standout, earning the consensus Player of the Year in 2006. His remarkable accuracy from the free-throw line and beyond the arc made him one of the most reliable shooters in college basketball. Transitioning to the NBA, Redick continued to showcase his shooting prowess, becoming a postseason mainstay and maintaining remarkable consistency throughout his career. 

Shane Battier, a key player during his time at Duke, led the team to two Final Four appearances, exemplifying his excellence on the college stage. Battier's success continued in the NBA, particularly during his tenure with the Miami Heat, where he played a pivotal role in securing consecutive NBA titles. Beyond his on-court achievements, Battier is regarded as one of the most respected and nicest members of the NBA community.