Duke University’s junior guard, Tyrese Proctor, has etched his name into NCAA Tournament history with an extraordinary display of three-point shooting, propelling the Blue Devils into the Sweet 16 and solidifying his legacy in March Madness.
Unprecedented Three-Point Accuracy
In the opening two rounds of the 2025 NCAA Tournament, Proctor showcased remarkable precision from beyond the arc. Against Mount St. Mary’s, he connected on 6-of-8 three-point attempts. He followed this performance with a near-perfect 7-of-8 from deep in Duke’s 89-66 victory over Baylor, culminating in a career-high 25 points. This achievement marked the highest three-point shooting percentage (.875) by a Duke player in an NCAA Tournament game, surpassing Bobby Hurley’s 6-of-7 (.857) performance against Southern Illinois in 1993.
Record-Breaking Streak
Proctor’s 13 made three-pointers over these two games set a new Duke record for the most in the first two rounds of the NCAA Tournament. Additionally, he became the first Duke player since 2010 to hit five or more threes in back-to-back tournament games, a feat last accomplished by current head coach Jon Scheyer.
Overcoming Early-Season Struggles
Earlier in the season, Proctor faced challenges with his three-point shooting, including an 0-for-10 slump. His recent performances highlight a significant turnaround, demonstrating resilience and dedication to improvement.
Impact on Duke’s Tournament Run
Proctor’s sharpshooting has been instrumental in Duke’s offensive dominance, contributing to their efficient scoring and securing a spot in the Sweet 16. His ability to stretch defenses has opened opportunities for teammates, making the Blue Devils a formidable contender in the tournament.
Looking Ahead
As Duke prepares for their Sweet 16 matchup against Arizona, Proctor’s continued excellence from beyond the arc will be crucial. His recent performances have not only rewritten the record books but also set a high standard for the Blue Devils as they pursue championship glory.
Tyrese Proctor’s historic three-point shooting streak has captivated fans and solidified his place in NCAA Tournament lore, exemplifying the impact a dedicated athlete can have on the grand stage of March Madness.