The Duke Blue Devils have cemented their place in basketball history with a feat that has never been accomplished before—seeing their entire starting lineup selected in the NBA Draft. In what can only be described as a stunning validation of the program’s dominance and development prowess, all five of Duke’s starters heard their names called on draft night, turning a historic moment into a celebration not just for the program, but for college basketball as a whole. The Blue Devils have always been a pipeline to the pros, but this year’s sweep has raised the bar to an entirely new level.
From the moment the college basketball season tipped off, Duke was a team on a mission. Head coach Jon Scheyer, in just his second full season at the helm after taking over from legendary coach Mike Krzyzewski, assembled a squad that blended elite freshman talent with returning stars. Their cohesion, athleticism, and basketball IQ were on full display all season long, culminating in a deep NCAA Tournament run and a top national ranking. But what made this team unique wasn’t just their dominance—it was the individual brilliance of each starter, all of whom proved worthy of the NBA spotlight.
Cooper Flagg, the projected No. 1 pick for months, lived up to every bit of hype surrounding him. A generational talent, Flagg’s combination of size, agility, shooting, and defensive prowess made him a no-brainer top pick. Often compared to Kevin Durant and even LeBron James in terms of potential impact, Flagg’s transition to the NBA is expected to be immediate and explosive. What made his rise even more impressive was his maturity on the court, anchoring Duke on both ends and showing leadership beyond his years.
Joining Flagg in the top five was Kon Knueppel, the silky-smooth wing with a lethal shooting stroke and an unshakable competitive edge. Knueppel dazzled scouts with his three-level scoring ability, court vision, and lockdown defense. His rise to the top of draft boards came as no surprise to those who watched him light up the ACC night after night. Whether he was sinking clutch threes or setting up teammates with precision passing, Knueppel’s all-around game made him a cornerstone for any NBA franchise.
Jared McCain, Duke’s charismatic and energetic point guard, also heard his name called in the first round. Known for his flashy handles and fearless play, McCain was the engine behind Duke’s offense. His ability to push the pace, break down defenses, and hit big shots in crucial moments made him a fan favorite. But beyond the highlights and flair, NBA teams were drawn to his relentless work ethic and his magnetic personality, both on and off the court. McCain’s draft selection was a testament to his growth and versatility throughout the season.
Caleb Foster, another foundational piece of the Blue Devils’ backcourt, solidified his stock with steady performances all year long. A more understated presence compared to some of his teammates, Foster was the glue guy—doing the dirty work, playing tough defense, and delivering when it mattered most. Scouts loved his basketball IQ and unselfish play, making him an ideal role player who can fit into any NBA system. Foster’s selection proved that grit, discipline, and consistency don’t go unnoticed at the highest level.
Rounding out the historic five was center Mark Mitchell, a physical force in the paint with a relentless motor. Mitchell’s rebounding, shot-blocking, and rim-running ability provided Duke with a backbone defensively. Throughout the season, he took on the toughest matchups and never shied away from contact. NBA teams admired his toughness and growth potential, especially as a modern big who can switch on defense and finish strong around the rim. His selection capped off what had already become a surreal night for Duke fans everywhere.
To put this achievement into context, no college basketball program has ever seen all five members of its starting lineup drafted in the same year. While several schools have produced multiple first-rounders or even sent entire squads to the NBA over time, a one-year clean sweep is unprecedented. The Blue Devils not only made history—they shattered it, showcasing the extraordinary depth and talent within their roster.
This milestone also speaks volumes about Duke’s recruiting, coaching, and player development systems. Under Jon Scheyer, Duke has not missed a beat since Coach K’s departure. In fact, this draft class may serve as the defining moment of Scheyer’s young coaching career—a moment that firmly stamps his ability to maintain and even elevate the program’s elite status. Scheyer’s ability to manage egos, distribute playing time, and develop each player’s strengths contributed massively to this historic achievement.
For Duke fans, this draft was more than just a night of celebration—it was a coronation. Watching player after player walk across the stage, shake hands with NBA executives, and don their new team hats was a dream come true. Social media exploded with messages of pride, nostalgia, and hope, as Blue Devil Nation basked in the glow of a night that validated years of recruiting promises and championship aspirations.
The ripple effect of this moment will extend far beyond Durham. Recruits around the country have taken notice. The message is clear—if you want to reach the NBA and be developed at the highest level, Duke is the place to be. High school stars and transfer prospects alike will now view Duke not just as a powerhouse, but as a launchpad. It’s likely that this accomplishment will further solidify Duke’s position atop the college basketball hierarchy and make the Blue Devils even more attractive to the next generation of elite talent.
Meanwhile, NBA franchises that drafted these players are optimistic about the impact they’ll make. From immediate starters to developmental prospects with high ceilings, Duke’s former starters will now begin the next phase of their basketball journey under the brightest lights in the world. And as they enter summer league play and prepare for training camp, they do so armed with the confidence that comes from being part of something historic.
The legacy of this team will be remembered not just for what they accomplished on the court, but for what they represented—a brotherhood, a culture of excellence, and a commitment to greatness. In an era where the transfer portal and one-and-done rule have changed the college basketball landscape, Duke managed to build a cohesive unit that played for each other, grew together, and achieved something no team ever has.
There will be documentaries, tributes, and endless “where were you” moments as fans recall the 2025 NBA Draft. The night Duke turned five college stars into professional athletes in one historic sweep. The night Durham took over the draft. And the night college basketball changed forever.
As the NBA season looms, eyes will now shift to see how these five young stars transition into the pros. Can they replicate their collegiate chemistry at the next level? Will one emerge as Rookie of the Year? Or will all five carve out unique roles that echo their time at Duke? No matter the outcome, their journey will always be linked to a single, unforgettable draft night.
For the Blue Devils, history has been written in bold blue ink—and it’s just the beginning.
