Durham, N.C. — Duke Basketball has long been synonymous with excellence. From NCAA championships and NBA draft picks to Coach K’s legendary career, the Blue Devils are known for their success on the hardwood. But this season, Duke is also making waves in the classroom.
In a testament to the program’s commitment to developing student-athletes holistically, seven Duke Blue Devils have been named to the 2024–25 All-ACC Academic Men’s Basketball Team. It’s not just about buckets at Cameron Indoor Stadium — it’s about brains, discipline, and the pursuit of excellence in all aspects of life.
A Tradition of Academic Excellence
While Duke is known nationally for its basketball tradition, it is also one of the most prestigious academic institutions in the country. Balancing high-level Division I basketball with rigorous coursework is no easy feat, but for these seven Blue Devils, it’s just part of the job.
The players honored this season are:
- Tyrese Proctor
- Mark Mitchell
- Caleb Foster
- Jared McCain
- Ryan Young
- Sean Stewart
- TJ Power
Each of these student-athletes met the ACC’s criteria of maintaining a GPA of 3.0 or higher over the past academic year while participating in at least half of their team’s contests.
Let’s take a closer look at what makes this group special — both on and off the court.
Tyrese Proctor: The Playmaker and the Philosopher
The Australian-born guard Tyrese Proctor has shown flashes of NBA-ready talent since his arrival in Durham. But while fans know him for his crossovers, clutch threes, and court vision, those inside Duke’s campus also admire his intellectual curiosity.
Proctor, who’s majoring in Public Policy, has expressed interest in global politics and international development. His professors have described him as a “disciplined learner with strong writing skills and a worldly perspective.”
On the court, he averaged 11.5 points and 5.8 assists per game during the 2024–25 season, developing into a true floor general. Off the court, Proctor’s ambition reaches beyond basketball. He’s interned with a nonprofit that supports youth leadership and is involved in Duke’s Global Education Office.
Mark Mitchell: Quiet Leader, Loud Achievements
Sophomore forward Mark Mitchell has earned a reputation as Duke’s do-it-all guy. His defense, rebounding, and hustle kept Duke competitive in key games this season. But beyond his contributions on the floor, Mitchell has quietly built an impressive academic resume.
A psychology major with an interest in sports psychology, Mitchell has spoken about one day wanting to work with young athletes to help them manage the mental pressures of competition.
His ability to juggle intense basketball obligations with coursework in cognitive science and statistics speaks volumes about his maturity. Professors cite his punctuality, curiosity, and leadership in group projects.
Caleb Foster: Freshman Phenomenon with Ivy League Discipline
Caleb Foster’s transition to college basketball seemed seamless. The freshman guard made an immediate impact, showcasing his shooting range, ball-handling, and confidence beyond his years.
But even more impressive than his freshman stat line — 9.8 points and 3.4 assists per game — is his academic mindset. Enrolled in Duke’s Trinity College of Arts & Sciences, Foster took on a rigorous first-year schedule, including courses in economics and cultural anthropology.
His high school academic record was already stellar, and he’s brought that same focus to Duke. He’s even participated in tutoring fellow athletes through Duke’s peer learning program.
Jared McCain: TikTok Star, Scholarly Standout
If Jared McCain wasn’t playing college basketball, he might be a full-time content creator. With millions of followers across social media platforms, McCain is already a household name. But fame hasn’t distracted him from the classroom.
The charismatic freshman guard is studying Sociology with a concentration in social movements and culture. He’s been particularly active in coursework related to race and sports in American society.
McCain’s ability to manage brand partnerships, game-day pressure, and academic obligations is a model for the modern student-athlete. One professor described him as “insightful, engaged, and eager to learn beyond the syllabus.”
He averaged 13.1 points per game while shooting 42% from three-point range, all while attending early morning study halls and leading discussions in seminar settings.
Ryan Young: Graduate Veteran with a Sharp Mind
A transfer from Northwestern and one of the elder statesmen on the Duke roster, Ryan Young is not just a veteran presence on the court but also in the classroom. Currently pursuing a master’s degree in Management Studies through the Fuqua School of Business, Young has excelled in advanced-level coursework.
He’s known around campus for being approachable, often helping underclassmen navigate college life. Young played limited minutes this season but served as a mentor to younger players, bringing his high basketball IQ and calm leadership to every practice and team meeting.
He’s already been accepted into multiple post-graduate internship programs with top consulting firms and may soon be the Blue Devil with the highest corporate ceiling after basketball.
Sean Stewart: The Emerging Star with a Planner
Freshman forward Sean Stewart brought energy and explosiveness to every game he played. Known for his rim protection and high-flying dunks, Stewart is also a student of the game and of life.
Currently undeclared but leaning toward a major in biology or neuroscience, Stewart has a meticulous approach to his schedule. Coaches and academic advisors alike describe him as someone who “plans his week to the minute.”
His attention to detail carries over into his film study and defensive assignments. It’s no surprise he’s on the All-ACC Academic Team — he’s never missed a class, always turns in assignments on time, and has maintained a GPA well above 3.5.
TJ Power: The Balanced Blue Devil
Rounding out Duke’s academic honorees is TJ Power, a freshman known for his versatility and toughness. Whether he’s playing the stretch four role or hitting timely threes, Power always finds ways to contribute.
He’s also making strides in the classroom, exploring courses in Political Science and History. Power is particularly interested in the intersection of athletics and public leadership, inspired by athletes who have used their platforms for social change.
Power helped lead team study groups and was often seen in the library after practices. His dedication and time management are what earned him this spot on the All-ACC Academic Team.
Coach Jon Scheyer: “Proud Beyond Words”
Head coach Jon Scheyer, himself a former Duke star and academic standout, beamed with pride when asked about the announcement.
“We talk about being champions in everything we do — and that starts with the classroom. I couldn’t be prouder of these seven guys. They represent everything that’s great about Duke: hard work, integrity, discipline, and drive,” Scheyer said.
“The way they’ve carried themselves is a model for future Blue Devils. This honor means just as much — if not more — than a spot on an All-ACC Basketball Team.”
A Culture That Values Intelligence
Duke’s consistent presence on the All-ACC Academic Team is no accident. The university invests heavily in its academic support system, including specialized tutors, learning strategists, and individualized academic plans for athletes.
The basketball program, in particular, integrates these resources with its competitive calendar. Study hall is mandatory. Class attendance is monitored. Professors and coaches are in constant communication.
It’s not about compliance — it’s about culture.
Looking Ahead
With many of these academic standouts returning next season, the Blue Devils are poised to continue their tradition of excellence — in both arenas. Proctor, Mitchell, Foster, McCain, and Stewart are all expected to play significant roles in the 2025–26 campaign, and each will be counted on not just for points and rebounds, but for leadership, poise, and example-setting.
In a college sports world often defined by NIL deals, transfer drama, and social media noise, Duke’s seven honorees are a refreshing reminder of what the “student” in “student-athlete” truly means.