When the NBA released its official list of invitations to the 2025 Draft Combine, one headline immediately sent shockwaves through the college basketball world: all five Duke Blue Devils starters received invitations. This extraordinary feat marks a significant moment in the program’s storied history and serves as a compelling reflection of the unparalleled depth, talent, and cohesion of the 2024–25 Duke team.
In a sport where elite programs might celebrate one or two players being recognized by the NBA scouting community, for an entire starting lineup to be included is nothing short of remarkable. It speaks volumes not just about individual talent, but about collective success — the seamless fusion of individual brilliance and team chemistry forged under head coach Jon Scheyer’s leadership.
Let’s break down what this historic moment means for the program, the players, and the broader college basketball landscape.
A Rarity in College Hoops
There have been great teams before. Dominant rosters packed with five-star recruits, future lottery picks, and national championship runs. But even among bluebloods like Kentucky, Kansas, and North Carolina, it is exceedingly rare for all five starters to receive NBA Combine invites in the same year.
This achievement puts Duke’s 2024–25 squad in elite company. Not even the legendary 2012 Kentucky Wildcats — who sent six players to the NBA — saw all five of their starters invited to the Combine. And while Duke’s own 1999 and 2001 teams boasted prodigious talent, this year’s milestone is a modern-era testament to holistic player development.
The NBA Combine is more than just a showcase; it’s a gateway. Only 70 to 80 prospects make the cut, often based on a mix of collegiate success, athletic measurables, skillset, and potential upside. For all five Duke starters to be among them is evidence of the program’s sustained commitment to excellence and a player-first culture.
Meet the Fab Five
Let’s take a closer look at the players who’ve earned their golden ticket to Chicago.
1. Caleb Foster – Sophomore Point Guard
Foster’s court vision, perimeter shooting, and tight handle turned heads all season. Stepping up as the primary floor general, Foster posted impressive assist-to-turnover ratios while averaging over 14 points per game. His evolution from a raw freshman to a confident, composed leader in his sophomore campaign is a major reason why Duke remained a top-5 team throughout the year.
His Combine invite reflects his NBA potential as a two-way lead guard. With a smooth shooting stroke and improved decision-making, Foster projects as a first-round talent.
2. Jared McCain – Sophomore Shooting Guard
The fan-favorite and social media sensation took his game to another level in 2025. McCain was Duke’s offensive engine, leading the team in scoring while showcasing elite three-point shooting, rebounding prowess for his size, and an improved defensive motor.
His high basketball IQ and infectious energy made him a favorite not only in Durham but also among scouts. McCain’s Combine performance could solidify him as a lottery pick in what’s considered a deep and dynamic draft class.
3. Mark Mitchell – Junior Small Forward
Perhaps the most versatile of the bunch, Mitchell finally put it all together in his junior year. A Swiss Army knife on both ends of the floor, Mitchell could guard 1-through-5 while adding value as a secondary ball-handler and slasher.
NBA teams love players who can switch everything defensively and stretch the floor offensively, and Mitchell’s consistent improvement year-over-year proved his commitment to refining his craft. He’s the kind of glue guy every NBA roster covets.
4. Sean Stewart – Sophomore Power Forward
The high-flying forward brought energy, rebounding, and highlight-reel dunks night after night. His elite athleticism and rim protection turned him into a defensive anchor for the Blue Devils, and his improved mid-range jumper and pick-and-roll finishing added layers to his offensive game.
While Stewart may still be a work in progress, his ceiling is tantalizing. NBA scouts are intrigued by his raw tools, and the Combine will offer him the platform to boost his stock into the late first or early second round.
5. Kyle Filipowski – Sophomore Center
“Flip” returned for his sophomore season to refine his body and game — and the decision paid off. The 7-footer became one of the most skilled big men in the country, capable of running the floor, initiating offense, and knocking down outside shots. He also significantly improved his post defense and conditioning, addressing key concerns from his freshman scouting reports.
Filipowski is widely projected to be a lottery pick, and his Combine appearance is more a formality than a necessity. He’ll be one of the most scrutinized bigs in the 2025 class.
The Scheyer Effect
When Jon Scheyer took the reins from Mike Krzyzewski in 2022, expectations were sky-high. While succeeding a legend is never easy, Scheyer has steadily carved out his identity — one that emphasizes player development, tactical versatility, and a culture of accountability.
This year’s Combine sweep is a crown jewel in his young coaching career. It affirms his ability to recruit, develop, and prepare NBA-ready talent, while also keeping them engaged in the college game long enough to mature. He’s creating a pipeline that isn’t just about one-and-done flashes but about sustainable growth and cohesion.
Under Scheyer, players aren’t merely auditioning for the NBA; they’re competing for titles, sharpening their skills, and becoming smarter, more complete professionals.
A Blueprint for Recruiting Success
Duke’s unprecedented feat has major implications for recruiting.
Every top-tier high school prospect wants two things: to win and to make the NBA. This season proves they can do both at Duke. With NIL opportunities flourishing and the transfer portal transforming the landscape, today’s recruits are savvier than ever. They recognize programs that can provide real development — not just exposure.
By sending all five starters to the Combine, Duke sends a message loud and clear: Come to Durham, and we’ll get you there — the right way.
Team Success = Individual Recognition
It’s no coincidence that this group is coming off a deep NCAA Tournament run and a 30-win season. When players commit to team success, individual accolades follow. Duke’s balanced offense, suffocating defense, and unselfishness created the perfect storm where every starter could shine.
In games where McCain struggled, Foster stepped up. When Stewart battled foul trouble, Filipowski carried the interior load. Mitchell’s intangibles elevated the team’s defensive ceiling. The synergy was real — and NBA front offices noticed.
This balance often mirrors what’s expected at the pro level, where players must sacrifice for the greater good. Duke’s starters enter the Combine not just as talented individuals, but as teammates who have already proven they can thrive in a system.
Looking Ahead: A New Era Begins
With all five starters likely headed to the pros, Duke faces a rare clean slate next season. But thanks to elite recruiting and the ever-active transfer portal, the cupboard is far from bare. The 2025 incoming class features multiple five-stars, and several talented underclassmen remain ready to step into bigger roles.
While there will be growing pains, Duke’s brand remains as strong as ever. The Combine storyline only enhances its national prestige.
NBA Combine: What Comes Next
As the Combine begins in Chicago, all eyes will be on how these five Blue Devils perform.
- McCain and Filipowski aim to lock in lottery status.
- Foster and Mitchell will seek to climb draft boards through interviews, drills, and scrimmages.
- Stewart will hope his athletic metrics and flashes in scrimmages will make a late push.
Scouts, GMs, and media alike will follow every movement — every jump, drill, and interview.
But no matter how they perform, their invitation already says it all.