Tyrese Proctor’s decision to return to Duke University for his junior season was influenced by several pivotal factors, including a desire for personal growth, overcoming past challenges, and a commitment to team success.
Overcoming Adversity and Personal Growth
During his sophomore year, Proctor faced significant challenges, notably an ankle injury that sidelined him for part of the season. Reflecting on these experiences, he stated, “The way I ended last year wasn’t how I wanted it to end… I was just trying to battle through adversity.”This period of hardship became a source of motivation for Proctor, fueling his determination to return stronger and achieve the goals he had set for himself and his team.
Commitment to Team and Leadership
Proctor’s bond with Duke’s head coach, Jon Scheyer, played a crucial role in his decision to stay. Scheyer became emotional when discussing their relationship, noting, “Tyrese — I took over in April (2022), and Tyrese and I had a call May 31 to come a year early.” This deep connection and mutual respect underscored Proctor’s commitment to the team’s vision and his role as a leader within the squad.
Pursuit of Team Success
Proctor’s return was also driven by a collective ambition to achieve greater success with the Blue Devils. His leadership and performance were instrumental in guiding Duke to the Sweet 16 in the NCAA Tournament, exemplifying his impact on the team’s accomplishments. Reflecting on the journey, Proctor emphasized the importance of resilience and unity, stating, “It’s why I came back here.”