Duke’s rising star Isaiah Evans has electrified Cameron Indoor Stadium with his lethal three-point shooting and flair for dramatic moments, and nicknamed “Showtime Slim” the 6’6″ guard/forward carved out a reputation as one of college basketball’s most dangerous sharpshooters despite limited minutes in his freshman campaign.
NBA Communications announced this morning via social media: “DRAFT COMBINE UPDATE: Isaiah Evans (Duke) has withdrawn from the 2025 NBA Draft and will not attend the 2025 NBA Draft Combine.” The announcement ends speculation about the freshman sharpshooter’s immediate future.
Evans’ Top 5 Duke Moments
1. Breakout Performance Against Auburn (December 4, 2024)
Evans announced his arrival on the college basketball scene against No. 2 Auburn with an explosive first half. The freshman connected on six three-pointers before halftime alone, scoring 18 points in one of a Duke freshman’s most memorable shooting displays.
“[Evans] played a very big role in us coming back, and when he hit the threes, the team felt alive. He gave us a lot of energy” teammate Khaman Maluach said after the game. This performance tied for the fourth-most three-pointers in a single game by a Duke freshman in program history.
DRAFT COMBINE UPDATE: Isaiah Evans (Duke) has withdrawn from the 2025 NBA Draft and will not attend the 2025 NBA Draft Combine.
— NBA Communications (@NBAPR) May 11, 2025
2. First Career Start and Career-High Against Florida State (March 1, 2025)
After providing consistent spark off the bench throughout most of the season, Evans earned his first career start against Florida State and delivered his most complete performance. The freshman scored a career high of 19 points to lead No. 2 Duke to a dominant 100-65 victory over the Seminoles.
Evans connected on four three-pointers in this game while maintaining his shooting efficiency in a starting role. He was one of four Blue Devils to finish in double figures, proving he could contribute within the team’s offensive flow rather than simply as an individual scorer.
3. Sharp-Shooting Display at Virginia (February 17, 2025)
Following a scoring drought across several games, Evans rediscovered his shooting touch in spectacular fashion against Virginia. In one of the most efficient displays of his freshman season, he made each of his first five three-point attempts, finishing 6 of 7 overall from the field.
The freshman finished with 17 points in 22 minutes while also contributing defensively with two blocked shots. This performance marked the beginning of a three-game stretch during which Evans would play some of his best basketball of the season, showcasing his mental toughness.
4. Madison Square Garden Spotlight vs. Illinois (February 22, 2025)
Days after his stellar performance against Virginia, Evans shined on basketball’s biggest stage in Madison Square Garden. Against Illinois, he scored a game high of 17 points, including crucial free throws that helped secure the victory for Duke.
Performing at such a high level in “The World’s Most Famous Arena” demonstrated Evans’ potential to thrive under pressure. This game further solidified Evans’ hot streak that began late in the season, proving his Virginia performance wasn’t just a one-game wonder.
5. Career-High Minutes at Miami (February 25, 2025)
Evans continued his three-game hot streak with another fine game at Miami, where he played a career high 26 minutes. He made five three-pointers in the first half alone on his way to 16 points, showcasing both his stamina and ability to maintain efficiency with extended playing time.
The increased minutes represented the coaching staff’s growing trust in Evans. This performance foreshadowed his first start against Florida State just days later as the coaches recognized his improved play and rewarded him with greater responsibility.
KEEP READING: Predicting Duke Blue Devils Starting 5 With The Withdrawal of Isaiah Evans From The NBA Draft
Evans’ decision to come back for his sophomore year gives him a chance to add a little more to his offensive game, apart from the three-point shooting, and hone his overall game. He clearly has room to improve with averages of only 1.1 rebounds and 0.5 assists as a freshman before taking the jump to professional basketball.
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