Duke has a long history of producing elite basketball players, particularly those who spent only one season with the Blue Devils before declaring for the NBA Draft. These “one-and-done” players made important contributions during their brief college stints.
The Best One-and-Done Players in Duke History
Jared McCain (2023-2024)
Guard Jared McCain demonstrated his scoring skills throughout the 2023-2024 season, averaging 14.3 points per game. His excellent shooting accuracy, including a 41.4% three-point success rate and an 88.5% free-throw percentage, helped Duke reach the NCAA Tournament’s Elite Eight.
Following his outstanding season, McCain declared for the 2024 NBA Draft.
Kyle Filipowski (2023-2024)
During his freshman year, Forward Kyle Filipowski has shown flexibility and a strong presence on the court. His continuous performance throughout the 2023-2024 season greatly aided the team’s victory, prompting his choice to enter the 2024 NBA Draft.
Paolo Banchero (2021-2022)
Paolo Banchero contributed significantly to the 2021-2022 season, averaging 17.2 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game. His all-around performance earned him the ACC Rookie of the Year award, and he was selected first overall in the 2022 NBA Draft.
Trevor Keels (2021-2022)
Trevor Keels, a guard, contributed considerably during his rookie season, averaging 11.5 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 2.7 assists. His defensive brilliance and perimeter movement propelled Duke to the Final Four, then he declared for the 2022 NBA Draft.
Jalen Johnson (2020-2021)
Jalen Johnson’s brief stint at Duke was memorable. He averaged 11.2 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 2.2 assists in 13 games before opting out for the rest of the season to prepare for the NBA Draft. He was chosen 20th overall in the 2021 NBA Draft.
Vernon Carey Jr. (2019-2020)
Center Vernon Carey Jr. dominated the paint in 2019-2020, scoring 17.8 points and 8.8 rebounds per game. His achievements won him the ACC Rookie of the Year award and a spot in the second round of the 2020 NBA Draft.
Cassius Stanley (2019-2020)
Cassius Stanley is known for his speed and highlight-reel dunks, with a freshman season average of 12.6 points and 4.9 rebounds. After a year, he entered the 2020 NBA Draft and was taken in the second round.
Zion Williamson (2018-2019)
Zion Williamson’s amazing performance during the 2018-2019 season enthralled the basketball world. With an average of 22.6 points and 8.9 rebounds per game, his speed and highlight-reel performances earned him the Naismith College Player of the Year award and the first overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft.
RJ Barrett (2018-2019)
RJ Barrett, who played with Zion Williamson, was a big contributor in the 2018-2019 season, averaging 22.6 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game. His all-around performance landed him as the third overall pick in the 2019 NBA draft.
Cam Reddish (2018-2019)
As a member of Duke’s star-studded 2018-2019 freshman class, Cam Reddish averaged 13.5 points per game. He was known for his shooting and defensive abilities. He was taken 10th overall in the 2019 NBA Draft.
These players reflect the talent and effect of Duke’s one-and-done athletes, leaving a lasting mark on the program despite their brief tenures.
Cooper Flagg: Is He the Duke’s Next Potential One-and-Done Star?
Looking ahead, freshman forward Cooper Flagg is gaining attention as Duke’s next potential one-and-done standout. Standing at 6’9″, Flagg has already made headlines for his outstanding achievements.
Also Read: Why Did Cooper Flagg Commit to Duke? A Look Inside the Basketball Star’s Recruitment
Flagg has also signed significant NIL contracts, including earning Gatorade’s first men’s college basketball sponsorship. As the 2024-25 season nears its end, Flagg’s trajectory implies he could be a top pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.
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