Duke’s Veteran Guard Duo Flying Under the Radar Ahead of 2025 NBA Draft
As the 2025 NBA Draft approaches less than a week away, all eyes seem fixated on the big names from Duke’s blue-chip incoming rookie class. The spotlight shines brightly on the projected lottery picks—Cooper Flagg, expected to go No. 1 overall to the Dallas Mavericks, and fellow top-ten hopefuls Kon Knueppel and Khaman Maluach. But amid the hype around these newcomers, there are two seasoned Blue Devils quietly poised to make their mark on draft night: the veteran guard duo of Tyrese Proctor and Sion James.
While these two don’t carry the same buzz or early lottery projections, their skill sets, experience, and polished games make them intriguing prospects in their own right. Both guards, coming off productive seasons, are currently projected as mid-to-late second-round picks, according to the latest ESPN mock draft. Let’s dive into why they deserve more attention and where they might be headed in the NBA.
Tyrese Proctor: A Sharpshooting, Defensive Two-Guard Set for Utah Jazz
Tyrese Proctor, Duke’s junior lead guard, recently concluded a standout season that saw him post career highs across the board. With averages of 12.4 points per game, a 45.2% field goal percentage, and an impressive 40.5% from beyond the arc, Proctor showed he can be a lethal scorer at the next level. His size at 6’6” combined with his ability to defend multiple positions on the perimeter makes him an NBA-ready player.
ESPN’s mock draft slots Proctor at 43rd overall, projecting the Utah Jazz to add him in the middle of the second round. Proctor’s decision to forgo another year in college and pursue his NBA dreams over a potential NIL payday shows his commitment to the pro game. Despite a slight dip in his passing stats, his scoring and defensive prowess, especially demonstrated during Duke’s NCAA Tournament run, suggest he can be a reliable “3-and-D” contributor right away.
Sion James: A Physical, Intelligent Finisher and Defensive Ace Bound for Chicago Bulls
Sion James, who joined Duke for his graduate season after a four-year career at Tulane, might be the draft’s biggest sleeper. At 6’6” and 220 pounds, James combines the build of a linebacker with elite basketball instincts. His ability to defend the perimeter, finish through contact, and maintain efficiency on both ends of the court marks him as the quintessential backup guard for NBA teams looking to deepen their roster.
According to ESPN’s latest projections, James is expected to be picked 45th overall by the Chicago Bulls. His steady playmaking—115 assists to just 47 turnovers—and 41.3% three-point shooting demonstrate a maturity and consistency rare for mid-second-round prospects. Known for his relentless motor and basketball IQ, James could easily become a draft-day steal who adds immediate value off the bench.
Why This Duo Deserves More Buzz
The 2025 NBA Draft buzz mostly revolves around the flashy rookies who boast high ceilings and immediate star potential. But Proctor and James offer NBA teams valuable traits that are often overlooked amid the hype—experience, polished skill sets, defensive versatility, and high basketball IQ. Both guards have proven they can contribute in pressure situations, and their length and toughness translate well to the professional game.
In a draft where mid-to-late second-round picks often hold hidden gems, the veteran Duke guard duo fits the mold perfectly. Teams like the Utah Jazz and Chicago Bulls may have found underrated contributors who can carve out meaningful roles quickly.
What’s Next for Proctor and James?
As draft night nears, scouts and front offices will be weighing upside against readiness. Proctor and James may not have the ceiling of a lottery pick, but their floor is high—a polished, professional approach to the game that could make them early rotation players.
For Duke basketball fans, it’s a bittersweet moment—while the spotlight shines elsewhere, these two guards have quietly written a compelling final chapter in Durham. Now, the NBA stage awaits, and the veteran duo is ready to show the league that sometimes steady, smart, and seasoned wins the day.
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