Former Duke basketball players are making waves at the NBA Summer League, showcasing their skills and competing for roster spots. Among them is Cooper Flagg, the 2025 No. 1 overall pick, who signed a lucrative four-year, $62.7 million contract with the Dallas Mavericks. Flagg will be a key player to watch as he takes the court against the Los Angeles Lakers on July 10. Other notable Blue Devils include Kon Knueppel and Sion James, who were selected early in the draft and will play for the Charlotte Hornets.

Knueppel, the No. 4 pick, signed for $45.4 million, while James, a second-round selection, brings a significant skill set to the court. Tyrese Proctor, also a second-round pick, makes his debut with the Cleveland Cavaliers, and Khaman Maluach will represent the Phoenix Suns as their No. 10 pick. Each of these athletes aims to impress as they embark on their professional careers.

The Charlotte Hornets have made a strategic pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, selecting Duke forward Sion James with their first second-round selection. Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 220 pounds, James is recognized as an All-ACC defender and recorded averages of 8.6 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 2.9 assists last season. This pick marks a reunion with teammate Kon Knueppel as they both embark on their NBA careers in the Tar Heel State.

James, a native of Sugar Hill, Georgia, began his collegiate journey at Tulane, where he showcased his potential during a trying freshman season amid the Covid pandemic, eventually averaging 14.0 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 2.7 assists over four years. Known for his balanced scoring and defensive capabilities, his integration into the team represents a calculated move by Charlotte to bolster their roster without taking significant risks. This strategy aligns perfectly with the club's current plan, focusing on acquiring solid, high-IQ talent.