ROSTER TAKING SHAPE: Duke Star Who Declared for NBA Draft Finally Returns After Heartfelt Fan Messages — Blue Devils Reload for 2025
The 2025 Duke basketball roster is taking a powerful new shape — and it just got a massive boost.
In a stunning yet welcome turn of events, Duke head coach Jon Scheyer confirmed today that one of the program’s most pivotal players has decided to return to Durham, reversing his initial decision to stay in the NBA Draft. The announcement has reignited excitement among the Blue Devil faithful, and it’s a clear sign that Duke isn’t just reloading — it’s refocusing for a deep title run.
“This is a major piece for us,” Scheyer said during a press briefing at Cameron Indoor Stadium. “He’s a leader, he’s a competitor, and he’s someone who knows what it means to wear Duke across his chest. We’re thrilled to have him back.”
The decision didn’t come lightly. After declaring for the 2025 NBA Draft earlier this spring, the player had begun preparing for the next phase of his career — training with pro scouts, taking part in workouts, and even receiving mid-to-late first-round projections. But something changed.
According to sources close to the situation, what shifted wasn’t pressure from the program or draft stock uncertainty — it was the fans.
Throughout April and early May, a groundswell of support flooded the player’s social media. From heartfelt direct messages to public tags and even short tribute videos, Duke fans made their voices heard. The message was clear: “We’re not done watching you in Blue and White.”
The emotional outpouring struck a chord — especially for a player who’s always embraced Duke’s unique blend of intensity, loyalty, and tradition.
And now, it’s official: Tyrese Proctor is coming back.
The 6’6″ Australian guard, who was a key playmaker and defensive anchor for the Blue Devils last season, will return for another year — giving Duke a proven backcourt general to pair with incoming freshmen and returning stars. Proctor averaged 11.2 points, 5.6 assists, and 1.4 steals per game last season, and his decision to come back instantly boosts Duke’s national championship odds.
“This place is home,” Proctor said in a statement. “The love I felt from Duke Nation made this decision easy. We’ve got something special to finish.”
Coach Scheyer added, “Tyrese’s return brings stability, leadership, and experience. It’s rare to have someone with his vision and maturity back in college basketball — and we’re going to make it count.”
With Proctor’s return, Duke’s 2025 roster is shaping into one of the most balanced and dangerous in the nation. One thing’s for sure: the Brotherhood is alive and thriving — and it just got its heart back.
