Duke’s Big 3 About to Cash In $63 Million? NBA Draft Shocker Incoming!
Duke University has always been a powerhouse in college basketball, but this year’s trio of stars—Tyrese Proctor, Jared McCain, and Kyle Filipowski—are rewriting the script on what it means to dominate both on the court and at the bank. With the 2025 NBA Draft rapidly approaching, multiple sources are reporting that Duke’s “Big 3” could collectively secure contracts totaling up to $63 million, setting the stage for one of the most lucrative draft classes from a single program in recent memory.
Let’s break it down.
Tyrese Proctor, the Australian guard with elite court vision and poise beyond his years, is projected to go mid-to-late lottery. Scouts love his composure, ability to run the offense, and his ever-improving jumper. Several NBA teams see him as a long-term starting point guard, and his projected rookie contract could net him around $16–18 million over four years, depending on his draft position.
Jared McCain, the sharpshooting guard with a viral personality and a knack for big moments, has rocketed up draft boards after a stellar sophomore season. He combines elite three-point shooting with high basketball IQ and underrated defense. Analysts believe he could crack the top 10, which would lock in a deal worth up to $25 million. Combine that with his massive NIL earnings and growing brand partnerships, and McCain could be the face of a new era of marketable, high-impact rookies.
Kyle Filipowski, Duke’s versatile big man, surprised many when he returned for another year, but it’s paid off. The 7-footer has expanded his game—hitting threes, anchoring the defense, and showing improved passing. Teams love his upside, and while he’s projected late lottery or mid-first round, he could command a contract in the $18–20 million range. Filipowski’s decision to delay the NBA for development may have added millions to his long-term value.
Together, the trio is poised to rake in $60–63 million in guaranteed rookie contracts alone, not to mention endorsement deals, marketing opportunities, and performance incentives.
But that’s not all—rumors are swirling that two of them may be planning to announce something major before the draft. Speculation includes early shoe deals, documentary-style media projects, or even a joint NIL-to-NBA transition brand, similar to what LeBron James hinted at back in 2003. If true, it would mark a historic moment in the era of college athletes becoming brands before even stepping on an NBA court.
Duke fans have plenty to be proud of—but the entire basketball world is watching as these three rising stars prepare to make their mark at the next level. Draft night is coming, and the cash is about to come with it.
