ALERT: All Five Duke Starters Invited to NBA Combine — But Could This Be a Nightmare Scenario for the Blue Devils?
Duke Basketball fans have every reason to celebrate — and to worry.
In a remarkable display of talent and development, all five Duke starters — Kyle Filipowski, Tyrese Proctor, Jared McCain, Mark Mitchell, and Jeremy Roach — have officially received invitations to the 2025 NBA Draft Combine. This rare achievement showcases the exceptional job head coach Jon Scheyer has done building a powerhouse lineup. But behind the headlines lies a growing concern: Could this spell disaster for Duke’s future?
The NBA Combine is the gateway to the pros, and while fans are thrilled to see their favorite Blue Devils getting national recognition, the mass exodus of Duke’s entire starting five could leave the program in a state of total rebuild.
“If all five starters declare and stay in the draft, it would leave an enormous void,” one ACC analyst stated. “Duke’s depth is strong, but losing your entire core in one offseason is a challenge even elite programs struggle to overcome.”
Kyle Filipowski, a versatile big man and projected lottery pick, has been the anchor in the paint.
Tyrese Proctor, known for his court vision and poise, has proven himself as a top-tier floor general.
Jared McCain, the sharpshooting freshman sensation, rose rapidly in mock draft rankings.
Mark Mitchell has been a defensive standout with underrated offensive skills.
Jeremy Roach, the veteran leader, brought experience and grit to every game.
Together, they led Duke to a dominant season — but if all five take the leap to the NBA, Duke could be left scrambling to fill not just roles, but leadership, chemistry, and momentum.
Jon Scheyer faces a defining moment in his young coaching career. The Blue Devils have strong recruits coming in and could look to the transfer portal, but rebuilding an entire starting lineup is a steep hill to climb — especially in the highly competitive ACC.
The talent exodus could mean short-term pain for long-term gain, but fans are holding their breath.
Could this Combine celebration turn into Duke’s biggest offseason crisis in years?
