Duke players in the NBA: Tatum, Irving, Williamson, more

The hiring of Mike Krzyzewski in 1980 changed the trajectory of Duke men’s basketball forever. Under his leadership, the Blue Devils became a powerhouse, winning five national championships and producing numerous NBA draft picks, including 28 lottery picks. Notable players like Paolo Banchero, Zion Williamson, Kyrie Irving, and Elton Brand left a lasting impact on both Duke and the NBA. Krzyzewski’s legacy continued with his former player and assistant Jon Scheyer taking over as head coach in 2022. The list of Duke players who made their mark in both college and professional basketball is impressive, showcasing the program’s rich history of success.