BROOKLYN, N.Y. — Duke University is a hot bed for the NBA Draft. In the last 24 of 26 Drafts, a Blue Devil was selected in the First Round With the 2024 NBA Draft happening tonight, Jared McCain and Kyle Filipowski are hoping to hear their names called.
Guard Jared McCain has the best chance of keeping Duke's First Round streak alive, as several mock drafts project the 20-year-old to go in the middle of the first round. McCain an efficient scorer. He has range from the tree point line and can shoot it off the dribble or on the catch. The guard had an impressive post season campaign this season, scoring in the 30’s not once, but twice in the NCAA Tournament.
Personally, I see McCain fitting in with the Philadelphia 76ers or the Sacramento Kings. In Philadelphia, the guard matches his skillset, especially his shooting matches the wants of the team. McCain is coming off of a workout with Sacramento, which by the way, is his hometown team. Regardless of who is picking, McCain can fit in any roster with his scoring versatility, basketball IQ and his competitiveness.
Next up is Kyle Filpowski. The Duke Forward is all over the place in the mock drafts going anywhere from mid to late first round and even dropping down to the second round. In his two years at Duke, he was a standout player, especially this last season where he lead the team in both scoring and rebounding. While his upside has been questions, Filipowski has the size and tools needed to be successful. Paring that with a good coach and mentor will be huge for his development. I wouldn't be surprised if Filipowski is selected by the reigning NBA Champions, the Boston Celtics.
Both McCain and Filipowski have green room invites and will be in attendance in Brooklyn tonight.
