Isaiah Evans and Maliq Brown were chosen in the second round of the 2026 NBA Draft, marking the latest chapter in Duke’s ongoing pipeline of talent into the league.
Evans was originally selected by the Brooklyn Nets before being flipped to the Minnesota Timberwolves, while Brown found a home with the San Antonio Spurs.
Their selections add to a series of recent draft successes for the Blue Devils, including Cameron Boozer, who was taken third overall by the Memphis Grizzlies, and a host of other former teammates who have been drafted over the past two cycles.
Coach Jon Scheyer, now in his fourth season at the helm, has overseen 12 NBA Draft picks, a tally that includes 38 players he has helped develop since joining the staff in 2013‑14.
Duke’s 119 all‑time NBA Draft selections place the program among the most prolific in college basketball, and the school has produced at least one first‑round pick in 15 of the last 16 drafts.
The Blue Devils have also extended their streak of drafting a freshman each year for 13 consecutive seasons, and players from Duke have been chosen by 29 of the league’s 30 franchises.
Geographically, the reach of Duke’s draft presence spans the country, from the Nets in Brooklyn to the Spurs in San Antonio, the Grizzlies in Memphis, and the Bulls in Chicago, among others.
A Legacy of Development
Scheyer’s recruiting philosophy emphasizes not only elite talent but also the professional preparation that translates into NBA readiness.
The program’s emphasis on skill development, strength training, and exposure to high‑level competition has paid dividends, as evidenced by the steady stream of players hearing their names called on draft night.
Fans and analysts alike note that the Blue Devils’ consistent output reflects a culture that blends academic excellence with athletic ambition, a combination that continues to attract top recruits.