Isaiah Evans heads to Minnesota
The 2026 NBA Draft saw former Duke standout Isaiah Evans selected with the 33rd overall pick by the Minnesota Timberwolves, a move that completes a trade that began with the Brooklyn Nets.
Evans arrives in Minnesota after a standout prep career at North Mecklenburg High School, where he earned three‑time HighSchoolOT All‑State honors and was crowned the 2024 North Carolina Gatorade Boys Basketball Player of the Year.
He led the Chargers to the 2023‑24 N.C. High School Athletic Association 4A State Championship and posted averages of 27.5 points, 6.3 rebounds, 3.0 assists and 2.4 steals during his senior season.
Duke years and development
After committing to Duke University, Evans contributed 6.8 points per game as a freshman in the 2024‑25 campaign before breaking out as a sophomore, when he averaged 15 points while shooting 36.1% from three‑point range.
Coaches praised his defensive growth and versatility, noting that his improved shooting opened up new offensive roles for the Blue Devils.
What the Timberwolves see
Timberwolves executives highlighted Evans’ shooting prowess and athletic upside as key factors in their decision, saying his skill set aligns with the club’s ambition to make a postseason push.
The trade that moved him from Brooklyn to Minnesota reflects a strategic shift, and the team hopes the former North Carolina prospect can bring a spark to the roster as he transitions to the professional game.