With the start of the NBA regular season, several former Blue Devils are making their presence felt at the highest level of professional basketball. The Blue Zone is here to highlight a few standouts:
Brandon Ingram
Brandon Ingram emerged as a standout player during his 2015-2016 season at Duke, averaging 17.4 points per game and showcasing his versatility as both a scorer and a playmaker. Ingram's ability to stretch the floor with his shooting and create mismatches with his height and agility set him apart; he ultimately earned a spot as the second overall pick in the 2016 NBA Draft and was named to the NBA All-Rookie Second Team after his first season in the league.
Ingram has blossomed into a star during his time with the New Orleans Pelicans. The Kinston, N.C., native quickly became a focal point of the offense, developing into a dynamic scorer and a reliable leader. The former Blue Devil showcased his talents Friday in a huge win against the Portland Trail Blazers. Tied 103-103 with less than 15 seconds left, Ingram took control, driving into the paint on Blazers guard Anfernee Simons before making a contested turnaround jumper to take the lead and ultimately secure the win.
Jayson Tatum
Despite battling injuries that forced him to miss the first eight games of the 2016-17 season through injury, the current Celtics forward averaged an impressive 16.8 points per game during his time with the Blue Devils. Tatum has continued to showcase these shooting abilities in the NBA, averaging 23.1 points per game for his career and leading the Celtics to their 18th championship in June.
On opening night last week in Boston’s first game since winning the NBA Finals, Tatum dropped 37 points, shooting 14-of-18 from the field in the Celtics’ blowout of the New York Knicks. This performance serves as a testament to his continued evolution as an elite scorer in the NBA. Tatum’s offensive efficiency and ability to take over games, developed during his time at Duke, have led to immense success at the highest level of professional basketball.
Paolo Banchero
Paolo Banchero is a familiar name for Duke basketball fans. Banchero was a superstar during his time as a Blue Devil, ultimately being drafted with the first overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft by the Orlando Magic, the fifth Duke player to earn that honor. During his time in Durham, Banchero excelled within the paint and often drove to the basket with power before finishing through contact. The Seattle native has continued to prove himself as a dominant player with the Magic, as his skills have translated well to the NBA.
Wednesday against the Miami Heat, Banchero delivered a standout performance that showcased his scoring ability and overall impact on the court. Orlando’s star played a pivotal role in leading the team to victory, finishing with an impressive 33 points. Banchero’s versatility was on full display as he scored from various spots on the floor, utilizing strong drives to the basket as well as hitting numerous mid-range jumpers and 3-pointers.
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