The journey of Isaiah Evans at Duke has been nothing short of remarkable. From initially struggling for playing time to becoming one of the ACC’s premier shooters, Evans has demonstrated exceptional growth and potential. His decision on whether to return for another season could significantly impact both his NBA prospects and Duke’s basketball program.

Unleashing Potential: Why Another Year at Duke Could Be a Game-Changer

Elite Freshman Class Redefines Duke's Roster

Duke University welcomed an extraordinary group of freshmen this year, boasting four five-star recruits and two four-star players. This influx of talent has transformed the team's lineup, creating intense competition for playing time. Among these newcomers, three standout five-star athletes—Cooper Flagg, Kon Knueppel, and Khaman Maluach—are widely anticipated to be lottery picks in the 2025 NBA Draft. Their likely departure after just one season leaves room for other players like Isaiah Evans to potentially step into larger roles.

Navigating Early Challenges

Despite being ranked as the 13th best player nationally by 247Sports, Evans faced initial hurdles. He was sidelined in key early-season games against Kansas and Kentucky, leaving fans and analysts puzzled. However, his breakthrough came during a pivotal home game against Auburn. In that contest, Evans showcased his shooting prowess, hitting six consecutive three-pointers in the first half, propelling Duke to a decisive victory. Since then, he has emerged as one of the ACC’s top shooters, consistently delivering from beyond the arc.

Beyond the Numbers: Developing Versatility

Evans’ shooting statistics are impressive, but they only tell part of the story. Standing at 6'6" and weighing 175 pounds, he possesses the physical attributes needed to excel as a 3-and-D player in the NBA. While his offensive skills have shone brightly, there is room for improvement on defense. Guarding perimeter players and managing drives from bigger guards remain areas of focus. Returning for another year would provide valuable time to refine these defensive skills, making him a more well-rounded prospect.

A Proven System for Growth

Under head coach Jon Scheyer, Duke has cultivated a nurturing environment for player development. Tyrese Proctor’s emergence as a junior exemplifies this success. For Evans, staying within a familiar system offers numerous advantages. It allows him to build upon his existing strengths while addressing weaknesses. With increased playing time and a broader role, Evans can showcase his full range of abilities, including passing and rebounding, which were evident during his high school years at North Mecklenburg (NC).

Boosting Draft Stock with Consistency

While current mock drafts place Evans as a late second-round pick or off the radar entirely, another year at Duke could dramatically alter this trajectory. Continued excellence in shooting combined with improved defense and versatility would make him a highly sought-after prospect. NBA teams value reliable shooters who can also contribute defensively, positioning Evans as a prime candidate for higher draft selection. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether he opts to return and capitalize on this opportunity.