Isaiah Evans Enters NBA Draft Despite Decision to Return to Duke Basketball
In a surprising turn of events, Isaiah Evans, the highly touted freshman guard from Duke University, has declared for the 2025 NBA Draft while simultaneously announcing his intention to return to Durham for his sophomore season. This dual approach has left fans and analysts alike pondering the implications for both Evans’ professional aspirations and the Blue Devils’ roster for the upcoming season.
Background: A Freshman Year of Promise
Isaiah Evans, a 6-foot-6 guard from Huntersville, North Carolina, entered Duke as a consensus five-star recruit and was widely regarded as one of the top prospects in the Class of 2024. During his freshman season, Evans showcased his potential, averaging 6.8 points per game and leading the team with a 41.6% shooting percentage from beyond the arc. His performance was particularly notable during the latter part of the season, where he emerged as a reliable scoring option off the bench for head coach Jon Scheyer’s squad.
The Decision to Return to Duke
Despite his impressive freshman campaign, Evans announced his decision to return to Duke for his sophomore season, citing a desire to further develop his skills and contribute to the team’s success. This move was seen as a strategic decision, allowing Evans to refine his game and enhance his draft stock for the 2026 NBA Draft.
Entering the NBA Draft: A Strategic Move
In a move that has raised eyebrows, Evans has declared for the 2025 NBA Draft while maintaining his college eligibility. This decision allows him to participate in the draft process, including attending the NBA Draft Combine and engaging in private workouts with NBA teams. By doing so, Evans aims to gather valuable feedback on his game and assess his standing in the eyes of professional scouts.
Importantly, Evans has until May 28 to withdraw from the draft and retain his college eligibility, provided he does not sign with an agent or hires an NCAA-certified agent. This timeline offers him the flexibility to make an informed decision about his future.
Implications for Duke Basketball
Evans’ decision to return to Duke provides a significant boost to the Blue Devils’ roster for the 2025–26 season. With the departures of key players such as Cooper Flagg, Kon Knueppel, and Tyrese Proctor to the NBA Draft, Evans’ return ensures that Duke retains a talented and experienced player to lead the team. His shooting ability and scoring prowess will be invaluable assets as the Blue Devils aim for another successful season.
Looking Ahead: A Dual Path Forward
As Evans navigates the NBA Draft process while preparing for his sophomore season at Duke, he finds himself on a unique path that balances immediate professional aspirations with long-term development goals. This dual approach reflects a growing trend among college athletes who seek to maximize their opportunities while maintaining their eligibility.
For Evans, the coming months will be pivotal in shaping his future. His performance in the NBA Draft Combine and subsequent workouts will provide critical insights into his readiness for the professional ranks. Simultaneously, his development at Duke will continue to play a crucial role in enhancing his skills and preparing him for the challenges of professional basketball.
