Can Duke’s Three Prospects All Land in the Top 10? The Data Doesn’t Lie — But the Hype Might

The Mock Draft That Got Everyone Talking

ESPN just dropped its 2025 NBA mock draft, and suddenly, Duke’s trio — Flagg, Mann, and Klipper — are all in the top 10. Sounds like a fairy tale? Maybe. But as someone who’s spent eight years decoding Opta databases down to the inch, I see patterns others miss.

The Numbers Don’t Lie (But They Don’t Tell Everything)

Cooper Flagg: 6’10”, 18, point forward with elite defensive IQ. His athleticism screams ‘future MVP.’ No surprise he’s #1. Then comes Kannon Klipper at #4: 6’6”, combo guard/forward with elite passing vision. Solid. But his perimeter shooting? Iffy in high-pressure scenarios.

Cam Mann at #8: 6’10”, center with size but questionable mobility. He fits the ‘modern big man’ mold — but can he stretch the floor? Or is he just a highlight on a spreadsheet?

Why This Feels Like Hollywood With Stats

We’re treating height and position like gospel while ignoring basketball instincts — decision-making under pressure, court vision, late-game execution. These kids are hyped because they’re tall and from Duke — not because their reads out of data match.

I’ve watched too many ‘can’t-miss’ prospects flame out by age six when they hit the NBA draft only to fade into mediocrity.

The real question isn’t where they go — it’s whether we’re drafting potential… or just hype dressed as analytics.