Proctor prospects rising in Junior year at Duke

• Tyrese Proctor leading the Duke Blue Devils in Junior year
• Proctor is averaging 10.5 ppg, 3.4 rebounds, and 2.2 assists
• His NBA prospects are on the rise

As we analyse Tyrese Proctor's performance for the Duke Blue Devils in the 2024-25 season, several key takeaways emerge that are particularly relevant for Australian basketball fans, his NBA and Boomers potential.

The 20-year-old Sydney guard, in his junior year at Duke University, has been making waves in the NCAA with his consistent performances and steady improvement for the Duke Blue Devils' 2024-25 season.

Standing at 1.98m and weighing 83kg, Proctor has the ideal size for a modern guard, combining strength and length with agility.

As we examine Proctor's statistics for the 2024-25 season, a picture of a well-rounded player emerges. Through 17 games, he's averaging 10.5 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game. While these numbers may not immediately jump off the page, they tell only part of the story.

To truly understand Proctor's value to the Blue Devils, we need to look deeper into his game-by-game performances and overall impact.

One of the most striking aspects of Proctor's game is his three-point shooting. His ability to stretch the floor has been crucial for Duke's offense. In particular, his performance against Kansas on 27 November 2024 stands out. Despite a narrow 75-72 loss, Proctor showcased his sharpshooting skills, going 5-from-7 from beyond the arc and finishing with 15 points.

Consistency has been a hallmark of Proctor's season. In 13 out of 17 games, he's scored in double figures, providing a reliable scoring option for the Blue Devils. His season-high came against Seattle on 30 November 2024, where he notched up 13 points, four rebounds, and four assists. He's averaging right around 30 minutes per game.

Defensively, Proctor has shown flashes. While his steal numbers may not be eye-popping, he's consistently been able to disrupt opposing offences with his length and anticipation. His ability to guard multiple positions has given Duke's coaching staff flexibility in their defensive schemes.

One area where Proctor has shown marked improvement is his efficiency. His field goal percentage of 41.5% for the season is respectable, but it's his performance in key games that truly stands out. In the victory against SMU on January 5, 2025, Proctor shot 45.5% from the field and 57.1% from three-point range, finishing with 14 points, six rebounds, and three assists.

Proctor's impact on Duke's success this season cannot be overstated. The Blue Devils have compiled an impressive 15-2 record, with Proctor playing a pivotal role.

Against Virginia Tech on January 1, 2025, in a dominant 88-65 win, Proctor contributed 13 points, five assists, and a steal.

One of the most promising aspects of Proctor's game is his continual improvement. Comparing his performances from the beginning of the season to mid-season, there's a noticeable uptick in his confidence and decision-making. This growth bodes well not only for Duke's prospects this season but also for Proctor's draft potential.

However, like any young player, Proctor still has areas where he can improve. His free-throw shooting, while not poor, has room for improvement. In the game against Georgia Tech on December 22, 2024, he went 1-of-3 from the charity stripe. Improving this aspect of his game could push his scoring average even higher and make him an even more formidable offensive threat.

Another area for potential growth is his consistency from beyond the arc. While Proctor has shown the ability to be a deadly three-point shooter, there have been games where his outside shot hasn't fallen. For instance, in the game against Miami on 15 January 2025, he went 0-for-2 from three-point range. However, it's worth noting that even in games where his shot isn't falling, Proctor finds ways to contribute, as evidenced by his 2 assists in that same game.

Looking ahead, Proctor's trajectory suggests he could be a key player in Duke's push for a deep run in the NCAA tournament. His ability to perform in high-pressure situations, as demonstrated in the game against Auburn on December 5, 2024 (12 points, five rebounds in a close 84-78 win), will be crucial as the season progresses and the stakes get higher.

From an NBA perspective, Proctor's performances this season have undoubtedly caught the eye of scouts. His combination of size, shooting ability, and basketball IQ make him an intriguing prospect for the next level. If he can continue to refine his game and improve his consistency, Proctor could well hear his name called in a future NBA draft.

For Australian basketball, Proctor's growth at Duke represents a significant opportunity. He joins a growing list of Australian players making their mark in college basketball, further cementing the country's reputation as a breeding ground for basketball talent.

In conclusion, Tyrese Proctor's 2024-25 contributions have been instrumental in Duke's success, and his continued development promises exciting things for both his NBA dreams, collegiate career and Boomers.