Blue Devil Country

Duke Basketball Alum Delivers First Pro Points in Style

The Cleveland Cavaliers are enjoying their new silky backcourt talent in former Duke basketball player Tyrese Proctor.
Matt Giles|
Duke basketball guard Tyrese Proctor
Duke basketball guard Tyrese Proctor | Bob Donnan-Imagn Images

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Just a few minutes into the Cleveland Cavaliers' NBA 2K26 Summer League debut against the Indiana Pacers in Las Vegas' Pavilion on Thursday, Duke basketball product Tyrese Proctor put his name in the scoring column for the first time on a professional stage. And the Australian guard did so via the brand of smooth driving and finishing he so often displayed across his three seasons as a Blue Devil.

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NBA TV's social media team highlighted the Cleveland rookie's bucket in the following post, showing his behind-the-back dribble to shake a turned-around defender preceding the underhand layup around traffic:

At the time of this article's publishing, the Cavaliers led the Pacers, 77-67, late in the third quarter. Through his first 18 minutes on the court, Tyrese Proctor had posted a plus/minus of +12 while contributing nine points, two assists, two steals, and zero turnovers, shooting 3-for-6 from the field, 2-for-4 from three, and 1-for-1 at the charity stripe.

Despite not coming off the board until No. 49 overall at the 2025 NBA Draft, the three-year Duke basketball backcourt starter secured a four-year, $8.9 million contract with the Cleveland Cavaliers last week.

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Stay tuned to Duke Blue Devils On SI for more Duke basketball news.

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Matt Giles
MATT GILES

Matt Giles is the editor and publisher of Duke Blue Devils on SI, North Carolina Tar Heels on SI, and NC State Wolfpack on SI, making him a key source for comprehensive coverage of these storied college basketball programs. Since joining SI in 2022, Matt has been dedicated to providing in-depth analysis, breaking news, and exclusive content on all three teams. He covers everything from game previews and recaps to player profiles and recruiting updates. Matt's expert knowledge of these teams has made his work a go-to resource for fans and followers of Duke, NC State, and UNC. As publisher, he shapes the editorial direction, ensuring that the most relevant and timely information reaches his audience.

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