Blue Devil Country

Why Veteran Duke Basketball Big Man 'Chose MBA Over NBA'

Kyle Filipowski and Ryan Young make for a brilliant on-air Duke basketball pair.
Matt Giles|
Why Veteran Duke Basketball Big Man 'Chose MBA Over NBA'
Why Veteran Duke Basketball Big Man 'Chose MBA Over NBA'

In this story:

Duke Blue Devils

On this week's episode of The Brotherhood Podcast, the usual host, Ryan Young, saw his first chance to be the featured guest. Duke basketball sophomore Kyle Filipowski commanded the host role.

As one can see from just the following 11-second clip of the class-clown-like 7-footer's facial expressions while listening to the all-business graduate center, conversations between the 19-year-old reigning ACC Rookie of the Year and 23-year-old potential Blue Devil captain produce nothing short of pure comedy gold:

Filipowski, who decided to return to Durham despite being a projected first-round draft pick, repeatedly exhibited his entertaining hosting power.

In the following 43-second clip, he perfectly sets up Young — who is unlikely ever to pursue an NBA career but should once more be a helpful piece to Duke basketball's primary rotation — for a sarcastically hilarious explanation of why he decided to come back for a second season with the Blue Devils since transferring from Northwestern:

Filipowski: "You decided to stay here for a couple more years to get your MBA rather than go into the NBA. You had to turn them down?"

Young: "Yeah, I was on all the draft boards. A lot of meetings. A lot of workouts. And I told them I didn't want to be the No. 1 overall pick. I gotta get my MBA. Tough decision."

Filipowski: "It is a tough decision...I'm glad you came back, though. I love playing with you."

Young: "That was part of it. I let Wemby [Victor Wembanyama] take the No. 1 spot. And I wanted to come back and spend another year with you."

Filipowski: "How gracious of you. That's very selfless. That's awesome."

The word "awesome" also suits their on-air chemistry.

RELATED: Blue Devil Star Rouses Haters With One Bold Prediction

Duke basketball's season begins on Nov. 6 with a home bout against Dartmouth. The complete schedule, including dates for ACC games, should come out within the next few weeks.

Stay tuned to Blue Devil Country on SI.com for more Duke basketball news.

Published
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.

Share on XFollow MattGilesBD
Home/Basketball