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Blue Devil Country

Duke Basketball Star Out of NBA, Settles for Turkey

Former Duke basketball one-and-done Vernon Carey Jr. is heading overseas.
Matt Giles|
Duke Basketball Star Out of NBA, Settles for Turkey
Duke Basketball Star Out of NBA, Settles for Turkey

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After seeing only 28 minutes between 11 appearances for the Washington Wizards last season, Vernon Carey Jr. got waived in March. Then the 2019-20 Duke basketball sensation agreed to a non-guaranteed deal with the Utah Jazz, but they let him go in July despite some solid performances in Salt Lake City Summer League action.

So now, three years removed from becoming NABC Freshman of the Year, ACC Rookie of the Year, and a consensus All-American as a Blue Devil, Carey is taking his talents to Turkey.

The 22-year-old former McDonald's All-American, a 6-foot-9 bruiser who went No. 32 overall to the Charlotte Hornets at the 2020 NBA Draft, recently signed with Pinar Karsiyaka of the Turkish Basketball Super League.

RELATED: List of Duke's All-Time McDonald's All-Americans

Pinar Karsiyaka announced the addition via the following post:

Of course, there's still hope for Vernon Carey Jr. to return to the NBA, perhaps even as soon as the start of training camp next month, should any franchises find themselves needing another serviceable reserve big man.

But for now, the South Florida native, son of former eight-year Miami Dolphins offensive lineman Vernon Carey Sr., must embrace his current opportunity in Turkey.

Perhaps the Duke basketball treasure will work on adding more weapons outside of the paint, better fitting the mold of what most NBA teams are looking for in a big man these days.

RELATED: List of Every Former Blue Devil in the NBA

Stay tuned to Blue Devil Country on SI.com 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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