2024 NBA Draft: Duke Star Becomes Available for Detroit Pistons

As expected, Duke will lose a star player to the 2024 NBA Draft, as Kyle Filipowski officially announced he was declaring on Friday morning.

The 20-year-old New York native could end up on the Detroit Pistons’ board, depending on how his pre-draft process plays out.

Last season, Filipowski was projected to be a one-and-done prospect out of Duke. Many assumed he would enter the 2023 NBA Draft and become a first-round selection. However, the college standout returned to Duke for his sophomore season.

His most recent season featured 36 games, where he averaged 16 points, eight rebounds, 1.5 blocks, and 1.1 steals. Filipowski’s performance during his sophomore effort mirrored his successful freshman run, but he scored with more efficiency, seeing a six-percent improvement from the field, and a seven-percent improvement from three.

Now, Filipowski is ready to take the next step.

“I have decided to declare for the NBA Draft,” Filipowski wrote in an official statement. “This has been a lifelong dream of mine, and I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to pursue it.”

The Pistons anticipate having one of the top picks in the draft. While Filipowski is likely to land in lottery territory, most big boards and mock drafts don’t see him landing in the top ten as of now. Of course, a strong pre-draft process could always change that.

The NBA Draft will take place on Thursday, June 27, 2024. Next month, prospects will begin showcasing their talents for potential suitors at the NBA Combine in Chicago.