Duke’s Maliq Brown heads to the NBA after second-round selection, adding to Jon Scheyer’s draft-track record

Maliq Brown’s path from Duke to the NBA has accelerated again. Brown was selected in the second round of the 2026 NBA Draft, giving the Blue Devils another former player who will begin a pro career after college.

The selection also fits a broader pattern in Durham. According to Yahoo Sports, Duke had three of its former players selected in the 2026 NBA Draft, a sign that the program’s roster churn is not preventing NBA opportunities for the next wave of talent.

For Duke coach Jon Scheyer, the draft day data point carries added weight because it is not isolated. Yahoo Sports reports that Scheyer has developed eight NBA draftees in the last two seasons alone, which frames this selection as part of an ongoing process rather than a one-time outcome.

Brown’s NBA value, as reflected in what Duke tends to cultivate, is centered on practical on-court roles that translate across levels. NBA teams often look for players who can defend multiple spots, make winning plays without needing the ball in their hands every possession, and contribute in transition or half-court sets through spacing, finishing, and sound positioning.

In that sense, Duke’s reputation under Scheyer is not only producing high-profile scorers, but players who can be drafted for fit and coached into specific responsibilities. Even without detailing Brown’s exact draft spot or team fit here, a second-round selection generally suggests teams believe in development potential, a willingness to refine physical tools, and a capacity to contribute after a learning curve.

Duke’s draft presence also matters beyond one player. When three former Blue Devils are selected in the same draft, it can influence how NBA executives view the program’s evaluation and player development, while also shaping recruits’ expectations of where their games can go after college.

What to watch next is how Brown’s college skill set is interpreted in an NBA system and where he lands in the rotation. Second-round draftees often need time to settle into role clarity, so Brown’s early reps, defensive assignment stability, and ability to execute in set plays will likely determine how quickly his minutes expand. Meanwhile, Duke’s continued streak of draftees will remain a storyline into the next recruiting cycle and offseason roster planning.