Two Duke alums selected in mock NBA expansion draft

With NBA expansion on the table, basketball fans may see two new franchises compete at the highest level very soon. But, considering the last expansion draft took place in 2004, what might the rosters look like? And, of course, would they include any notable Duke alumni?

Bleacher Report gave a partial answer to that question, as two of their writers conducted an NBA expansion mock draft , selecting players from a select group (excluding players expected to be protected in the draft) to round out their rosters. Bleacher Report's staff didn't waste any time selecting a former Blue Devil, taking Jared McCain ( Oklahoma City Thunder ) with the No. 1 overall pick.

While McCain may not be the best player available, his age, production and salary (still on his rookie deal) make him one of the more valuable players on the board. Last season between the Thunder and 76ers , McCain averaged 8.3 points, two rebounds, 1.3 assists and 0.5 steals. He also performed quite well for Oklahoma City in the postseason.

The next and final former Blue Devil selected (No. 11) was Charlotte Hornets guard Sion James . Despite being selected in the second round of last year's 2025 NBA Draft, James carved out a role in Charlotte's rotation, playing in all 82 games. He averaged 5.4 points, 3.5 rebounds, two assists and 0.6 steals. Like McCain, the fact that James is still on his rookie deal makes him a worthy selection.