Bleacher Report’s latest 2027 NBA Mock Draft has created quite a stir among Duke basketball fans by predicting longer college careers for two of the Blue Devils’ most anticipated freshmen.
Nik Khamenia and Dame Sarr, both five-star recruits from Duke’s No. 1-ranked 2025 class, appeared in the first round — but for the 2027 draft, not 2026 as many expected. Khamenia was projected at No. 17 to the Milwaukee Bucks, followed by Sarr at No. 18 to the San Antonio Spurs.
The surprise isn’t their first-round status — both players are elite 3-and-D wings — but rather the forecast of them staying two years in Durham. Given their skill sets, most assumed they’d follow the traditional one-and-done route.
Several factors could influence this projection. Duke’s 2025-26 roster will be loaded with offensive talent, possibly limiting touches for Sarr and Khamenia in their freshman season. Additionally, the 2027 draft is expected to feature less top-tier talent than 2026, making a second year potentially more beneficial for their draft stock.
Sarr, a 6’8” Italian guard, joined late after Cedric Coward stayed in the 2025 NBA Draft. He brings elite shooting, high-level defense, and European pro experience, having averaged 3.5 points and 1.1 rebounds in EuroLeague and Liga ACB play last season while shooting 44.8% from three.
Khamenia, ranked No. 19 in the 247Sports 2025 Composite, offers a similar profile — strong outside shooting, defensive instincts, and the ability to facilitate in transition. Fresh off winning gold at the U19 FIBA World Cup with Team USA, he proved to be one of the squad’s key contributors.
