As the 2025 NBA Draft approaches, teams across the league are keeping a close eye on potential sleepers who could offer significant value later in the draft. Among the names to watch is Sion James, a graduate transfer who made a lasting impact during his lone season at Duke. Although he may not be the most talked-about name heading into the draft, James’ versatile skill set and steady contributions at Duke make him a prospect worthy of attention.
Duke’s 2024-25 Campaign and James’ Role
The 2024-25 season at Duke, under head coach Jon Scheyer, ended just one possession shy of a national title game appearance. Despite falling short of their ultimate goal, the Blue Devils reaffirmed their place as a perennial powerhouse in college basketball. While freshman stars like Cooper Flagg and Kon Knueppel garnered the majority of the headlines, it was the steady presence of Sion James that quietly bolstered the team’s success.
Initially brought in as a depth option, James quickly proved his value to the program and emerged as a key player. His transition into a starting role less than a month into the season was both swift and seamless, and he ended up making 32 starts in 39 games. By the end of the season, James had established himself as one of the most reliable players on a roster brimming with talent.
Rapid Adjustment, Subtle Impact
James’ 2024-25 season was defined by his ability to adjust quickly and contribute in various facets of the game. He averaged 8.6 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 2.9 assists per game while shooting a career-best 41.3% from three-point range. His long-range shooting proved to be a valuable asset, as it helped stretch defenses and create space for Duke’s other offensive threats.
What truly set James apart, however, was his decision-making and efficiency on the floor. His 2.4 assist-to-turnover ratio placed him third in the ACC, signaling his ability to control the tempo of the game and make smart plays under pressure. While his scoring was consistent, it was his basketball IQ and playmaking that made him an integral part of Duke’s system.
Defensive Versatility: A Key Asset for the Next Level
On the defensive end, James showcased a level of versatility that coaches at the next level are sure to appreciate. Duke’s defensive schemes often called for switching on screens and defending multiple positions, and James excelled in these situations. His ability to guard both perimeter players and larger forwards allowed Duke to deploy an adaptable defense, one that could shift and adjust to opponents’ strengths.
James’ defensive prowess did not go unnoticed, as he earned a spot on the ACC All-Defensive Team, a well-deserved recognition for his ability to disrupt passing lanes, guard one-on-one, and contain opposing lead guards. This defensive versatility is a key asset as James transitions to the NBA, where his ability to guard multiple positions will be highly valuable, particularly in a league that increasingly values players who can switch seamlessly on defense.
NBA Potential: A Sleeper Pick with a Defined Role
As the 2025 NBA Draft nears, James is a player who may not receive the same first-round buzz as some of his fellow prospects, but his combination of shooting, decision-making, and defensive ability make him a prime candidate for teams looking to add depth and versatility. While not a flashy scorer or an explosive athlete, James fits a clear professional archetype: the intelligent, hard-working player who can contribute immediately on both ends of the floor.
James’ ability to play within a system, facilitate offense, and defend multiple positions gives him the potential to carve out a role on an NBA roster. Teams looking for a reliable backup point guard or a versatile wing defender could find value in selecting James later in the draft. His high basketball IQ, unselfish play, and ability to make winning plays, even when not the focal point of the offense, will be key selling points for teams evaluating his potential.
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future in the NBA
Sion James may not be a household name, but he has the tools and skills that could make him a key contributor at the NBA level. His growth over the course of the season at Duke, coupled with his versatile skill set and unselfish playing style, positions him as a potential draft sleeper who could make an immediate impact for the right team. As the draft approaches, expect James to be a name that rises on some teams’ boards, offering both immediate depth and the potential for development into a long-term contributor.
The journey from being a graduate transfer to NBA prospect is one that speaks to James’ adaptability, work ethic, and potential. He may not be in the spotlight like some of the other top prospects, but his well-rounded game and steady contributions make him a player that teams will certainly keep an eye on. The 2025 NBA Draft could very well be the next step in Sion James’ rise from under-the-radar contributor to a professional basketball player with a defined role at the highest level.
