Luke Paul commits to Duke University

The Kenfrost Homes Cairns Taipans congratulate NBL Next Star Luke Paul on committing to Duke University for the class of 2027, following the completion of his current campaign with Cairns. His decision to join was revealed on NBA Today with ESPN’s Brian Windhorst.

Paul signed a multi-year deal with the NBL’s Next Stars in January, becoming the youngest athlete to sign with the league’s program before ultimately selecting Cairns and the opportunity to develop under Taipans Head Coach Adam Forde.

Coach Forde has a proven record of developing young Australian talent, including Keanu Pinder, Taran Armstrong, Sam Waardenburg and Bul Kuol.

He also had success preparing Bobi Klintman for the 2024 NBA Draft, and said Luke’s decision to begin his career in Cairns was significant.

“We’re really proud of Luke and how he has embraced our Club and our program in such a short time.

“It’s a privilege he chose us first, and we love that the Taipans will always be synonymous with his journey,” said Forde.

“He’s going to learn a lot while he’s here with us this season and he’ll be even more elite for Duke with that experience.”

After sustaining an ankle injury during the pre-season, the 17-year-old is yet to hit the NBL court but is looking forward to making his debut in orange.  

"Training in this NBL environment is accelerating my development, and I'm thankful to the Taipans, Coach Adam Forde, the Next Stars program and everyone involved for helping me to improve," Paul said.

"I'm excited about committing to Duke, as it's a dream come true and I'm equally excited about giving absolutely everything I have to Cairns this season."

Paul becomes the first Next Star to move from the NBL into the US college system and will join one of the most decorated men’s basketball programs playing for the Blue Devils.

Duke boasts five national championships and more than 110 NBA Draft picks, including six first overall selections, the most of any college program.

The Taipans play Melbourne United tomorrow night at John Cain Arena, 7:30pm.

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