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Pat Ngongba Makes HIs Decision
TL;DR
Pat Ngongba will return for his junior season with Duke Basketball, a significant boost for the team. Many expected him to enter the NBA draft, but he may benefit more by staying in college.
Key points
- Pat Ngongba returns for his junior season at Duke
- He was considered a potential first-round NBA pick
- Staying at Duke may offer him better financial prospects
- Ngongba contributed significantly to Duke's defense and offense
- The upcoming NBA draft is expected to be historically deep
Pat NgongbaDuke Blue DevilsNCAA Men's Basketball Tournament
WASHINGTON, DC - MARCH 27: Patrick Ngongba #21 of the Duke Blue Devils shoots free throws against the St. John's Red Storm during the second half in the Sweet Sixteen of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Capital One Arena on March 27, 2026 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Here’s some huge news for Duke Basketball: Pat Ngongba is coming back for his junior season.
That’s a really big deal for Duke, no pun intended. Big Pat showed a huge amount last season. He really helped shore up the interior defense, and his offense is subtle and effective. He’s also a really good passer.
A lot of people saw him as a first-round pick, and are wondering why he would return. With college basketball essentially being professional now, Ngongba might actually make more at Duke than he would in the NBA. This would obviously be different if he were a sure-fire lottery pick, but this year’s draft looks to be historically deep.
Next year’s? Not so much.
So if Ngongba can make good money this year and improve, he has an excellent chance at being a lottery pick next year, and he’ll come out ahead in the long run.
And that’s just financial. It’s possible that he just enjoys being at Duke and isn’t ready to leave yet.
Q&A
Why is Pat Ngongba returning to Duke for another season?
Pat Ngongba is returning to Duke because he may earn more by staying in college rather than entering a deep NBA draft.
What impact did Pat Ngongba have on Duke's basketball team last season?
Pat Ngongba significantly contributed to Duke's interior defense and showcased effective offensive skills, including passing.
How does this decision affect Duke's prospects for the next NCAA season?
Ngongba's return strengthens Duke's roster, enhancing their chances for success in the upcoming NCAA season.