The transition from college standout to professional athlete is now official for Isaiah Evans. The former Duke Blue Devil and North Mecklenburg High School legend heard his name called during the 2026 NBA Draft on Wednesday, marking a significant milestone in his basketball career.

Evans was selected with the 33rd overall pick in the second round. While the selection was initially made by the Brooklyn Nets, a proposed trade will send the young wing to the Minnesota Timberwolves, where he will continue his development at the highest level of the sport.

The journey to the NBA has been a steady climb for the North Carolina native. Evans has been a prominent figure in the state's basketball scene for several years, building a reputation that extends far beyond the local gyms. His high school career at North Mecklenburg was nothing short of spectacular, establishing him as a premier talent in the class of 2024.

During his senior season, Evans earned multiple accolades, including three-time HighSchoolOT All-State selections. He capped off his high school career by winning the 2024 N.C. Gatorade Boys Basketball Player of the Year award, a testament to his dominance on the court. That same year, he led the Vikings to a 4A State Championship, securing a decisive victory against a previously undefeated New Hanover squad with a final score of 57-47.

The statistics from his final high school campaign were impressive by any standard. The lanky 6-foot-6, 185-pound wing averaged 27.5 points, 6.3 rebounds, 3.0 assists, and 2.4 steals per game. His on-court production was matched by an infectious personality and unwavering confidence that made him a fan favorite and a must-watch player on social media platforms. His celebrations, including the now-famous hand-to-face gesture after hitting contested three-pointers, became internet staples, as did the viral moment featuring his mother holding up a Crock-Pot in the stands.

His national profile rose as a five-star recruit and McDonald’s All-American, ultimately leading him to Duke University. The decision to stay in state and play for the Blue Devils and head coach Jon Scheyer kept him close to his roots while allowing him to compete on one of college basketball’s biggest stages.

Evans’ freshman season at Duke was a learning curve that defined his collegiate career. He initially struggled to find consistent minutes but permanently entered the rotation after a breakout performance against Auburn on Dec. 4, 2024. In that game, he scored 18 points on an efficient 6-for-8 shooting from beyond the arc, helping the Blue Devils secure a top-4 victory. He ended his freshman year averaging 6.8 points per game.

His willingness to grow as a player was a defining characteristic during his time in Durham. Critics often questioned his defensive capabilities and ability to hold his own against more physical opponents. Evans responded to the challenge by developing a defensive edge, using his length effectively to disrupt plays and becoming a more reliable presence on that side of the ball.

That resilience became a hallmark of his game, especially as a shooter. Evans displayed the mental toughness required to succeed at high levels, maintaining a next-shot mentality regardless of the outcome of his previous attempts. Even during a cold shooting stretch where he missed eight three-pointers against the defending national champion Florida in December, Evans did not hesitate to take and make a crucial go-ahead triple that secured a major non-conference win for the Blue Devils.

As a sophomore, Evans transitioned into a primary offensive weapon for Duke. Operating as the second option alongside national player of the year Cameron Boozer, he took on an increased workload and responsibility. He averaged 15 points per game while shooting 36.1% from three-point range. While his percentage dipped slightly from his freshman mark of 41.6%, the increase in volume demonstrated his ability to carry a scoring load.

Evans also expanded his offensive arsenal. Early criticism labeled him as a one-dimensional player who relied solely on his jump shot. His second season with the Blue Devils silenced those concerns. He showcased improved footwork, allowing him to maneuver around defenders near the block. He attacked the rim with more aggression, utilizing his athleticism to finish with power. Evans also demonstrated an impressive ability to absorb contact, a positive sign for a player looking to make an impact in the physical NBA environment.

His defensive improvements also became more consistent throughout the season. He became a solid shot blocker for his position, using his timing and length to challenge shots effectively. His all-around development prepared him for the professional game and made him a more versatile asset to his new team.

The Timberwolves represent a strong landing spot for Evans. With the team aiming to make a postseason push, they are likely looking for players who can contribute efficiently and provide a spark on the perimeter. Evans’ high-level shooting ability fits the mold of a player who can stretch the floor and complement the team’s established core. His newfound versatility off the bounce and defensive tenacity give him a strong foundation to build upon.

For Evans, the draft is not the final goal but the next step in a lifelong journey dedicated to basketball. As he prepares to head to Minnesota, he carries with him the experience of winning at the high school level, competing in the ACC, and the development that transformed him from a shooter into a complete player. The North Carolina product now looks ahead to the challenges of the NBA, aiming to carve out his role in the league and prove he is more than just a shooter.