[The following scouting report is part of a series on potential 2025 draft prospects from Sports Business Classroom alumni.]

Sion James
Frame: 6’6”, 220 lbs
Position: Guard
School: Duke Blue Devils
2025 Draft Age: 22
Stats via bartttorvik.com and sports-reference.com 

Offense

After a breakout senior year at Tulane, James has established himself as a key role player for the Blue Devils this season. Initially a reserve, James earned the team’s starting point guard spot since the start of ACC play with his ability to initiate the offense while taking care of the basketball. In his 16 conference games as a starter, he boasts an impressive 4-to-1 assist-to-turnover ratio, a testament to his processing speed, vision, and unselfishness.

He is also effective away from the ball, where he sets strong screens, times cuts to the rim well, and powerfully attacks closeouts to maintain advantages.

James is not a high-volume scorer—he averages just five shots per game—but he connects with impressive efficiency (53 percent from the field, 41 percent from three and 82 percent from the line). James loves to get out and run in transition, where his strength and feel for the game shine. While he may never be a go-to scorer or high-usage creator, his playmaking instincts and ability to contribute without the ball give him a foundation for success at the next level.

Defense 

James’ savviness and feel for the game carry over to the defensive side of the court. He defends the opposing team’s lead ball handler in nearly every matchup, a role he takes pride in. He loves picking up full court and always plays at a high energy level. 

He has a monstrous physical frame for a point-of-attack defender—more reminiscent of an NFL linebacker than an NBA point guard. His length and aggressiveness make him a unique and disruptive on-ball defender. His lateral quickness is impressive for his size, and his upper body strength helps him contain drives effectively. With his rare athletic profile, James is well-equipped to guard 1-4 at the next level.

Off the ball, James communicates well and stays sharp in his rotations. He is always active and engaged, directing traffic for a Duke starting unit with three freshmen. James excels as a help defender, producing steals by getting in passing lanes and digging against drivers. He has even flashed some vertical rim defending. His IQ, versatility, and technique make him an intriguing defensive prospect.

Looking ahead

A fitting distinction given his on-court play, James is the only player in AAC history to win the league Sportsmanship Award twice (2023, 2024). He does all the little things that may not appear on the stat sheet but undeniably impact winning. He is a true role player whose versatility, high motor, and willingness to accept a role give him a legitimate chance to stick in the NBA. 

He is currently projected to be a second-round pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.