Duke C Patrick Ngongba II returning to Blue Devils, withdraws from NBA Draft originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Blue Devils’ starting center announced Monday that he will return to Durham for the 2026–27 season, bypassing the NBA draft after initially emerging as a borderline first-round prospect. The decision gives Duke a major boost in the frontcourt and solidifies the foundation of a team expected to contend nationally.

Ngongba, a 6-foot-11 sophomore, was one of the ACC’s breakout players last season. He earned honorable mention All-ACC recognition while averaging 10.1 points, 5.8 rebounds and 2.0 assists per game, numbers that only tell part of the story of his impact. His development on both ends of the floor turned him into one of the conference’s most reliable two-way big men.

Defensively, Ngongba anchored one of the nation’s elite units. His rim protection, mobility and ability to switch onto smaller players made Duke difficult to score against, particularly in half-court settings. He also showed steady growth offensively, improving his touch around the basket and becoming a more confident passer out of double teams.

NBA scouts were intrigued by that trajectory. Ngongba’s size, defensive versatility and upward trend placed him squarely in the conversation as a late first-round selection in June’s draft. Ultimately, he opted for another year of development, a move that could significantly raise his long-term draft stock.

For Duke, the return is massive. Experienced big men with Ngongba’s skill set are increasingly rare in college basketball, and his presence provides continuity for a roster that will likely feature a mix of returning contributors and high-level recruits. His leadership and familiarity with the system should also help stabilize the team early in the season.

Ngongba decision reflects a growing trend among borderline prospects choosing development over immediate entry into the draft. With another productive season, he could position himself as a more polished and higher-valued NBA prospect.