Nolan Traore, a 6-foot-5 guard from France and a projected 2025 NBA lottery pick, has opted to stay in his home country rather than pursue college basketball in the United States. Although he never publicized a Duke basketball offer or any visits from the Blue Devils’ coaching staff, it’s clear that Jon Scheyer and his team showed significant interest in the talented 18-year-old.
According to a Saturday morning feature by ESPN’s Jonathan Givony, Traore “spurned offers from across the globe to remain in his home country,” choosing to sign with the French basketball club Saint-Quentin. Givony reported that top programs such as Duke, Arkansas, Gonzaga, and Alabama were all in the mix for Traore’s commitment.
“It was cool to have all these programs interested in me,” Traore told Givony.
Traore’s decision to stay in France allows him to continue developing in a familiar environment while playing professionally. Givony noted that Traore is quickly climbing the ranks on 2025 NBA Draft boards due to his standout performances in various global venues this spring. Originally projected as a lottery pick in ESPN’s first 2025 mock draft published in February, Traore is now expected to be ranked in the top five in the next update.
Known for his crafty, tempo-pushing style on the perimeter, Traore’s decision to sign with Saint-Quentin highlights his commitment to his roots and his belief in the development opportunities within the French basketball system. As he continues to hone his skills in France, the basketball world will be watching closely, anticipating his potential impact on the NBA in the near future.