The Perth Wildcats have secured American guard David Duke Jr, pending formal NBL approval, to replace Mason Jones as the final import spot on their roster. The signing adds proven NBA experience to the backcourt and, hopefully, is the missing piece in the roster.
Duke Jr commented, “I’m thrilled to be joining the Wildcats and becoming part of such a respected organisation. This is a club with a proud tradition of success, and I’m looking forward to doing whatever I can to help the team compete for another championship in front of the incredible Red Army!”
Standing at 6’5”, Duke Jr joins the Wildcats after four years across the NBA and G League, including time with the Brooklyn Nets, San Antonio Spurs, and Phoenix Suns. He most recently averaged 17.0 points, 5.9 rebounds, 3.5 assists, and 1.5 steals across 42 games for the Austin Spurs during the 2024–25 G League season.
Before turning professional, Duke Jr starred at Providence College, earning All-BIG EAST honours in 2021, and also represented Team USA at the 2019 Pan American Games.
Wildcats General Manager of Basketball Operations and COO Danny Mills said the club was confident Duke Jr’s arrival would strengthen the team’s push for another title.
“We’re excited to welcome David to Perth. He brings four years of NBA and G League experience, great positional size, and is a high-level athlete who competes on both ends of the court,” Mills said. “His ability to get downhill and put pressure on the rim is an attribute we’ve been looking for, and his versatility will allow him to contribute to winning in multiple different lineups.”
Head Coach John Rillie added, “With David joining us, he will allow our defence to continue to grow as he’s elite at the guard spot. “He’s a dynamic open-court player who will generate some easier baskets, something this team has lacked to date.”
David Duke Jr is expected to arrive in Perth early next week to join his new teammates.
