Gillis Brings Veteran Presence and Versatility to Duke's Frontcourt

In his formal introduction to Cameron Indoor Stadium during Duke's Countdown to Craziness event on Friday night, graduate forward Mason Gillis showcased his well-rounded skillset, contributing five points, six rebounds, one steal, and zero turnovers in the Blue-White Scrimmage. While his stat line may be indicative of a typical Gillis performance, the 23-year-old's blend of experience and team-first mentality make him a valuable asset for the Blue Devils this season.

A Seasoned Veteran Poised to Make an Impact

Proven Track Record at Purdue

Mason Gillis arrives at Duke with a wealth of experience, having suited up for 132 games across his four-year career at Purdue. As a senior, the 6-foot-6, 225-pound forward averaged 6.5 points and 3.9 rebounds per game, while shooting an impressive 47.9% from the field, 46.8% from beyond the arc, and 86.0% from the free-throw line. Gillis' consistent production and efficiency earned him the Big Ten Sixth Man of the Year award, showcasing his ability to make an impact off the bench.

Versatility and Team-First Mentality

Gillis' versatility on both ends of the floor is a key asset for the Blue Devils. As CBS Sports college hoops insider Jon Rothstein noted, the Indiana native is "capable of stretching the defense on offense or guarding the low post on defense." This adaptability allows Gillis to seamlessly fit into various lineup configurations and contribute in a variety of ways. Moreover, Rothstein praised Gillis' "undeniable team-first mentality," a trait that aligns perfectly with Jon Scheyer's emphasis on selfless play and collective success.

Embracing the Duke Basketball Tradition

For Gillis, joining the Duke basketball program is the realization of a lifelong dream. As a self-proclaimed "lifelong Duke basketball fan," the graduate transfer is eager to don the iconic Blue Devils uniform and contribute to the program's storied legacy. His passion for the game and commitment to the team's success will undoubtedly inspire his teammates and fuel Duke's pursuit of another championship.

Primed for a Breakout Season

With his wealth of experience, versatility, and team-first mindset, Mason Gillis is poised to play a pivotal role in Jon Scheyer's third campaign as the Blue Devils' head coach. As the team prepares for their season opener against Maine on November 4th, Gillis' steady presence and well-rounded skill set will be invaluable in helping the Blue Devils navigate the challenges of the upcoming season.