Former Northern Iowa star AJ Green considering return to college, Duke atop his list

Former Northern Iowa star AJ Green is considering a return to college after entering his name into the draft last month without hiring an agent. At the G League Elite Camp Monday afternoon, Green caught up with Sports Illustrated’s Kevin Sweeney to discuss where he’s at regarding a final decision, and which schools he’ll choose between if he were to take his name out of the draft.

“He told me he’s talking to two schools from the transfer portal should he return to CBB: Iowa State and Duke,” Sweeney wrote. “Green had 11 points and 3 assists today and says his focus right now is on the draft process.”

The 6-foot-4 shooting guard has been the superstar of the Missouri Valley over the past four seasons, averaging 18.8 points while shooting 38.7% from the 3-point line in 2021 after averaging 19.7 points and shooting 39.1% from deep in 2019-20.

He missed all but three games in 2020-21 due to a hip injury and ended his career as a two-time Missouri Valley Conference Player of the Year and would be a valuable asset to new Blue Devils head coach in his inaugural season following the retirement of longtime headman Mike Krzyzewksi.

Harvard grad transfer Kale Catchings commits to Duke

Harvard graduate transfer Kale Catchings has committed to Duke, he tells On3.

The 6-foot-6, 220-pound small forward averaged 9.1 points on 49.7% from the field and four assists last season for the Crimson.

“I chose Duke because it is the opportunity of a lifetime,” Catchings said to On3. “To be able to partner a first-class master’s degree along with the chance to compete at the highest level of college basketball in my final year of eligibility is a dream come true. I look forward to bringing my experience and grit to the storied program as we strive to hang another banner. Go Duke!”

Catchings has spent his last four seasons at Harvard, earning a degree in economics. He did not play during his junior year, due to the season cancelation by the Ivy League. Prior to Harvard, Catchings attended Christian Brothers College high school in Saint Louis. 

Catchings comes from a heritage of basketball players. His aunt, Tamika Catchings, was a four-time Olympic gold medalist in basketball, and a WNBA MVP and champion. His grandfather, Harvey Catchings, played in the NBA for 11 seasons.