Blue Devil Country

Former Duke Basketball Forward Matthew Hurt Enjoys Career-High Night

A call-up to the NBA isn't out of the question for the Duke basketball product if he continues to sizzle.

Matt Giles

Photo credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
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Despite breaking his hand less than two months ago, Matthew Hurt has routinely caught fire across the eight games since his return to the Memphis Hustle lineup in the NBA G League. And on Tuesday night, the 2019-21 Duke basketball bucket-getter delivered his most impressive box score as a professional.

Hurt, who went undrafted following his two seasons as a Blue Devil and has never played in an NBA game, showcased his scoring ability and improved versatility in the Hustle's 106-104 home win over the Ontario Clippers.

The 23-year-old forward finished with a career-high 36 points on 12-for-19 shooting from the field, 6-for-9 from deep, and 3-for-4 at the line. He added nine rebounds, three assists, and three blocks in his 38 minutes on the floor.

Through his eight outings this season, his third with the Memphis Grizzlies' G League affiliate, Matthew Hurt is averaging 25.8 points, 7.6 boards, 1.5 assists, and 2.1 blocks per contest while shooting 56.8 percent from the field, 44.8 percent beyond the arc, and 80.0 percent at the charity stripe.

Hurt, the 2020-21 ACC Most Improved Player and an All-ACC First Team selection, was one of four in the heralded 2019 Duke basketball recruiting class who turned pro early, along with three-year Blue Devil Wendell Moore Jr. and one-and-done talents Vernon Carey Jr. and Cassius Stanley.

Moore, in his second year with the Minnesota Timberwolves, is the only one from that bunch in the NBA.

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Matt Giles
MATT GILES

Matt Giles is the editor and publisher of Duke Blue Devils on SI, North Carolina Tar Heels on SI, and NC State Wolfpack on SI, making him a key source for comprehensive coverage of these storied college basketball programs. Since joining SI in 2022, Matt has been dedicated to providing in-depth analysis, breaking news, and exclusive content on all three teams. He covers everything from game previews and recaps to player profiles and recruiting updates. Matt's expert knowledge of these teams has made his work a go-to resource for fans and followers of Duke, NC State, and UNC. As publisher, he shapes the editorial direction, ensuring that the most relevant and timely information reaches his audience.

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