Blue Devil Country

Duke Basketball Talent Matthew Hurt Finalizes Next Career Move

The former two-year Duke basketball forward heads down under for his fourth season as a pro.

Matt Giles

Former Duke basketball forward Matthew Hurt
Former Duke basketball forward Matthew Hurt / Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports
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Almost three years after going undrafted in 2021 following his Duke basketball sophomore campaign, Matthew Hurt made his NBA debut last season while on 10-day contracts with the Memphis Grizzlies. The 6-foot-9, 235-pound sharpshooter saw action in eight games, averaging 4.0 points and 2.0 rebounds in 14.1 minutes per outing.

ALSO READ: Former Duke Teammates Set Reuniting in Phoenix Next Season

But with no guarantee of having an opportunity to build on those efforts in the NBA next season, the 24-year-old stretch-four, a former five-star McDonald's All-American from Minnesota, has decided to take his talents overseas for the first time in his professional career.

This week, Australia's National Basketball League announced that Hurt has signed a one-year deal with the South East Melbourne Phoenix.

Before foregoing his remaining eligibility in Durham, Hurt became the ACC Most Improved Player and an All-ACC First Team selection despite the 2020-21 Duke basketball squad finishing 13-11 overall and falling short of an NCAA Tournament invite.

Matthew Hurt spent the past three seasons playing for the Memphis Hustle in the G League.

Although he's battled more than his fair share of injuries, he's put up lofty numbers. Last season, Hurt averaged career-highs with his 20.5 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks across 22 appearances with the Hustle.

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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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