Duke University is set to honor one of its most iconic athletes, Christian Laettner, with the unveiling of a statue commemorating his legendary college basketball career. The statue will be installed outside Cameron Indoor Stadium, serving as a lasting tribute to Laettner’s contributions to the Blue Devils’ storied history.
Laettner’s tenure at Duke from 1988 to 1992 was marked by remarkable achievements. He played a pivotal role in leading the Blue Devils to four consecutive Final Four appearances and securing back-to-back national championships in 1991 and 1992. His most memorable moment came during the 1992 NCAA East Regional Final against Kentucky, where his buzzer-beating shot secured a 104–103 victory, a play that remains one of the most iconic in college basketball history.
Beyond his collegiate success, Laettner was the only college player selected for the 1992 U.S. Olympic “Dream Team,” which won the gold medal in dominant fashion. He went on to have a 13-year NBA career, playing for several teams and earning an All-Star selection in 1997.
The decision to honor Laettner with a statue reflects his enduring legacy at Duke and his impact on the sport. His jersey number 32 was retired by the university in 1992, and he has been inducted into both the Duke Sports Hall of Fame and the National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame.
The unveiling ceremony is expected to draw alumni, fans, and former teammates, celebrating Laettner’s contributions to Duke basketball. As the university continues to honor its rich athletic history, the statue will stand as a symbol of excellence and a source of inspiration for future generations of Blue Devils.
