Tyrese Proctor Speaks Out for the First Time Over Criticism: “I Will Leave Duke if I’m Not Wanted”
In an exclusive interview, Tyrese Proctor, the once-promising guard for the Duke Blue Devils, opened up about the relentless criticism he’s faced throughout the season. Known for his calm demeanor on and off the court, Proctor’s frustration finally boiled over as he spoke candidly about his struggles, the mounting pressure, and the possibility of leaving the prestigious program.
Sitting down with a small group of reporters after Duke’s latest practice, Proctor, wearing a simple hoodie and his signature headphones, seemed a bit out of character. Typically reserved and soft-spoken, today he was determined to make his voice heard.
“I get it,” he began, his voice steady but tinged with emotion. “I’ve heard the jokes, the criticism, and I know people are questioning whether I belong here. Believe me, I’ve been through a lot. It’s not easy. But let me be clear—I won’t stick around if I’m not wanted. I’ll leave Duke if that’s what they want.”
The words sent shockwaves through the room. Proctor’s admission, which had previously been the subject of rumors and speculation, confirmed what many had feared: the player who once had the world at his feet was now facing a crossroads in his college career.
Tyrese Proctor arrived at Duke University with sky-high expectations. A five-star recruit from Australia, he was expected to be the next great point guard for Coach Jon Scheyer’s program. But the reality has been much different. Proctor’s struggles on the court have been well-documented—his shooting woes, poor decision-making, and lack of consistency have contributed to a disappointing season. Off the court, his attitude and behavior have also been under scrutiny, with reports of growing tensions between him and his teammates, as well as occasional clashes with his coaches.
Despite this, Proctor insisted that his commitment to Duke had never wavered, even in the face of adversity. “I came here because I believed in what this program stood for,” he explained. “But I’m not going to beg anyone to keep me around if they think I’m not good enough. I respect the coaches, my teammates, and the fans, but I’m not going to stay somewhere where I’m not wanted.”
The statement sent the media into a frenzy, with many wondering what this meant for Proctor’s future at the university. Would Duke’s coaching staff try to salvage his career, or was this the beginning of the end for the young guard at one of college basketball’s most iconic programs?
Proctor’s remarks also shed light on the mental toll that constant criticism has taken on him. He revealed that the pressure to succeed at Duke, coupled with the intense public scrutiny, had at times been overwhelming. “It’s tough. Every missed shot, every turnover—people are watching, and they let you know. But I’m not going to let that define me,” he said, his eyes flashing with determination. “I’ve got to play for myself, first and foremost. If I stay, I want to know I’m here because I’ve earned it, not because someone is holding onto hope that I’ll turn it around.”
Coach Jon Scheyer, who has been under his own share of pressure during Duke’s underwhelming season, offered a brief response to Proctor’s comments. “Tyrese is a part of this program, and we’re committed to helping him reach his potential. He’s a talented player, and we’re going to continue working with him to figure out the best path forward.”
However, it’s unclear what that path looks like now. With the Blue Devils struggling to regain their form, the decision on Proctor’s future could have a profound impact on the team’s trajectory.
As for Proctor, his words seemed like a turning point. Whether he stays at Duke or decides to leave remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Tyrese Proctor is no longer content to be a passive figure in his own story. The pressure is mounting, and the next chapter in his career could be one of redemption—or of a fresh start elsewhere.
“I’ll fight for my place here, but if I’m not wanted, I won’t stick around,” Proctor said, standing up to leave. “I’m ready for whatever comes next.”
