In a groundbreaking move that highlights the shifting landscape of basketball development, top five-star forward Jaylen Cross has officially committed to the Memphis Grizzlies’ NBA G League pathway program, turning down a high-profile offer from Duke and ending one of the most closely watched recruitments in the 2025 class.
Cross, a 6-foot-9 athletic phenom known for his versatility, elite scoring touch, and defensive prowess, had long been considered a strong lean toward Duke, a school with a rich tradition of grooming NBA talent. However, after months of evaluating his options, the Georgia native opted for a professional route with the Grizzlies’ developmental affiliate, aiming to fast-track his path to the NBA while receiving hands-on pro-level coaching and financial backing.
“This was all about preparing for the next level,” Cross said in a statement. “I’ve got love for Duke and what they’ve built, but I felt that being in a pro system right away, learning from NBA minds, and competing against grown men every day is what’s best for me and my family.”
The Grizzlies’ developmental program, which includes both their G League affiliate and a private training initiative modeled similarly to the NBA’s G League Ignite program, has been gaining traction with elite high school talent. The program promises top-tier facilities, guaranteed contracts, and daily instruction from seasoned NBA coaches and trainers—something that proved enticing for Cross.
For Duke, this is a rare recruiting miss. The Blue Devils had invested significant time in recruiting Cross, pitching him on being the centerpiece of their 2025 class. Head coach Jon Scheyer personally led the charge, envisioning Cross as the next in a long line of elite Blue Devil forwards like Zion Williamson, Jayson Tatum, and Brandon Ingram.
Still, this decision reflects a broader trend in basketball, where elite prospects are increasingly opting for alternative routes to the NBA—whether it be G League, overseas, or professional training academies—over traditional college programs.
The Grizzlies, meanwhile, are thrilled. Not only does this help them build one of the most promising developmental systems in the league, but it also allows the franchise to shape Cross’s game to fit seamlessly into an NBA roster by the time he’s draft-eligible.
As Cross begins his transition to professional basketball, all eyes will be on how he adapts to the physicality and pace of the pro game. If his high school dominance is any indication, the Grizzlies may have just secured a future star—before he ever stepped foot on a college campus.