physical, high-motor Duke center with a blue-collar edge
Marshall Plumlee was a reliable, defense-first Duke center known for his size, rebounding, and rim protection; in his 2015-16 Duke season, he played in 124 career games, started 36, and averaged 3.4 points and 3.8 rebounds, while USA Basketball noted he brought 5.0 rebounds per game and strong field-goal efficiency in international play.[6][9] His differentiators were toughness, coachability, and team-first value rather than scoring volume—plus the unusual leadership and discipline that came from serving as a captain and later pursuing Army Ranger training, which speaks to intensity and maturity.[8][2]