Player Profile: Khalil Dukes

By Nik Hogan

Knightly News Reporter

nikolai.hadleyhogan@mymail.centralpenn.edu

Khalil Dukes, a player for the Central Penn College men’s basketball team, has always been drawn to the sport, a passion he gained from his older brother. Growing up in Baltimore, Dukes was inspired to follow in his brother’s footsteps, as his success in sports made him a figure to look up to and aspire to be like. As Dukes developed his game, basketball became not just a sport but a significant source of enjoyment and a major part of his life.

Dukes’ basketball history is filled with highlights, but one stands out above the rest. In high school, his team’s improbable victory in a regional championship game left a lasting impression on him.

“We weren’t the favorites,” he said. “The game went into two overtimes. Winning that was an amazing experience.”

This victory, where his team defied the odds, is a testament to his tenacity and belief in the power of not just doing great by yourself, but by embracing teamwork.

Every athlete faces setbacks, and for Dukes, it was no different. Last season, an ankle sprain and bone bruise posed one of the biggest challenges in his basketball experience. He was forced to sit out all last season and found himself in unfamiliar territory. Leading the team without being on the court was a new challenge for him.

“It was tough at first, but I had to learn how to be a vocal leader,” he said.

This experience tested his resilience, honed his leadership skills and prepared him for his role as captain this season.

When asked who inspires him, Dukes points to his brother but also mentions NBA legend LeBron James.

“LeBron’s impact on basketball is huge,” Dukes said, “but what inspires me even more is how he handles himself off the court, with class and a businessman attitude. That’s something I admire.”

Like his role model, Dukes hopes to make an impact in basketball and beyond.

As team captain, Dukes sees himself not only as a leader but also as someone held accountable by his teammates and coaches.

“I have a really great relationship with them,” he said. “My teammates know they can count on me, and my coaches hold me to high standards. I embrace that.”

This responsibility further fuels his drive to push himself and his team to greater heights.

Looking ahead, Dukes has his sites set on the NBA, with a backup plan to play professional basketball overseas. While the road ahead is uncertain, one thing is clear: His passion for the game and dedication to self-improvement will continue to guide him toward success.

Dukes embodies what it means to be a leader on and off the court, not only through his skills in basketball but also through his resilience, ambition and ability to inspire those around him.