Wildcats Multicultural Stories: David Duke Jr

Raised in Rhode Island, Duke Jr grew up within a family environment where culture and connection were central.

Those foundations, influenced by Jamaican and Liberian heritage, continue to guide him as his career takes him across the world.

“My family has been my biggest influence,” he says. “A lot of my life today is because of how my parents raised me.”

Sport became a natural extension of that upbringing. Living close to Boston placed Duke in a region defined by its passion for sport, and his parents encouraged him to explore a wide range of activities from a young age.

“Growing up in Rhode Island was amazing,” he says. “The culture of sports was huge, and being close to Boston, sport was always around.”

Rather than specialising early, Duke Jr moved between sports throughout his childhood. Soccer was his first introduction, followed by football, baseball and basketball, each contributing to his development.

“I pretty much did everything,” he says. “It wasn’t until high school that I had to choose.”

While basketball eventually became his focus, Duke Jr acknowledges the influence of all those experiences and the people who helped shape him along the way.

Beyond his immediate family, coaches and older mentors played an important role, offering guidance and perspective during his formative years.

As basketball opened doors internationally, Duke Jr began to see his background through a broader lens. Travel, he says, has deepened his appreciation for where he comes from.

“I can’t imagine seeing the world the way I have without basketball,” he says. “It’s given me opportunities I’m really grateful for.”

Despite those opportunities, home remains defined by people rather than place.

“My family, my dogs, my rhythm of life,” he says. “That’s what I miss most.”

His heritage remains an important part of his identity. Duke Jr proudly acknowledges his Jamaican and Liberian roots.

“I really want to go,” he says. “It’s something we talk about a lot.”

A future trip to Liberia, in particular, carries deep significance.

“I think it would be emotional,” he says. “Seeing where my parents grew up and understanding more about that part of my history.”

Ahead of the Wildcats’ Multicultural Game, Duke Jr views the occasion as a moment to recognise the diversity within basketball and the wider community it connects.

“At its core, basketball is a kids’ game,” he says. “But it connects people from all walks of life, all over the world.”

His message to young fans reflects that same perspective.

“Appreciate the opportunities and the people you meet along the way,” he says. “You never know where the game can take you.”

As the Perth Wildcats celebrate multiculturalism, David Duke Jr’s story reflects the many backgrounds and experiences that continue to shape the club both on and off the court.