​After taking an unconventional route through three different college programs, Duke Brennan is aiming to translate his reputation as one of college basketball’s premier rebounders into a professional opportunity with the Brooklyn Nets. The 6-foot-10, 250-pound big man joins Brooklyn’s Summer League roster after going undrafted in the 2026 NBA Draft. Known for his relentless motor, physicality, and elite rebounding ability, Brennan will look to impress the Nets coaching staff as he competes for a training camp invitation and potentially a spot with the Long Island Nets next season.
Brennan began his collegiate career at Arizona State, appearing in 36 games as a freshman and gaining valuable experience at the Power Five level. After one season with the Sun Devils, he transferred to Grand Canyon, where his game began to take off. Over two seasons with the Lopes, Brennan developed into one of the Western Athletic Conference’s top frontcourt players. He started 65 games, earned Second Team All-WAC honors during his junior season, and helped Grand Canyon reach the NCAA Tournament. His blend of physical play, efficient scoring, and relentless rebounding made him one of the conference’s most productive big men.
For his senior season, Brennan transferred to Villanova to play under first-year head coach Kevin Willard. The move proved to be the best decision of his college career, as he enjoyed his most productive season while serving as the veteran leader of a rebuilt Wildcats roster. Starting all 32 games, Brennan averaged 12.4 points, 10.3 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 0.8 steals, and 0.5 blocks while shooting an impressive 65.8 percent from the field in 31.0 minutes per game. He finished among the nation’s top rebounders, recording numerous double-doubles and consistently controlling the glass on both ends of the floor. One of the most memorable performances of his career came early in the season when he logged a career-high 20 rebounds against Queens, becoming the first Villanova player to reach the 20-rebound mark since Daniel Ochefu accomplished the feat in 2015.
Brennan went undrafted in the 2026 NBA Draft before earning a Summer League opportunity with Brooklyn. While he isn’t viewed as a traditional NBA prospect with high-end upside, his ability to dominate the glass and embrace a physical role gives him a credible chance to earn a professional contract. The Summer League will be Brennan’s first opportunity to prove he can impact games against NBA-level competition. A strong showing could put him in contention for an Exhibit 10 contract, a training camp invite, or a roster spot with the Long Island Nets as he begins his professional career.
Brennan’s greatest strength is his rebounding. He plays with a nonstop motor and consistently wins possessions through effort, positioning, and toughness. Whether crashing the offensive glass for second-chance opportunities or pursuing tough boards on the defensive end, his tenacity on the glass stands out. In addition to his rebounding, he brings a physicality to the frontcourt, displays efficient finishing around the rim, and can contribute as a secondary playmaker with solid ball-handling and passing instincts. As he transitions to the professional level, Brennan’s willingness to embrace a gritty, physical role could make him a versatile piece for teams seeking frontcourt depth and a fearless rebounder who can change the momentum of games with timely boards.