The NBA playoff picture is finally set, and for fans of Duke basketball, the bracket is a sight to behold. The "Brotherhood" is out in full force, with former Blue Devils poised to make a major impact on the quest for the Larry O'Brien Trophy.

While the Charlotte Hornets' season ended in the play-in tournament with a loss to Orlando, it was a breakout year for rookie Kon Knueppel. The sharpshooter didn't just lead all first-year players; he made history by sinking an NBA-best 273 three-pointers, a new rookie record that highlights the elite scoring talent coming out of Durham.

With the play-in games concluded, the playoff field is locked. In the Eastern Conference, five teams feature Duke alumni, while another five in the Western Conference boast former Blue Devils. That means with 16 teams in the mix, there's a very strong chance a member of the Brotherhood will be celebrating with a championship ring in June.

The odds look even better when you consider the contenders involved. Powerhouses like the Boston Celtics, Oklahoma City Thunder, and San Antonio Spurs all have Duke products on their rosters. From Grayson Allen providing veteran leadership in Phoenix to rising stars scattered across the league, the influence of Duke's program is undeniable on basketball's biggest stage.

As the intensity of the playoffs begins, it's clear that the legacy of Duke basketball extends far beyond Cameron Indoor Stadium. The camaraderie, skill, and winning mentality cultivated there are now key ingredients in the championship aspirations of teams across the NBA.