Exciting Announcement Regarding Former Duke Blue Devils Stars Cooper Flagg and Kon Knueppel
In a momentous night for Duke Basketball, former Blue Devils standouts Cooper Flagg and Kon Knueppel made headlines with a historic showing at the 2025 NBA Draft. Both players, who led Duke to one of its most successful seasons in recent memory, were selected in the top five—solidifying their status as two of college basketball’s brightest young stars and setting the tone for what could be long and successful professional careers.
Flagg, widely regarded as the top prospect in the draft, was selected No. 1 overall by the Dallas Mavericks, becoming the first Blue Devil since Kyrie Irving in 2011 to be taken with the top pick. His freshman season at Duke was nothing short of remarkable, earning him multiple accolades including ACC Player of the Year, ACC Rookie of the Year, and the prestigious Wooden Award. Averaging nearly 20 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 assists per game, Flagg demonstrated a rare blend of athleticism, skill, and basketball IQ that made him the consensus best player in college basketball.
Shortly after Flagg’s name was called, his Duke teammate Kon Knueppel was selected No. 4 overall by the Charlotte Hornets, giving Duke two top-five picks in the same draft for the first time in school history. Knueppel, a versatile wing known for his high basketball IQ, sharpshooting, and clutch performances, was a critical part of Duke’s success throughout the season—especially during the ACC Tournament, where he earned Tournament MVP honors. He averaged over 15 points per game on better than 40% shooting from beyond the arc and was praised for his poise and leadership on and off the court.
Their joint success on draft night was more than just a milestone for Duke—it was a celebration of chemistry, growth, and brotherhood. Cameras captured an emotional moment as Flagg, in the middle of his post-selection interview, jumped up in excitement upon hearing Knueppel’s name called just minutes later. The two players, who developed a close bond during their time at Duke, embraced backstage as they now prepare to take their talents to the NBA.
“This is what we dreamed about,” Flagg said after the ceremony. “To go through this journey together and now be picked top five—it’s unreal.”
Duke head coach Jon Scheyer released a statement congratulating both players, calling them “program-changers” and praising their dedication, humility, and leadership throughout the season. “They’ve made a lasting impact on Duke basketball,” Scheyer said. “Now the world gets to see what we already knew—they’re special.”
With Flagg heading to a retooling Dallas Mavericks squad and Knueppel joining an exciting young Hornets core, both players are expected to play key roles from day one. For Duke fans, it’s a proud moment. For the NBA, it’s the arrival of two future stars. And for Flagg and Knueppel, it’s just the beginning of the next chapter in an already unforgettable story.
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