League Next. Duke Forever: Scheyer Confirms Flagg and Proctor to Stay Another Season…

League Next. Duke Forever: Scheyer Confirms Flagg and Proctor to Stay Another Season…

Durham, N.C. — In a move that sent waves through college basketball, Duke head coach Jon Scheyer confirmed that star players Cooper Flagg and Tyrese Proctor have informed the program of their decision to return to Duke for another season. The announcement, which came amid speculation that both players might declare for the NBA Draft, reaffirms Duke’s commitment to contending at the highest level of college basketball.

Scheyer, speaking at a team event on campus Friday evening, expressed both pride and excitement in the players’ decisions. “Cooper and Tyrese are the foundation of what we’re building,” he said. “They believe in Duke, and they believe in what we’re doing together. It says a lot about their character, and it says a lot about where we’re headed.”

Flagg, a Rising Superstar

Cooper Flagg, one of the most highly anticipated prospects in recent history, entered his freshman year at Duke with enormous expectations—and delivered. The versatile forward showcased elite shot-blocking, smooth offensive skills, and an infectious competitive spirit that quickly made him a fan favorite.

Despite being projected as a top pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, Flagg is choosing to stay in Durham to refine his game and chase a national championship.

“I came to Duke to be part of something bigger than myself,” Flagg said in a statement. “This place, these coaches, my teammates, and the fans—it’s special. I’m not done here yet.”

Proctor’s Steady Growth

Tyrese Proctor, now entering his third season with the Blue Devils, has developed into one of the most reliable guards in college basketball. Known for his court vision, defensive prowess, and leadership, Proctor’s decision to return adds experience and poise to a team with national title aspirations.

“I still have work to do, and I want to do it with Duke,” Proctor said. “Coach Scheyer and I have a vision, and we’re not finished chasing it.”

Duke’s National Outlook

With Flagg and Proctor staying, Duke immediately becomes one of the preseason favorites for the 2025 NCAA Tournament. The team will blend elite young talent with experienced leadership, a formula that has historically brought deep tournament runs to the program.

Analysts across the country are already adjusting their rankings, with some labeling Duke the early favorite for next season’s championship. “This is a huge statement from the players and from the program,” said ESPN’s Jay Bilas. “In today’s college basketball climate, getting even one player to return is rare. Getting two stars like this? That’s special.”

“League Next. Duke Forever.”

The phrase that’s been circulating around Duke’s campus and social media—“League next. Duke forever.”—perfectly encapsulates the mood in Durham. While both Flagg and Proctor are destined for the NBA, their commitment to Duke in the short term has fans dreaming big.

With this core intact and a deep roster behind them, the Blue Devils will enter the new season with high expectations and even higher motivation.

The message is clear: the league can wait. Duke comes first.