BOMBSHELL: In a stunning and unexpected move, Duke men’s basketball head coach Jon Scheyer has reportedly sent a powerful and controversial letter to NBA Draft moderators concerning three of the most high-profile prospects in the 2025 draft class: Kon Knueppel, Cooper Flagg, and Khaman Maluach…
The letter, which insiders describe as “bold” and “unprecedented,” questions the draft readiness and NBA fit of the trio — all of whom have been projected as lottery picks.
Sources close to the situation say Scheyer’s letter doesn’t just raise concerns — it calls out specific weaknesses, development gaps, and what he believes are misleading narratives surrounding each player’s NBA potential. Scheyer, who has coached or recruited against all three players, appears to be taking a stand, possibly to shift draft discourse — or even protect his own recruits.
According to one draft insider who reviewed the contents, Scheyer’s criticisms were especially pointed regarding Cooper Flagg, the projected No. 1 pick and Duke’s own freshman phenom. Despite Flagg being considered a generational talent, the letter allegedly outlines concerns about his emotional maturity, decision-making under pressure, and his readiness to handle the NBA spotlight. “Flagg is phenomenal,” the letter reportedly says, “but he’s still 17. His ceiling is high, but if mishandled, he could struggle early — especially on a rebuilding NBA team.”
Even more eyebrow-raising is Scheyer’s evaluation of Kon Knueppel, the Marquette star known for his elite shooting. Scheyer allegedly questioned Knueppel’s defensive versatility and athleticism, claiming that “his game could stall at the next level unless he lands in a very specific system.” It’s a surprising move considering Knueppel’s skyrocketing draft stock and consistent clutch performances throughout the college season.
Perhaps most controversial is Scheyer’s take on Khaman Maluach, the 7-foot-2 center from South Sudan playing for the NBA Academy. While Maluach has been hyped as a defensive anchor with rare agility, Scheyer reportedly labeled him as “raw, with major question marks on offensive feel and game IQ.” Scheyer warned that teams banking on Maluach’s potential might face a long-term project rather than an instant-impact player.
The motivations behind Scheyer’s letter are still unclear. Some insiders speculate that it could be a strategic play to influence draft positioning — especially if any of his current or former players are vying for top slots. Others suggest that Scheyer may be trying to set realistic expectations for young athletes being thrown into the professional firestorm too early.
The NBA and player agents have yet to respond publicly to the letter. However, early reactions from scouts and executives range from “refreshingly honest” to “highly inappropriate.” One executive said, “It’s rare for a college coach to speak this bluntly, especially about his own player. This could shake things up.”
If true, this letter represents a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse into the high-stakes world of NBA Draft politics — where talent, hype, and perception can shift with a single well-placed message.
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