STAY AT DUKE OR GO TO THE NBA? WHERE COOPER FLAGG STANDS WITH HIS DECISION

STAY AT DUKE OR GO TO THE NBA? WHERE COOPER FLAGG STANDS WITH HIS DECISION

 

In the world of college basketball, few names have sparked as much buzz in recent memory as Cooper Flagg. The 6’9” forward from Newport, Maine, who reclassified to the class of 2024 and committed to Duke University, has been under the microscope since his high school days at Montverde Academy. With the NBA Draft on the horizon and the new rules around NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) reshaping the college sports landscape, the question on everyone’s mind is: will Cooper Flagg stay at Duke, or will he declare for the NBA after his freshman year?

 

Flagg, known for his elite shot-blocking, high basketball IQ, and versatile offensive skill set, has already been projected as a potential No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. Despite not yet playing a minute of college basketball, scouts and analysts alike have drawn comparisons between Flagg and generational talents like Kevin Durant and Larry Bird. His rare combination of size, skill, and competitiveness makes him one of the most hyped prospects of the past decade.

 

So where does Flagg stand with his decision?

 

As of now, all indications are that Cooper Flagg intends to play at least one full season at Duke before making any decisions about turning pro. In interviews, Flagg has emphasized his commitment to developing his game under head coach Jon Scheyer, embracing the challenge of leading a top-tier college program, and experiencing the legacy of Duke basketball.

 

“I chose Duke because it felt like home, and I trust the coaching staff to help me grow,” Flagg said in a recent interview. “I’m focused on being the best teammate I can be and helping us win. That’s all I’m thinking about right now.”

 

Sources close to Flagg suggest that while he is fully aware of the NBA buzz surrounding him, he is taking a deliberate, mature approach to his future. With the opportunity to make substantial income through NIL deals—rumored to be in the high six to low seven figures—Flagg doesn’t face the same financial pressure that pushed many past players to go pro early.

 

Duke, meanwhile, is expected to be a national title contender next season, with Flagg as the centerpiece of a highly touted recruiting class. The Blue Devils’ faithful are already counting down the days until they see him suit up in Cameron Indoor Stadium.

 

While it’s almost a given that Flagg will eventually declare for the NBA, whether that happens after one season or later remains to be seen. For now, he seems focused on embracing the college experience and helping Duke hang another banner in the rafters.

 

Until then, the basketball world will be watching every step Cooper Flagg takes—on and off the court.