Shannon Sharpe Takes Aim at Duke Fans Clinging to Hopes of Cooper Flagg’s Return
Sports commentator and former NFL star Shannon Sharpe has stirred up college basketball circles once again—this time by mocking hopeful Duke fans who still believe Cooper Flagg might don the Blue Devils’ jersey next season.
On a recent episode of Nightcap with Unc and Ocho, Sharpe didn’t mince words as he addressed lingering rumors and fan theories that Flagg, the highly touted high school phenom, could reverse course and commit to Duke despite growing signs he’s preparing for a professional career.
“Y’all still think Cooper Flagg is coming back to Duke?” Sharpe said, shaking his head. “Stop it. That man is gone. Let that dream go—he’s already thinking about the league.”
Sharpe’s comments quickly caught fire across social media, with clips circulating widely and drawing both laughter and backlash. Many Duke fans pushed back, accusing the outspoken analyst of being dismissive and unnecessarily harsh. Others, however, agreed with his assessment, noting that Flagg’s recent moves—including rumored connections to NBA development programs and private training—signal a clear intention to skip college basketball altogether.
Cooper Flagg, considered one of the most elite basketball prospects of his generation, had previously committed to Duke, igniting excitement across the college basketball world. But with the ever-changing landscape of the NCAA, including the influence of NIL deals and alternative pathways to the NBA, Flagg’s trajectory seems to be shifting.
Sharpe’s jab reflects a broader truth in modern sports: the line between college commitment and professional preparation is increasingly blurred. Top recruits like Flagg are now weighing opportunities that offer quicker access to pro-level competition, financial incentives, and career growth—often bypassing even the most iconic college programs.
Despite Sharpe’s blunt delivery, his message resonates with a reality many college fans are slowly accepting: the game is changing, and so are the decisions of its brightest young stars.
Whether Cooper Flagg ever suits up in Duke blue remains uncertain. But one thing is clear—if he doesn’t, Shannon Sharpe will be among the first to say, ”
I told you so.”
