In a rare and powerful move, Duke Blue Devils’ incoming star Cooper Flagg has thrown his support behind a rising high school basketball talent, urging the program to take a serious look at a player he believes mirrors his own journey. The endorsement has caused a buzz in the college basketball world, as Flagg’s influence continues to grow both on and off the court.
Flagg, the No. 1 recruit in the class of 2024 and a future face of Duke basketball, took to social media and interviews this week to spotlight 16-year-old Elijah Harmon, a 6-foot-8 forward from Massachusetts who has been turning heads with his versatility, high basketball IQ, and relentless motor. According to Flagg, Harmon “reminds me of myself when I was coming up — same hunger, same mindset.”
Sources close to Duke confirmed that Flagg has already spoken to head coach Jon Scheyer and the Blue Devils’ staff about Harmon, suggesting the program begin scouting him more closely. “I think he’s a Duke guy through and through,” Flagg reportedly told team insiders. “He plays the right way, competes on every possession, and he’s only going to get better.”
Harmon, currently ranked just outside the ESPN Top 100, has seen a surge in recruitment interest over the past few months, but Flagg’s backing could shift the narrative entirely. Analysts now believe Harmon could be in line for a major rankings jump as the AAU season unfolds and more scouts take notice.
When asked about the endorsement, Harmon was humbled. “For Cooper to even know who I am is crazy,” he said. “He’s someone I look up to — not just because of his game, but because of how he carries himself. To hear that he sees something in me is motivation to work even harder.”
Flagg’s recommendation also speaks to his growing leadership role at Duke, even before playing a single college game. It’s not common for incoming freshmen to influence recruiting strategies, but Flagg’s status as a generational prospect gives him a voice that Duke clearly respects.
Recruiting experts suggest that Flagg’s relationship with Harmon began during last year’s elite basketball camp circuit, where the two briefly trained together. Observers noted their on-court chemistry, with both players showing a strong understanding of team play, defense, and spacing — hallmarks of Duke’s system.
If Harmon eventually lands in Durham, it could mark the start of a new recruiting pipeline shaped by Flagg’s input. For now, Duke fans will be keeping a close watch on Elijah Harmon’s development, knowing their future star has already given him the ultimate seal of approval.
With AAU tournaments on the horizon and Harmon’s profile rising, the next few months will be critical. But with Cooper Flagg in his corner, the young forward may be on the fast track to joining one of college basketball’s most storied programs.
