The college basketball world was shaken this week as two rising stars, Ben Saraf and Tyrese Proctor, officially declared for the 2025 NBA Draft. The news has sparked a wave of reactions from coaches, analysts, and fans alike — but none more heartfelt than Duke sensation Cooper Flagg, who took to social media with a raw, emotional message: “They’re all leaving… Who am I going to build a team with?”
Tyrese Proctor, the skilled guard who made his mark at Duke over the past two seasons, had been a key figure in the team’s backcourt. With his smooth handle, smart decision-making, and defensive tenacity, Proctor quickly grew into a leadership role and was expected to be a cornerstone of next season’s roster.
Ben Saraf, the dynamic playmaker from Israel, also surprised fans by making the leap to the pros. Known for his aggressive scoring and clutch performances, Saraf was widely seen as a breakout star on the rise. His declaration adds yet another elite talent to an already competitive draft class.
For Cooper Flagg, who committed to Duke with dreams of building something special, the departures hit hard. Still in his first year, Flagg envisioned forming a powerhouse with teammates like Proctor and Saraf. His comment reflects not just disappointment, but the weight of expectations suddenly shifted onto his shoulders.
With two major talents gone, Duke faces a major challenge in rebuilding chemistry and leadership. Proctor and Saraf were more than just skilled players — they were voices in the locker room, engines on the court, and dependable presences in crunch time.
Flagg, now the centerpiece of the program, must quickly adapt to a role that demands more than just stats. He’ll be asked to lead, to mentor, and to inspire a new core of teammates — some of whom have never played a college minute. The pressure is immense, but so is the opportunity.
These declarations serve as a reminder of the fast-changing nature of college basketball. One season, a team is filled with experience and promise — the next, it’s scrambling to rebuild from scratch. This is the cycle that every elite program knows all too well.
As Proctor and Saraf look ahead to their NBA journeys, they leave behind legacies of impact, growth, and ambition. And for those left behind — like Cooper Flagg — their departures mark the beginning of a new chapter, one where leadership must rise from within.
Duke fans will be watching closely. Because while the headlines may belong to the ones leaving, the future now rests in the hands of those who stay.
