Cooper Flagg’s Bold Move: Star Forward Weighs Staying at Duke Over $400M NBA Future
In a move that has sent shockwaves through the basketball world, Duke University phenom Cooper Flagg is reportedly considering staying with the Blue Devils for another season — a decision that could delay his entry into the NBA and potentially push back a professional contract estimated to be worth over $400 million.
The speculation began swirling following Duke’s narrow loss to Houston in the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament, ending the Blue Devils’ season at 35-4. Despite the tough finish, Flagg’s performance throughout the season has been nothing short of spectacular. Widely considered one of the most promising prospects in college basketball, the 6-foot-8 forward has dominated both ends of the court with his elite scoring, defensive prowess, and basketball IQ.
According to reports from Front Office Sports and other credible sources, Flagg is seriously contemplating a return to Duke. A viral clip circulating on social media even states there is a 28% chance that Flagg remains in college — a number that, while not a majority, is significant given the lucrative opportunities awaiting him in the NBA.
Flagg’s potential NBA contract — including endorsements, bonuses, and long-term value — is projected to be in the range of $400 million. In today’s sports economy, few players pass up the chance to leap to the pros when such a staggering payday is on the table. Yet Flagg appears to be driven by more than just dollar signs.
Sources close to the Duke program suggest that Flagg values the college experience and sees another year under head coach Jon Scheyer as vital for both personal and athletic growth. “Cooper is mature beyond his years,” one insider said. “He’s not just looking at the short-term gain, but how to best prepare himself for a long and successful NBA career.”
There’s also a growing sense that Flagg is determined to lead Duke to a national championship. Despite a stellar freshman campaign, the early tournament exit left a bitter taste, and returning could give him a chance to finish business on his own terms. Duke fans are ecstatic about the possibility, flooding social media with messages of support and pleas for him to stay.
From a business standpoint, the decision to delay the NBA draft comes with risks. Injury, performance dips, or shifts in draft stock could impact his long-term earnings. However, with the introduction of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals in college sports, Flagg could still earn millions while staying at Duke. Some reports estimate he could make up to $5–10 million in NIL endorsements during another year in college, significantly softening the financial blow of postponing an NBA contract.
If Flagg does return, it would not only change the outlook for Duke’s 2025 season but could also set a precedent for other top-tier athletes who may consider staying in school longer rather than making the immediate jump to the pros.
For now, the basketball world watches and waits. Whether Flagg decides to chase an NCAA title or begin his journey to NBA stardom, one thing is clear: he’s already redefining what it means to be a college athlete in the modern era.
