Duke University basketball sensation Cooper Flagg is at the center of a heated debate in the basketball world, not just for his on-court brilliance, but for the financial implications of his next move. Widely projected as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, Flagg has yet to confirm whether he will declare, sparking speculation that he may return to Duke for another season. While fans and college basketball enthusiasts cheer on the possibility of his return, financial analysts and sports agents warn of a potentially massive cost.
Sources close to Flagg’s circle say the 6-foot-9 phenom is weighing his options carefully, with a genuine love for Duke’s program, coaching staff, and college experience. However, should he decide to stay another year, experts estimate he could lose between $75 million and $125 million in future earnings. The figure accounts for delayed entry into the NBA’s rookie scale contracts, endorsement deals, and eligibility for future max extensions.
Flagg’s marketability is off the charts. Since committing to Duke and dominating his freshman season—averaging 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game—his name has become synonymous with the future of basketball. Brands are lining up for endorsement opportunities, and NBA teams at the bottom of the standings are already planning draft strategies with Flagg in mind.
Delaying his draft entry would push back his eligibility for not only the rookie contract but also for the all-important second contract—where most NBA stars start earning maximum or supermax deals. In today’s NBA financial structure, a year’s delay in reaching those contracts could translate to tens of millions in lost income.
NBA salary caps are projected to rise significantly over the next few seasons, and that only amplifies the potential earnings Cooper could be missing. A player of his caliber—if drafted in 2025 and progressing on track—would be eligible for a supermax extension by 2029. If he delays his NBA debut, that timeline shifts, and so does the payday.
While Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities in college are growing, they don’t come close to matching what the NBA and major endorsements can offer. Flagg is reportedly earning high six-figure NIL deals at Duke, possibly even touching the million-dollar mark, but it’s still a fraction of the eight- or nine-figure earnings projected in the professional sphere.
Some fans argue that one more year in college could refine his game, reduce pressure, and increase his brand loyalty. Others believe the risk outweighs the reward, pointing to potential injuries or unforeseen setbacks that could impact his draft stock or career trajectory.
Flagg has remained relatively quiet on his future, only saying he’s focused on the season and team success. However, sources say Duke is preparing for both scenarios—either building another title run around him or recruiting to fill a massive gap in his absence.
Duke head coach Jon Scheyer has expressed nothing but support for Flagg’s decision, saying, “Cooper has a bright future ahead of him. Whatever he chooses, it’ll be the right decision for him, and we’ll stand by him all the way.”
Meanwhile, NBA scouts continue to evaluate every move he makes. “He’s as close to a sure thing as we’ve seen in years,” one scout said. “If he enters the draft, he’s going No. 1. If not, teams will wait another year. But time is money—especially at his level.”
As Flagg’s decision looms, it’s clear that the choice isn’t just about basketball. It’s a decision that will shape his legacy, his timeline, and his bank account for years to come.
