Stay or Go? Duke Star Cooper Flagg Opens Up About NBA Draft and Possible Return
Durham, NC —
After a historic freshman season that left fans and analysts in awe, Duke basketball phenom Cooper Flagg is now at the center of one of college basketball’s biggest offseason questions: Will he declare for the NBA Draft, or return to Duke for another run at a national title?
In a recent interview following Duke’s postseason run, Flagg opened up about the decision weighing on him — one that could shape not just his own future, but the trajectory of the Blue Devils’ program heading into next season.
“I’m taking my time with it,” Flagg said. “There’s a lot to consider — my growth, my goals, and what I want to accomplish at the next level or here at Duke. I’m talking with my family, my coaches, and really trying to block out all the outside noise.”
A Freshman Season to Remember
Flagg took the college basketball world by storm in his debut season, becoming the first player in Duke history to lead the team in points, rebounds, assists, steals, and blocks as a freshman. He averaged 18.3 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game, and his defensive instincts and leadership set him apart in critical moments.
He was a unanimous ACC Freshman of the Year, a First-Team All-American, and a projected top-3 pick in nearly every 2025 NBA mock draft.
But despite the accolades, Flagg has remained grounded — and committed to making the right decision, not just the obvious one.
“The NBA will be there,” Flagg said. “But there’s something special about what we’re building at Duke. We came up short this year, and part of me wants to come back and finish what we started.”
Coach Scheyer Weighs In
Duke head coach Jon Scheyer, who has praised Flagg as a “once-in-a-generation” player, said he’s supporting whatever decision Flagg makes — but he won’t deny the impact the rising star has had.
“Cooper changed the culture the moment he walked through the doors,” Scheyer said. “He’s one of the most complete and mature players I’ve ever coached. If he returns, we’re talking national title contention. If he goes pro, he’ll be ready — no doubt.”
The Timeline
Flagg revealed he plans to make his decision “within the next few weeks,” following additional conversations with NBA scouts, his inner circle, and Duke’s staff. The NBA Draft declaration deadline is approaching, and fans are eagerly awaiting the final word.
While the basketball world waits, speculation is running wild — some insiders believe he’s leaning toward entering the draft, while others suggest a return could be in play if Duke brings in another strong recruiting class and potential transfers to support a championship run.
Whether he stays or goes, one thing is certain: Cooper Flagg has already left his mark on Duke Basketball history. And as he weighs a future in the NBA against the promise of college legacy, fans across the country are watching — and hoping — for one more season of Flagg magic in Durham.
“Whatever I choose,” Flagg said with a grin, “I’m going to give it everything I’ve got.”
