Cooper Flagg Featured in Big Duke Announcement on Tuesday
On a momentous Tuesday in late April 2025, Duke University made a major announcement that not only captivated the college basketball world but also shook the foundations of the 2025 NBA Draft landscape. Freshman sensation Cooper Flagg—one of the most anticipated and followed prospects in recent memory—officially declared for the 2025 NBA Draft, confirming weeks of speculation and excitement surrounding his future.
The announcement, made via a video shared on Flagg’s Instagram and echoed by Duke’s official athletics communications, was equal parts emotional, symbolic, and historic. It marked the end of a transformative era for the Blue Devils and the beginning of a new chapter in the life of one of basketball’s most gifted young stars.
A Season for the Ages at Duke
Flagg’s freshman year at Duke was nothing short of electric. From the very first game, he emerged as a game-changer on both ends of the floor. His stat line—19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 2.3 blocks, and 1.6 steals per game—only begins to tell the story of his immense impact.
Whether it was leading late-game comebacks, shutting down the ACC’s best scorers, or energizing Cameron Indoor Stadium with thunderous dunks and chase-down blocks, Flagg made Duke basketball must-see television. Under the guidance of head coach Jon Scheyer, he flourished not just as an athlete, but as a leader and student of the game.
His season helped lead Duke to a 35–4 record, an ACC Tournament title, and a Final Four appearance, solidifying their return to national prominence. Along the way, Flagg collected nearly every major award available to a collegiate player, including:
- ACC Player of the Year
- ACC Rookie of the Year
- Naismith Player of the Year
- Lute Olson Award
- Associated Press Player of the Year
- Consensus First-Team All-American
With that trophy case now full, Flagg took the next step on Tuesday—declaring for the NBA.
The Announcement: A Message from the Heart
In a professionally produced but deeply personal Instagram video, Flagg shared the news directly with fans and the basketball world:
“This year at Duke has been everything I dreamed of and more. The fans, the coaches, my teammates—thank you for being part of something special. With a full heart and after talking with my family and coaches, I’ve decided to declare for the 2025 NBA Draft.”
He closed the video by walking out of the Duke locker room and pausing in the tunnel, symbolizing his exit from college basketball and his entry into the professional ranks. The video, set to poignant music and showcasing highlights from the season, went viral within minutes.
A Once-in-a-Generation Talent
Flagg’s decision to leave for the NBA was widely expected. Even before he enrolled at Duke, he had been the subject of intense scouting, fanfare, and media attention. A native of Newport, Maine, Flagg rose through the ranks of AAU and prep school basketball with Montverde Academy in Florida, earning the consensus No. 1 recruit status for the class of 2024.
What sets Flagg apart is not only his skillset—which includes elite ball-handling, a refined jump shot, tremendous court vision, and defensive instincts—but also his basketball IQ and poise under pressure. At 6-foot-9 with a 7-foot wingspan, he can defend all five positions and run an offense like a point guard.
Analysts have compared him to players like Kevin Durant, Larry Bird, and even LeBron James—lofty comparisons that speak to his all-around game and superstar ceiling.
Historic Achievements at Duke
Flagg’s freshman year wasn’t just statistically dominant—it was historically rare. By winning the Naismith Player of the Year as a freshman, he joined an elite group that includes only three other players:
- Kevin Durant (2007)
- Anthony Davis (2012)
- Zion Williamson (2019)
Like Durant and Davis, Flagg showcased an NBA-ready game in his lone college season, and like Zion, he brought a level of energy and excitement to Duke that captivated fans across the country.
Flagg also became the first freshman in ACC history to lead the league in both points and blocks per game—an incredible testament to his two-way dominance.
Draft Projections: A Lock at No. 1
It should come as no surprise that Cooper Flagg is the consensus No. 1 overall pick heading into the 2025 NBA Draft. Every major mock draft—including ESPN, The Ringer, Bleacher Report, and CBS Sports—has placed him at the top of the board since before the college season began.
Flagg is widely seen as a franchise-changing player, and teams at the bottom of the NBA standings have been eagerly anticipating lottery night. Among the favorites to land the top pick are the Washington Wizards, Utah Jazz, Detroit Pistons, and Charlotte Hornets—each of whom could use a transformational forward like Flagg to reset their franchise.
NBA executives have praised his maturity and work ethic. One anonymous scout told ESPN:
“He’s as close to a sure thing as we’ve seen in years. He’s got the body, the mind, and the skillset to dominate for a decade or more.”
Financial Windfall Ahead
Flagg is expected to sign a four-year rookie deal worth roughly $55 million, depending on where he’s drafted. But that’s only the beginning. With NBA teams able to offer a Designated Rookie Supermax Extension after three seasons, Flagg could become eligible for a $398.5 million contract by the 2029–30 season.
In addition, Flagg has already inked major NIL deals during his time at Duke, including endorsements with Nike, Gatorade, and Beats by Dre. His transition to the NBA is expected to include a signature sneaker and several other endorsements, potentially putting him on a path toward billion-dollar career earnings.
Impact on Duke Basketball Moving Forward
While Flagg’s declaration is a reason for celebration, it also signals a major transition for the Duke basketball program. Alongside Flagg, fellow freshmen Kon Knueppel and Khaman Maluach, and junior guard Tyrese Proctor, have also entered the draft, meaning Duke will not return any of its top six players in terms of minutes played.
Coach Jon Scheyer now faces the difficult task of reloading a roster that was built around Flagg. Duke has a strong incoming class, including five-star recruits and potential transfers, but losing a generational talent like Flagg will be felt immediately.
Still, the program’s track record of developing elite players and competing at the highest level provides hope. And Flagg’s success will undoubtedly boost Duke’s recruiting pitch for years to come.
What Flagg Leaves Behind at Duke
In just one year, Cooper Flagg became one of the most beloved players in recent Duke history. He connected with the student body, routinely stayed after games to sign autographs, and played with a joy and intensity that made him easy to root for.
His presence helped restore Duke’s national prestige and reminded fans of the glory days under Coach K. Though his time in Durham was brief, his impact will be lasting.
Reactions from Around the Basketball World
The basketball community was quick to celebrate Flagg’s announcement. Among the many reactions:
- LeBron James posted on X (formerly Twitter): “The kid is ready. Congrats to Cooper—can’t wait to watch you in the league.”
- Coach Jon Scheyer said in a statement: “Cooper gave everything to this program. He’s a competitor, a teammate, and a role model. We’re incredibly proud of him.”
- Jay Bilas, ESPN analyst and Duke alum, said on SportsCenter: “He’s a no-doubt No. 1 pick. His upside is immense, and what he did at Duke was extraordinary.”
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Flagg?
Flagg will now begin pre-draft preparations, including training at private facilities, attending the NBA Combine (if desired), and meeting with prospective teams. His camp has indicated that he’ll work out for a small group of franchises with top draft positions.
The 2025 NBA Draft is scheduled for June 25 in Brooklyn, New York, at the Barclays Center. It promises to be one of the most-watched drafts in recent history, largely because of Flagg’s presence.
A Legend Begins
On Tuesday, Duke didn’t just announce a player leaving for the draft. They celebrated the legacy of a rising star who has already etched his name into Blue Devils history.
For Cooper Flagg, this announcement is just the beginning. His journey to basketball greatness continues on a new stage, but the foundation built at Duke will follow him wherever he goes. He wore the Blue Devil jersey with pride, played with passion, and now carries that spirit with him to the next level.
And for the fans? The memories are already legendary—and the best may still be to come.
