The basketball world continues to watch Cooper Flagg closely as the Duke freshman inches closer to his highly anticipated professional career. While early reports hinted that Flagg was open to returning for another season, a recent update from Blue Devils head coach Jon Scheyer suggests otherwise.
During a press conference ahead of Duke’s Sweet 16 matchup, Scheyer addressed Flagg’s future in response to a broader discussion about college athletes and professional aspirations. Though he didn’t confirm any official decision, the coach’s tone seemed to lean in one direction.
“Cooper is about to move on with something incredibly special with the next step he’s going to go after this,” Scheyer said. He added that personal happiness doesn’t always equate to turning pro, but in Flagg’s case, the writing appears to be on the wall.
Coach Hints at Probable Departure
Earlier this year, Flagg told The Athletic that he “wanted” to stay at Duke another year—careful not to say he would. Now, as the NCAA Tournament intensifies, speculation is ramping up that Flagg’s college career may be a one-year stop before the NBA.
Scheyer made clear that every athlete must make the right decision for themselves. “Each guy is their own individual,” he said. “But Cooper’s thing is different…and that’s going to happen, as it should.”
With Duke still in the hunt for a national title, Flagg’s immediate focus remains on March Madness. But whether or not the Blue Devils cut down the nets, signs now point to a likely departure—and a top pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.
Duke Blue Devils head coach Jon Scheyer.
Duke Blue Devils head coach Jon Scheyer.