Duke basketball is on fire this season, and at the center of it all is freshman sensation Cooper Flagg. The 6’9″ forward has been a game-changer for the Blue Devils, leading them to an impressive 27-3 record and securing their place among the nation’s top teams.
But while Duke fans are enjoying the ride, there’s one looming question: Will Cooper Flagg enter the NBA Draft, or will he return for another year in college?
A Season to Remember
From the moment Flagg stepped on the court, he proved he was special. He’s averaging 19.4 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game—numbers that have scouts and analysts drooling. Basketball legends have already compared him to some of the greats, with Hall of Fame coach Jim Boeheim even likening him to Larry Bird.
Duke’s dominance isn’t just about Flagg, though. The team ranks second in the nation in defensive efficiency, holding opponents to just 61.1 points per game. Offensively, they’re just as lethal, averaging 83.5 points per game. With March Madness approaching, expectations are sky-high.
Should He Stay or Should He Go?
Despite being projected as the number one overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, Flagg has yet to make a decision about his future. Following a recent win against Wake Forest, Duke fans chanted “one more year,” hoping their star player would return. Flagg smiled and acknowledged the support, but he hasn’t given a definitive answer.
Financially, the decision is massive. If he declares for the draft, he could sign a rookie contract worth over $63 million, with the potential to earn as much as $590 million throughout his career. While college athletes can now earn money through NIL deals, it’s nowhere near what the NBA offers.
The Draft Lottery Factor
One thing that could influence Flagg’s decision is the NBA Draft Lottery, which takes place on May 12. If a team he’s not excited about lands the top pick, he has the option to return to Duke and try again next year. This strategic move isn’t unheard of, as some players prefer to wait for a better landing spot rather than rush into a bad situation.
Will March Madness Decide His Future?
Duke’s performance in the NCAA Tournament could be the deciding factor. If they make a deep run—or even win the national championship—Flagg might see it as the perfect way to end his college career. However, an early exit could leave him with unfinished business and push him to stay for another season.
Former Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski, better known as Coach K, recently weighed in on the situation. He pointed out that while staying at Duke might be tempting, the financial benefits of entering the NBA are just too great to ignore.
The Countdown Begins
As Duke prepares for March Madness, all eyes will be on Cooper Flagg—not just for his performance, but for any hint of what he plans to do next. Will he take the leap to the NBA, or will he shock the basketball world by returning for another season?
One thing is certain—whatever Flagg decides will have a huge impact on both Duke and the NBA. Stay tuned, because this story is far from over.
