Cooper Flagg Commits to Another Season with the Duke Blue Devils………
In a move that has electrified the college basketball world, Duke Blue Devils standout Cooper Flagg has announced he will return for another season in Durham. Amid speculation that he might declare for the NBA Draft after just one year, Flagg has instead chosen to continue his college career, citing “unfinished business” and a burning desire to bring a national championship back to Cameron Indoor Stadium. The decision is a massive win for Duke, head coach Jon Scheyer, and fans who have quickly embraced Flagg as the new face of the program.
Flagg’s announcement came via a social media video posted on Friday afternoon, featuring clips from his dominant freshman campaign mixed with a heartfelt voiceover message. “I came to Duke to grow, to win, and to become part of something bigger than myself,” he said. “We’ve built something special, but we’re not done yet.” The video ended with the words “One More Year,” sending Blue Devil fans into a frenzy online. It’s not just a statement of loyalty—it’s a promise of a thrilling season ahead.
Flagg’s freshman year lived up to the hype and then some. The 6’9″ forward from Newport, Maine, averaged 18.7 points, 8.5 rebounds, 3.1 assists, and 2.7 blocks per game, showcasing an elite all-around game rarely seen in a first-year player. He quickly became one of the most talked-about athletes in college basketball, drawing comparisons to generational talents like Kevin Durant and Anthony Davis. His blend of skill, athleticism, and basketball IQ made him a projected top-three pick in the NBA Draft—had he chosen to leave. But for Flagg, it wasn’t just about personal accolades or draft stock; it was about legacy.
“Duke means something to me,” Flagg told reporters following the Blue Devils’ exit in the Elite Eight this March. “This place helped shape who I am becoming—not just as a player, but as a person.” His words hinted at a possible return, and now that it’s official, expectations for next season are sky-high. With Flagg back in the lineup and a top-tier recruiting class on the way, Duke will undoubtedly enter the 2025 season as a national title favorite. His return also gives Jon Scheyer a valuable anchor around which to build both the offense and the team’s leadership structure.
Flagg’s decision is not just about basketball. According to sources close to the program, the freshman phenom has embraced life at Duke—both on campus and within the community. He’s been involved in local outreach programs and is often spotted interacting with fans, especially younger ones. His humility and work ethic have earned him the respect of his teammates and coaches. “Cooper is the kind of player every coach dreams of,” said Scheyer. “He leads by example, lifts others up, and never stops working. Having him back is a blessing for all of us.”
As the Blue Devils begin preparations for next season, all eyes will be on how Flagg continues to evolve. With a full offseason to further develop his body, refine his shooting, and expand his leadership role, there’s every reason to believe he’ll be even more dominant in year two. While many stars bolt for the NBA as soon as they can, Flagg’s commitment to staying signals something rare in today’s college basketball landscape—a willingness to prioritize growth, loyalty, and the pursuit of greatness on his own terms. With Cooper Flagg back in Duke blue, the countdown to tip-off just got a whole lot more exciting.