Duke Star Cooper Flagg Declares for 2025 NBA Draft Following Stellar Freshman Season

Cooper Flagg is taking a significant step toward his professional basketball career after an impressive season with Duke University. The 18-year-old freshman announced through social media on Monday that he will declare for the 2025 NBA Draft scheduled for June.

Flagg’s decision has generated considerable buzz as he is widely projected to be a top contender for the first overall pick. In a heartfelt video shared on his Instagram, Flagg reflected on his experience at Duke.

“It was an incredible year, probably the best year of my life. I have so much gratitude and feel blessed for all the opportunities I was given,” he stated.

Speaking about his decision, Flagg added, “Duke has always been a dream for me, but I’m excited to announce that I’ll be entering my name into the 2025 NBA Draft. Today’s just the beginning, but I have ‘the brotherhood’ with me for life.” This phrase highlights the strong connections he formed during his college career.

Flagg’s Dominant Performance at Duke

Throughout the season, Flagg showcased his prowess on the court, leading Duke in nearly every statistical category. He recorded a total of 709 points, 278 rebounds, and 155 assists during the season. His stats reveal an average of 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.4 blocks, and 1.4 steals per game.

One of the standout moments of Flagg’s freshman year occurred in January when he set an ACC freshman record by scoring 42 points against Notre Dame. This remarkable performance not only highlighted his scoring ability but also positioned him as a player to watch in the future.

Endorsements from Coaching Staff

Head coach Jon Scheyer commended Flagg’s contributions to the team, stating, “I am really proud of Cooper for the special season that he had this year. I think the accolades speak for themselves with what he accomplished.” In a video posted across the team’s social media platforms, Scheyer noted that Flagg’s influence on both ends of the court demonstrated exceptional talent.

Scheyer further emphasized, “His highlights, his statistics, and the ways he impacted the game in every category were off the charts, showcasing as good of a freshman season as anyone has had at Duke.” His season included a semifinal appearance in the NCAA men’s tournament and culminated in his being awarded the prestigious 2025 Naismith Player of the Year Award, making him just the fourth freshman to earn this honor.

The Road to the NBA Draft

As anticipation builds for the upcoming NBA draft lottery next month, many are keeping an eye on the teams positioned for the first pick. The Utah Jazz concluded the season with the league’s worst record, giving them a 14% chance of winning the coveted top selection.

With Flagg’s remarkable talent and potential recognized, fans and analysts alike eagerly await the forthcoming draft. His combination of skills and leadership may make him a valuable asset to whichever team selects him, as he has already proven his capability on the collegiate level.

Future Prospects for Flagg

Flagg’s journey to the NBA represents more than just his basketball talent; it encapsulates the dedication and hard work he has put into his craft. Throughout the season, he has continuously demonstrated resilience and sportsmanship, traits that NBA scouts will undoubtedly value.

As Cooper Flagg transitions from college basketball to the professional arena, his supporters remain optimistic about his bright future. His announcement marks an exciting chapter in his life and career, one that will be closely followed by basketball enthusiasts around the world.

This transition serves as a reminder of the competitive nature of college sports, where athletes not only strive for personal achievements but also carry the legacy of their programs with them.

In summary, Flagg’s decision to enter the 2025 NBA Draft signals his readiness to embrace new challenges. His upcoming journey into professional basketball is a testament to his significant accomplishments during his time at Duke, and it will undoubtedly be fascinating to see how he translates his collegiate success into the NBA.