Duke’s early Final Four exit has prompted speculation about what comes next for the Blue Devils-and for their freshman superstar, Cooper Flagg. The 6-foot-9 phenom has captivated the basketball world all season, averaging 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game.
Alongside teammates Kon Knueppel and Khaman Maluach, Flagg is considered a top lottery prospect for the 2025 NBA Draft.
Awful call! Cooper Flagg gives Houston the win after making a foul
But Flagg‘s future is not as locked in as many might assume. Late Friday night, following Duke’s emotional loss, Flagg joined ESPN’s SportsCenter to talk about the season and what lies ahead. And when asked directly what’s next, Flagg offered a surprisingly contemplative answer.
“I think kind of what you said, just evaluating, you know, reflecting,” Flagg said. “It was an incredible year. I met a lot of incredible people. Made a ton of great relationships that I’m going to have for the rest of my life, and I think now it’s time for me to reflect. You know, take a couple days; take a week; take a month. Whatever it is for me. Talk to my parents, talk to the coaches and just really decide what’s best for me.”
It’s a mature and thoughtful approach from the player who’s projected to be the No. 1 overall pick in several mock drafts. Despite his draft stock being sky-high, Flagg isn’t rushing his decision-prioritizing relationships, reflection, and conversations with those closest to him.
Flagg, a consensus All-American in his freshman campaign, has not yet declared for the draft. But if he does, he’ll likely headline a draft class that includes fellow Duke freshman Knueppel and South Sudanese standout Maluach.
The teams currently in line for the No. 1 pick-the Washington Wizards, Utah Jazz, and Charlotte Hornets-would all welcome a player of Flagg’s caliber. Each team is in the middle of a rebuild and could offer Flagg a leading role from day one.
Still, Flagg returning to Durham for a sophomore season isn’t entirely off the table. If he does stay, he’ll be joined by Cameron and Cayden Boozer, twin brothers and two of the most highly touted prospects in the 2025 recruiting class. Their arrival, paired with Flagg‘s leadership, would immediately make Duke the national title favorite.
