Cooper Flagg Says He’s Thinking About Staying at Duke—Mom Confirms in Surprising Interview
In a development that has college basketball fans buzzing, superstar freshman Cooper Flagg is reportedly considering staying at Duke University beyond his freshman season—a move that would shake up expectations for one of the most hyped NBA prospects in recent memory. The news, first hinted at by Flagg himself in a post-game press conference, was later confirmed by his mother, Janet Flagg, in a candid interview with Courtside Weekly.
Cooper, who has dazzled fans with his athleticism, court vision, and mature two-way play, was widely expected to be a one-and-done player—declaring for the 2026 NBA Draft after a single season in Durham. But now, things may not be so clear-cut.
“I’m just taking it all in,” Flagg said after Duke’s Sweet Sixteen win in this fictional version of events. “Coach [Jon] Scheyer’s been great, my teammates are family, and honestly, I love it here. I’m not in a rush.”
That sentiment shocked many in the basketball world. With Flagg projected as a potential No. 1 overall pick, the idea of him delaying NBA stardom even one more year seems almost unthinkable. But in the interview published this week, Janet Flagg confirmed her son’s thought process.
“Cooper’s always been about growth, not hype,” Janet told Courtside Weekly. “He’s having the time of his life at Duke, and if he feels another year will help him be more prepared—mentally, physically, whatever—he’ll do it. We’re not chasing anyone else’s timeline.”
Janet’s comments come amid increased attention on the pressures placed on young athletes, especially those like Cooper who enter college as household names. His decision to even consider staying speaks to a shift in attitude that contrasts with the traditional one-and-done path.
Behind the scenes, sources say Duke’s coaching staff has fostered a supportive environment, focusing on long-term development rather than fast-tracking players to the draft. Coach Jon Scheyer has reportedly had honest conversations with Flagg, emphasizing his leadership potential and the impact he could make if he returns for a sophomore campaign.
“He could be the face of college basketball next year if he stays,” said fictional analyst Rachel Torres of ESPN Hoops Central. “That kind of legacy doesn’t come around often. And honestly, it’s refreshing to hear a top prospect talk about college in terms of growth, not just as a stepping stone.”
Of course, nothing is official yet. Flagg still has months to make his decision, and the NBA Draft’s lure—including financial incentives, global branding opportunities, and elite competition—is strong. But this unexpected twist in the Flagg saga has sparked debate about whether staying another year could actually enhance his long-term career.
For now, fans in Durham are dreaming of one more season with their star. And if Cooper Flagg follows his heart—as his mom suggests he might—college basketball could be blessed with one of the greatest sophomore seasons in recent history.
