NBA Mailbag: Would Cooper Flagg Really Remain at Duke for Another Season?
As college basketball enthusiasts and NBA scouts alike turn their attention to the next big prospect, the name Cooper Flagg is on everyone’s radar. Flagg, a 6-foot-8 forward, is widely regarded as one of the top high school basketball players in the country and a potential future NBA star. With his exceptional skill set, versatility, and basketball IQ, Flagg’s decision on where to play next season has become a topic of intense speculation. As he prepares for his first season at Duke University, the big question remains: would Cooper Flagg really remain at Duke for another season, or will he make the leap to the NBA after just one year?
Flagg’s Stellar Potential
Cooper Flagg’s talent is undeniable. As a high school player, he was a dominant force, earning accolades for his elite defense, rebounding, and offensive versatility. His ability to guard multiple positions and his high basketball IQ set him apart from other prospects in his class. These attributes make him a standout for Duke, where head coach Jon Scheyer is building a program that blends tradition with a modern style of play.
The prospect of Flagg spending multiple years at Duke is tantalizing for Blue Devils fans, as it promises not just one year of high-level play, but potentially multiple seasons of growth and development. His presence on the team could create one of the most exciting rosters in college basketball, and Duke could quickly establish itself as a national title contender with Flagg leading the charge.
However, the temptation to jump to the NBA is also a significant factor in Flagg’s decision-making process. With his level of talent, many believe that Flagg could be NBA-ready as soon as he finishes his first season at Duke, especially with the recent trend of top prospects entering the draft after just one year of college experience.
The NBA Draft Picture
The NBA’s one-and-done rule means that many top recruits, especially players like Flagg, are often faced with a tough decision: stay in college for one year and declare for the NBA Draft, or spend additional time refining their skills in the hopes of increasing their draft stock. The 2025 NBA Draft is shaping up to be an exciting one, with a deep pool of talent expected to enter. Flagg’s name is already near the top of many mock draft boards, and the chance to be selected high could be too great to pass up.
If Flagg performs as expected during his freshman year at Duke, it’s almost certain that he would be in the conversation for a top-three pick. The allure of playing in the NBA, with its financial rewards and professional development opportunities, is a major draw for any young player. His decision will ultimately depend on how much more he feels he needs to develop in college and whether he believes his draft stock could be even higher after another season.
The Duke Factor
Despite the allure of the NBA, Duke offers something that few other programs can: a chance to play under a prestigious basketball brand while developing alongside a strong supporting cast. For Flagg, staying at Duke for another season could offer him the opportunity to refine his skills under Scheyer’s tutelage and in a high-level competitive environment. Playing for a program that consistently produces NBA talent could be the perfect balance between immediate pro aspirations and long-term development.
Moreover, Flagg’s decision could be influenced by his personal goals. If he feels that another year in college would provide the chance to work on specific aspects of his game, such as his offensive consistency or his leadership skills, he might opt to stay. Additionally, there is the allure of competing for a national championship, which could be a major motivator for a player like Flagg.
Conclusion: A Decision That Could Go Either Way
Ultimately, Cooper Flagg’s decision to remain at Duke for another season or declare for the NBA Draft is one of the most anticipated decisions in college basketball. His immense talent makes him a strong candidate for the NBA as soon as he finishes his first year at Duke. However, the opportunity for growth at Duke, combined with the chance to help lead one of the nation’s premier programs, could make a second year in college a worthwhile proposition. For now, the world waits to see what Flagg will decide—but one thing is certain: wherever he plays, he’s a future NBA star in the making.
