To Make the Most of Cooper Flagg, Jon Scheyer Built the Best Roster in College Basketball
Duke basketball head coach Jon Scheyer has always been known for his recruiting prowess, but with the addition of Cooper Flagg, one of the most highly anticipated prospects in recent memory, Scheyer has taken his program to another level. To maximize the potential of Flagg’s elite skill set, Scheyer has built the best roster in college basketball, combining a mix of established talent and dynamic incoming players.
Cooper Flagg, a 6’8” forward with exceptional versatility, has been the centerpiece of Duke’s recruiting class. Known for his defensive prowess, court vision, and ability to impact every facet of the game, Flagg is a player who can change the complexion of any game. His combination of athleticism, basketball IQ, and work ethic makes him the perfect fit for Scheyer’s system, which emphasizes both high-level defense and fast-paced, efficient offense.
To surround Flagg with the right supporting cast, Scheyer has assembled a roster that boasts a blend of experienced upperclassmen and talented underclassmen who complement Flagg’s strengths. This mix is crucial for creating the perfect environment for Flagg’s development and ensuring that Duke remains a dominant force in the college basketball landscape.
One of the key additions to the roster is guard Jared McCain, a dynamic scorer with excellent playmaking ability. McCain’s ability to stretch the floor and create opportunities for his teammates will be vital in giving Flagg the space he needs to operate. Paired with a playmaker like McCain, Flagg will be able to thrive in a system that encourages ball movement and efficient scoring.
Another crucial addition is point guard Caleb Foster, a highly rated recruit who has the ability to control the tempo of the game. Foster’s vision and passing ability will be key in feeding Flagg in the right spots on the floor. Duke’s offense will rely heavily on their ability to space the floor, creating driving lanes and opportunities for Flagg to exploit his mismatch potential. With Foster at the helm, Duke will be able to maximize Flagg’s unique skill set as a playmaker and scorer.
In addition to the backcourt talent, Duke also boasts a strong frontcourt presence. Kyle Filipowski, who made an immediate impact last season, returns to provide a scoring and rebounding presence in the paint. Filipowski’s experience will be invaluable in guiding the younger players, especially Flagg, in the high-pressure environment of college basketball. His ability to stretch the floor with his shooting will also help provide the spacing Flagg needs to operate.
Defensively, Duke is poised to be a nightmare for opposing teams. Flagg’s ability to guard multiple positions, combined with the defensive acumen of players like McCain and Foster, gives Scheyer a roster capable of shutting down even the most potent offenses. With this level of defensive versatility, Duke will be able to match up against anyone in the country, making them a formidable force both on the ball and in transition.
The pieces are now in place for Duke to make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament. With Cooper Flagg leading the charge and a well-rounded supporting cast around him, Jon Scheyer has built the best roster in college basketball—a roster capable of competing for a national championship. As the season unfolds, it will be fascinating to see how Flagg and his teammates gel under Scheyer’s tutelage, but one thing is clear: Duke is a team to watch in 2025.
