Duke University’s standout athlete, Cooper Flagg, is set to enter the NBA draft as the leading prospect for the top overall pick. The university shared this announcement through a social media post on Monday, following Flagg’s exceptional year at the collegiate level. At just 18 years old, Flagg became the fourth freshman in history to earn the title of national player of the year awarded by The Associated Press, while also guiding the Blue Devils to the Final Four.
Flagg had expedited his entry into college by reclassifying a year early to join Duke. His jump to professionalism, though widely anticipated, came even as he enjoyed and thrived within the college basketball scene. In March, while discussing his award and experience with the Associated Press, Flagg reflected on his year as an “amazing” time with a remarkable group.
Standing 6-foot-9 and weighing 205 pounds, the Newport, Maine native impressed with season averages of 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.4 blocks, and steals. Flagg demonstrated tremendous versatility, excelling in scoring, playmaking, and defense. Duke’s coach Jon Scheyer praised his fantastic freshman year, acknowledging Flagg’s substantial influence across all facets of the game.
Adding to Flagg’s impressive list of accomplishments was a standout performance against Notre Dame where he set a new Atlantic Coast Conference freshman record with 42 points in January. Furthermore, he tallied 30 points, six rebounds, and seven assists against Arizona in the NCAA Tournament’s Sweet 16. His talent for memorable plays was on display, such as a commanding fast-break dunk over a Pittsburgh opponent earlier in the season.
In the national semifinals against Houston, Flagg delivered 27 points and seven rebounds. Despite a late-game slump where Duke surrendered a 14-point lead in just over eight minutes, leading to their defeat, Flagg remained a dominant presence throughout the season. His mature playstyle belied his age, as his influence spanned the entire court. Turning 19 in December during his anticipated NBA rookie season, Flagg leaves a significant mark on Duke’s storied basketball program.
Flagg joins a trio of Duke players declaring early for the NBA draft, alongside freshman wing Kon Knueppel and junior guard Tyrese Proctor. As Flagg embarks on this new chapter, he carries forward the legacy of being a pivotal player for one of college basketball’s elite teams.