On April 21, 2025, Cooper Flagg, the standout freshman forward for the Duke Blue Devils, announced via Instagram that he would be leaving the university to enter the 2025 NBA Draft. The 18-year-old Maine native expressed profound gratitude for his time at Duke, calling it “the best year of my life” and acknowledging the support from fans, teammates, and the Duke basketball community. Flagg’s decision was met with widespread support, including comments from NFL star Micah Parsons and fitness coach Jess Sims. His former teammates and fans also shared heartfelt reactions.
Flagg’s departure marks the end of a remarkable freshman season where he averaged 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game, leading Duke to the Final Four. He became the first player since 1986 to lead his team in all major statistical categories during a Final Four game. Widely regarded as the top prospect for the upcoming draft, Flagg is expected to be the No. 1 overall pick. Duke head coach Jon Scheyer praised Flagg’s exceptional impact and historic freshman season, highlighting his accolades, statistics, and influence on both offense and defense.
In the aftermath of Flagg’s announcement, Duke’s official social media accounts shared messages expressing pride in his achievements and support for his future endeavors. The Blue Devils’ social media team posted a message celebrating Flagg’s accomplishments and wishing him the best in his NBA journey. Teammates and alumni also took to social media to express their support, with many sharing messages of congratulations and encouragement. The Duke community rallied behind Flagg, reflecting the strong bond within the program and the pride they take in his success.
Flagg’s decision to leave Duke and enter the NBA Draft marks a significant moment in his career and in the history of Duke basketball. His time at Duke, though brief, was marked by exceptional performance and a lasting impact on the program. As he prepares for the next chapter in his basketball journey, the support from the Duke community underscores the lasting legacy he leaves behind.
