HISTORIC NBA DRAFT NIGHT: Duke Blue Devils Dominate with Cooper Flagg and Kon Knueppel Both Selected in Prestigious Top Four

The Duke Blue Devils have long been a powerhouse in college basketball, known for producing some of the NBA’s brightest stars. But what unfolded at the 2025 NBA Draft was unprecedented, even by Duke’s lofty standards. Two of Coach Jon Scheyer’s most prized players — Cooper Flagg and Kon Knueppel — etched their names into the history books, both being selected within the top four picks of this year’s draft.

It marked not only a monumental night for the Duke program but also a signal to the basketball world that Durham remains one of the premier destinations for elite talent with NBA aspirations.

Cooper Flagg Goes No. 1 Overall

For months, there was speculation that Cooper Flagg was destined to hear his name called first. On draft night, that speculation became reality as the New Orleans Pelicans selected the 6-foot-9 forward with the No. 1 overall pick, making him the first Blue Devil taken at the top spot since Zion Williamson in 2019.

Flagg’s rise has been meteoric but well-deserved. Hailing from Newport, Maine, Flagg arrived at Duke carrying enormous expectations — some labeling him the most hyped prospect since LeBron James. Remarkably, he lived up to the billing.

In his lone season with the Blue Devils, Flagg averaged 19.6 points, 8.8 rebounds, 3.2 assists, and 2.5 blocks per game. But statistics only tell part of the story. His versatility, defensive instincts, and poise under pressure separated him from the pack. Flagg’s ability to guard multiple positions, orchestrate offense, and impact the game in every facet drew comparisons to NBA stars like Kevin Durant and Jayson Tatum — with his defensive upside arguably even higher.

The Pelicans, who already boast a young, exciting core led by Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram, now add Flagg — a player many analysts believe is a franchise cornerstone. His arrival in New Orleans could be the final piece the franchise needs to become a consistent Western Conference contender.

“It’s surreal,” Flagg told reporters moments after hearing his name called. “Growing up in Maine, I dreamed of moments like this. I owe so much to Duke — my coaches, teammates, and the fans. But now, I’m ready to bring that same energy to New Orleans.”

Flagg’s selection also reinforced Duke’s reputation for developing NBA-ready prospects. His one-and-done campaign showcased his ability to handle the spotlight, execute at the highest level, and lead a blue-blood program deep into March Madness.

Kon Knueppel Drafted Fourth Overall by the San Antonio Spurs

As the celebrations for Flagg settled, it wasn’t long before another Blue Devil made waves. With the fourth overall pick, the San Antonio Spurs selected Kon Knueppel, the sharp-shooting wing whose rise up draft boards was one of the most compelling stories of the college basketball season.

Knueppel, a 6-foot-6 guard from Wisconsin, arrived at Duke somewhat under the radar compared to Flagg’s national spotlight. But anyone who watched Duke closely this past season knew Knueppel’s name would be called early on draft night.

The Wisconsin native delivered a stellar freshman campaign, averaging 17.8 points per game while shooting an eye-popping 43.9% from three-point range. His smooth shooting stroke, basketball IQ, and ability to thrive in both catch-and-shoot and off-the-dribble scenarios made him a coveted commodity for NBA teams in need of perimeter scoring.

Beyond his scoring prowess, Knueppel proved to be a reliable playmaker and a surprisingly stout defender, traits that likely elevated his draft stock. His size, shooting, and polish drew comparisons to Klay Thompson and Desmond Bane — players capable of stretching defenses while offering versatility on both ends of the floor.

For the Spurs, Knueppel represents another critical addition to a young nucleus centered around generational big man Victor Wembanyama. San Antonio’s front office, known for its keen eye for talent, views Knueppel as an ideal floor-spacing complement to Wembanyama, capable of easing the offensive load while providing defensive toughness.

“Getting picked by San Antonio feels like the perfect fit,” Knueppel said after donning his Spurs cap. “I’ve always admired their culture, the way they develop players, and the selfless style they play with. I’m ready to get to work.”

A Historic Night for Duke Basketball

The 2025 NBA Draft marked only the second time in history that two Duke players were selected in the top four picks, the last occurrence being in 1999 when Elton Brand went No. 1 and Trajan Langdon went No. 4. But this year felt different — a testament to the evolving dominance of the program under Jon Scheyer.

While Duke has consistently produced first-rounders and NBA stars, seeing Flagg and Knueppel ascend to such elite draft status simultaneously speaks volumes about the program’s trajectory. The Blue Devils not only attracted two of the most skilled and mentally prepared prospects in recent memory, but they also fostered their development to the point where NBA executives couldn’t ignore their readiness.

Coach Scheyer, present at the draft in Brooklyn, beamed with pride as both players embraced their new NBA homes.

“Cooper and Kon exemplify everything we strive for at Duke — toughness, unselfishness, work ethic, and passion for the game,” Scheyer said. “They made each other better every day in practice, and it’s only fitting they both hear their names this early tonight.”

Indeed, the chemistry between Flagg and Knueppel was palpable throughout the season. Their on-court connection powered Duke to an ACC title and an Elite Eight appearance, with both players stepping up in critical moments. NBA scouts repeatedly highlighted their ability to thrive alongside other high-level talent, a trait that bodes well as they transition to rosters filled with established stars.

The Broader Impact on Recruiting and College Basketball

The success of Flagg and Knueppel is also expected to bolster Duke’s recruiting efforts. With the program already synonymous with NBA success, their top-four selections reinforce Durham as the ultimate proving ground for young stars with professional aspirations.

For future high school phenoms weighing college decisions, Duke’s latest draft dominance sends a clear message: the Blue Devils prepare players for the NBA spotlight and prime them for immediate success at the next level.

Moreover, Duke’s impact on the 2025 draft extends beyond individual achievements. It reflects the ongoing evolution of college basketball, where elite freshmen still hold immense value in shaping both college seasons and NBA pipelines. Amid debates about the transfer portal and NIL dynamics, Flagg and Knueppel demonstrated that the traditional one-and-done path — when navigated correctly — remains as potent as ever.

What’s Next for Flagg, Knueppel, and the Blue Devils

For Flagg and Knueppel, the real work begins now. Summer League action will provide the first glimpse of how their games translate against professional competition. Expectations will be high, but both players have already shown the mental fortitude and skill set required to handle pressure.

As for Duke, the program turns the page with renewed momentum. The Blue Devils have already secured commitments from several top-tier prospects for the upcoming season, eager to follow in Flagg and Knueppel’s footsteps. The standard is clear — Durham is not just a stepping stone to the NBA, but a launching pad for greatness.

In many ways, the 2025 NBA Draft served as a celebration of Duke Basketball’s past, present, and future. Cooper Flagg and Kon Knueppel’s selections in the top four solidify their legacies as part of Duke’s rich tradition while signaling that the Blue Devils aren’t slowing down anytime soon.