Duke’s Jon Scheyer Sends Strong Message to Cooper Flagg After NBA Draft Decision
The next chapter of Cooper Flagg’s basketball journey is officially underway, and it begins with the 2025 NBA Draft.
After weeks of speculation and anticipation, Flagg — Duke’s generational freshman phenom — announced on Monday that he is declaring for the NBA Draft. The announcement, which rocked the college basketball world, confirmed what many had long expected: the likely No. 1 overall pick is heading to the league after a historic single season in Durham.
But Flagg’s declaration wasn’t just a formality. It marked the end of an unforgettable era at Duke — one that head coach Jon Scheyer honored with a powerful message following the announcement. In a heartfelt tribute video shared by the Blue Devils’ official social media channels, Scheyer didn’t hold back in praising the 6-foot-9 superstar who took college basketball by storm.
“Really proud of Cooper for the special season that he had this year,” Scheyer said. “I think the accolades speak for themselves with what he did, winning every national player of the year award. His highlights, his statistics, the ways he impacted the game on both ends of the floor — it was off the charts. As good of a freshman season that guy has had here.”
Scheyer went on to describe Flagg as not only a game-changer but a program-definer. “Cooper did an incredible job in every facet of our program,” he added. “An absolute winner.”
The tribute concluded with one simple but bold declaration from the program itself: “Best player in the country. The #1 pick. Cooper Flagg.”
A Season to Remember
Cooper Flagg’s lone season in Durham was nothing short of historic. The former five-star recruit and top-ranked player in the 2024 class came in with immense expectations — and somehow managed to exceed them.
He averaged 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.4 steals, and 1.4 blocks per game — leading Duke in every single major statistical category. His dominance wasn’t just reflected in the box scores, though. Flagg’s defensive instincts, court vision, and clutch performances helped push the Blue Devils to a 35-4 record and a deep NCAA Tournament run.
His accolades? A clean sweep of every major National Player of the Year award — something no Duke freshman had ever accomplished. And in doing so, he etched his name alongside (and arguably above) Blue Devil legends like Zion Williamson, Jayson Tatum, and Kyrie Irving.
The Scheyer-Flagg Connection
For head coach Jon Scheyer, Flagg’s impact extended far beyond the hardwood. This season was about building chemistry, culture, and championship aspirations — and Flagg was at the heart of it all. As the face of a young but hungry roster, Flagg embraced the spotlight and the expectations that came with wearing the Duke jersey. Scheyer, in return, empowered his young star to lead — and lead he did.
Scheyer’s message wasn’t just about numbers or trophies. It was about the standard Flagg set and the example he left behind for future Blue Devils. It was a public acknowledgment of the work, leadership, and dedication that made this season so special — and made Flagg’s decision such a bittersweet moment for the program.
A Changing of the Guard
With Flagg now headed to the NBA — along with fellow freshmen Kon Knueppel and veteran guard Tyrese Proctor — Duke faces the reality of a roster overhaul heading into the 2025-26 season. But there’s no doubt that the foundation left behind is a strong one.
Flagg’s declaration comes at a time when NBA teams are eagerly eyeing the draft lottery, hoping to secure the rights to one of the most promising young prospects in years. As of now, three franchises — the Utah Jazz, Charlotte Hornets, and Washington Wizards — hold the best odds to land the No. 1 pick and the opportunity to build their future around Flagg.
Wherever he ends up, one thing is clear: Cooper Flagg isn’t just entering the NBA as the projected top pick — he’s entering it with the full backing of a college program that believes he was born for this stage.
From a dream season in Durham to the bright lights of the NBA, Flagg’s journey is only just beginning. And with Jon Scheyer’s powerful farewell echoing behind him, Cooper Flagg takes his next step — with the confidence of a young man who came, saw, and conquered one of basketball’s greatest stages.
Leave a Reply