Cooper Flagg Shocks College Basketball with Unexpected Departure

Durham, NC – April 2, 2025 – The college basketball world was left in shock as Duke freshman sensation Cooper Flagg made a surprise announcement, catching fans, analysts, and even head coach Jon Scheyer off guard. The 6’9” forward, considered one of the nation’s top prospects, held a last-minute press conference at Cameron Indoor Stadium, where he revealed his decision to leave Duke immediately.

With Duke preparing for a Final Four showdown, Flagg stood alongside his family and coaching staff, delivering a statement that few saw coming.

“After careful thought and discussion with my family, I have decided to forgo the rest of my college eligibility and move on to my next chapter,” Flagg announced.

The decision was unexpected, as Flagg had previously signaled his commitment to finishing the season with Duke. While there had been speculation about his NBA future, few anticipated such a sudden exit before the tournament’s conclusion.

Jon Scheyer’s Reaction

Head coach Jon Scheyer, who played a key role in Flagg’s development, admitted he was blindsided by the news.

“I was as shocked as anyone when Cooper told me his decision,” Scheyer said. “This is a big loss for our team, but I support him and respect his choice. He’s meant so much to Duke basketball, and while I wish we could have finished this journey together, I know his future is bright.”

Insiders suggest Flagg had been weighing his options for some time, amid growing NBA interest and endorsement pressure.

What This Means for Duke’s Title Hopes

Flagg’s departure leaves Duke’s championship ambitions in question, as he was a key contributor in scoring, defense, and versatility. His absence forces Scheyer to rethink his strategy, with Jared McCain and Caleb Foster now expected to step up.

However, losing a player of Flagg’s caliber at this stage is an unprecedented challenge that could significantly impact the team’s title run.

What’s Next for Flagg?

Flagg didn’t specify his next move, but speculation is widespread. The most likely scenario is declaring for the 2025 NBA Draft, where he is projected as a top-three pick. However, there are also rumors of him exploring overseas opportunities or alternative professional routes.

“I’m keeping all options open,” Flagg said. “Right now, I’m focused on what’s best for my long-term development.”

Reactions from the Basketball Community

Flagg’s announcement has sparked intense debate:

• NBA scouts are eager for him to enter the draft, praising his modern skill set.

• ESPN’s Jay Bilas called the move “a seismic shift” in college basketball, comparing Flagg’s impact to Zion Williamson’s Duke tenure.

• Former Duke star JJ Redick defended Flagg’s decision, tweeting: “This kid has done everything for Duke basketball. Wishing him all the success in the world.”

Duke’s Future Without Flagg

Despite the shock, Duke remains a basketball powerhouse, with top recruits and returning talent ready to carry the program forward.

“Duke basketball is bigger than one player,” Scheyer stated. “We’ve faced adversity before, and we’ll face it again.”

Though Flagg’s time at Duke was brief, his impact won’t be forgotten. Now, all eyes turn to his next move—and how the Blue Devils adjust in his absence.

Duke basketball hopes to designate a key reserve as a “emergency” before the Final Four

Duke Aims for Full Health Ahead of Houston Showdown in San Antonio

For the first time in over two weeks, Duke’s basketball team was at full strength during the Sweet 16 and Elite 8—though that wasn’t initially expected.

Maliq Brown returned to the court after re-dislocating his shoulder in the ACC Tournament quarterfinals against Georgia Tech. He remained sidelined until the Sweet 16 matchup against Arizona.

Before tipoff, head coach Jon Scheyer labeled Brown as “day-to-day,” leaving open the possibility of playing. He eventually saw limited action after early foul trouble for Khaman Maluach and Patrick Ngongba. However, Brown was clearly cautious, avoiding physical contact. Despite this, he managed a rebound, an assist, and a steal in just four minutes before sitting out the second half.

Scheyer praised Brown’s willingness to step up, saying, “He’s not 100 percent. He’s not close to it. Ideally, he wouldn’t have played, but it was an emergency situation.”

Brown was expected to be ready for the Elite 8 game against Alabama, but his role remained minimal. He logged just three minutes, grabbing a single rebound before sitting out the second half.

“What Maliq did was incredible—making himself available when he wasn’t expected to play,” Scheyer said after Duke’s win over Alabama. “Now, our focus is getting him stronger and stabilizing his shoulder as much as possible. He won’t be at full strength, but another week should help significantly.”

Duke’s Final Four matchup against Houston on Saturday will mark 23 days since Brown’s injury, but his versatility could be crucial against the physically imposing Cougars.

“We need to get him stronger and healthier, but I feel more confident about what he can contribute next weekend,” Scheyer added.