Jon Scheyer Could Be in the Mix for Acaden Lewis

The Duke basketball program is bracing for a major shift in its backcourt after the 2024–25 season. Sion James has exhausted his eligibility, Tyrese Proctor is expected to enter the NBA Draft, and both Caleb Foster and Isaiah Evans face decisions about whether to return, transfer, or go pro. Evans, in particular, is viewed as a potential 2025 NBA Draft pick should he declare.

Regardless, Jon Scheyer will need to replenish the backcourt. Cayden Boozer, a four-star point guard and the twin brother of fellow commit Cameron Boozer, is set to join the Blue Devils and could step into a starting role if no experienced guard is added via the portal. Darren Harris has already confirmed his return to Durham, positioning himself as a likely rotational contributor.

Now, a new option has emerged for Duke’s backcourt: Acaden Lewis, a top-35 prospect in the 2025 class. The former Kentucky commit recently reopened his recruitment, and Duke—who was among his original finalists alongside UConn—is reportedly back in the mix. Lewis ultimately chose Kentucky over Duke and UConn the first time around, but the Blue Devils may now get a second shot.

Reports suggest that Duke, UConn, and North Carolina all view themselves as contenders for the four-star combo guard. Lewis also made a recent visit to St. John’s. While there hasn’t been a clear indication of which direction he’s leaning, Lewis previously visited Duke and included the program in his final three, suggesting Scheyer could still make a strong late push.

If Duke does land Lewis but doesn’t make additional portal moves, the Blue Devils could be looking at a freshman-led backcourt with Lewis and Boozer starting—assuming neither Foster nor Evans returns. That said, Lewis is likely waiting to see how Duke’s roster shakes out. If Proctor, Foster, and Evans all depart, Duke would offer a wide-open path to minutes. But if one or more stays, the competition could give Lewis pause, knowing his role wouldn’t be guaranteed.

With Lewis now back on the board, Duke is firmly in the race for two of the top uncommitted players in the 2025 class. Five-star forward Nate Ament has the Blue Devils in his final five, with Duke viewed as a slight favorite. If Scheyer can close the deal on one—or both—it would be a significant boost to Duke’s long-term outlook.

I want to Return Back for Another Season’ Cooper Flagg on Challenges

“I would like to come back for another season.” Cooper Points Out the Difficulties in Landing Profitable Nil Deals.

Duke University’s standout freshman, Cooper Flagg, has recently expressed interest in returning for a second collegiate season, a decision influenced by the evolving landscape of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities. Flagg’s exceptional performance on the court, averaging 19.8 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game, has positioned him as a projected top pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.

Despite the allure of an NBA career, Flagg’s substantial NIL earnings provide compelling reasons to remain at Duke. He has secured lucrative deals with prominent brands, including New Balance, Gatorade, Fanatics, and Cort Furniture, culminating in an estimated NIL valuation of $4.8 million. These endorsements not only offer financial incentives but also allow Flagg to build his personal brand while continuing his education.

The introduction of NIL rights in 2021 has transformed college athletics, enabling athletes like Flagg to monetize their talents without immediately transitioning to professional leagues. This shift provides greater flexibility for athletes to make career decisions that balance financial gain with personal and professional development. Flagg’s consideration to stay another year reflects this new dynamic, where the immediate financial pressures to turn professional are mitigated by substantial collegiate earning potential.

However, remaining in college is not without its challenges. While NIL deals offer significant income, they may not match the long-term financial security of an NBA contract, which could include substantial salaries and endorsements. Additionally, the risk of injury or changes in draft stock could impact future professional opportunities. Flagg’s decision will need to weigh these factors carefully, considering both the immediate benefits of NIL earnings and the potential long-term advantages of an NBA career.

In conclusion, Cooper Flagg’s contemplation of returning to Duke underscores the profound impact of NIL opportunities on collegiate athletes’ career trajectories. His situation exemplifies the complex decisions faced by top talents navigating the intersection of college athletics and professional aspirations in the modern era

Cooper Flagg Continues to Shine Despite Final Four Heartbreak: Projected as 2025 NBA Draft’s No. 1 Pick

Even after a heart-wrenching loss in the Final Four to Houston, a game marred by controversy and contentious officiating decisions, Cooper Flagg’s stock in college basketball continues to soar. The freshman phenom, who had been one of the most dominant forces in the NCAA throughout the season, remains the focal point of excitement and anticipation as he looks ahead to his future in the NBA.

Flagg’s performance in the 2025 NCAA tournament, despite the heartbreaking exit, has only bolstered his status as the top NBA prospect. Even though Duke’s run ended prematurely in a tough loss to Houston, the accolades continue to pour in for the versatile forward, and the basketball world is firmly fixated on what’s next for him. His journey this season is nothing short of remarkable, and the projections are clear: Cooper Flagg is on track to be the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.

The Final Four: A Controversial Ending to an Incredible Run

Duke’s loss to Houston in the Final Four was a bitter pill to swallow for Flagg and his teammates. The game was filled with controversial calls that had many fans and analysts questioning the fairness of the officiating. While Flagg played a stellar game, contributing on both ends of the floor with his trademark defense and scoring, the Blue Devils fell short in a tight contest that left a sour taste in the mouths of those who had hoped to see them advance to the national championship.

However, while the loss stung, it didn’t diminish the incredible season Flagg had put together. His ability to impact the game in every way—scoring, rebounding, facilitating, and defending—was on full display throughout the tournament. Many believed that the Final Four defeat, despite being controversial, would not define Flagg’s season or his future in the game.

A Season of Awards and Recognition

Despite the disappointing end to the tournament, the accolades have continued to roll in for Cooper Flagg. Just days after the Final Four loss, Flagg was presented with the Jersey Mike’s Naismith Men’s College Player of the Year Award, one of the most prestigious individual honors in college basketball. This award highlighted his exceptional talent and the sheer impact he had on Duke’s successful campaign throughout the season.

Flagg’s numbers were jaw-dropping: 20 points per game, 10 rebounds, and 5 assists, all while locking down some of the nation’s best players on defense. His versatility—combining elite defense with a scoring touch and the ability to facilitate for his teammates—has made him a standout talent, and the recognition he’s receiving is a testament to his dominance on the court.

The NBA Outlook: No. 1 Draft Pick in 2025

As the college season comes to a close, all eyes are now on the NBA Draft, where Cooper Flagg is expected to hear his name called first overall. While Flagg’s tournament run ended earlier than expected, the collective sentiment around the league is that he has done enough to solidify his position as the No. 1 overall pick.

Flagg’s combination of size (6’8″), skill, and basketball IQ is unmatched by any other prospect in this year’s draft class. His ability to play multiple positions, defend at an elite level, and contribute offensively in numerous ways makes him a complete player with the potential to thrive in the modern NBA. Teams in need of a versatile forward who can impact the game at both ends of the floor will be eager to select Flagg with the first overall pick.

Beyond his on-court abilities, Flagg has demonstrated incredible maturity and leadership for someone so young. His poise in the face of adversity—whether dealing with the disappointment of a controversial Final Four loss or handling the pressures of being the nation’s top player—has shown that he has the mental toughness to succeed at the highest level.

Looking Ahead to the NBA

As Cooper Flagg prepares for the next phase of his career, the expectations will be sky-high. While his NCAA career may have been cut short by an unfortunate loss, the foundation he has built in his one season at Duke has set him up for success in the NBA. Whether it’s his unmatched ability to defend, his scoring potential, or his vision as a playmaker, Flagg’s skill set is tailor-made for the professional game.

The 2025 NBA Draft is shaping up to be one of the most highly anticipated in recent memory, with Cooper Flagg leading the charge as the consensus No. 1 pick. No matter what team he lands with, Flagg is poised to make an immediate impact, and basketball fans everywhere are eager to see what he’ll do next.

In Conclusion

Despite the heartache of a controversial loss in the Final Four, Cooper Flagg’s legacy this season remains intact. His numerous accolades, his dominance on the court, and his projected place as the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft highlight the immense talent he possesses. As he prepares to take the next step in his basketball journey, Flagg is destined for greatness, and his future in the NBA looks as bright as ever. The basketball world is watching closely, and Cooper Flagg is ready to show just how high his star can rise.