Cooper Flagg’s Mom Discusses Duke Basketball National Championship Chances, NBA Draft Prospects
In the world of college basketball, few names are as prominent in the 2025 recruiting class as Cooper Flagg. The young star has already captured the attention of the basketball world, not only because of his exceptional talent on the court but also because of the legacy he’s poised to build as he heads into his college career at Duke University. As Duke basketball fans anxiously await his arrival on campus, Flagg’s family is equally invested in his journey, offering insights into his basketball future and what lies ahead for him, both at the college level and in the NBA.
In an exclusive interview, Cooper’s mom, Lori Flagg, shares her thoughts on her son’s potential to lead Duke basketball to a national championship, his preparation for college life, and how she’s supporting him as he navigates the excitement of the NBA Draft.
From his on-court dominance to the high expectations that surround him, Cooper Flagg’s path is one that promises to change the landscape of college basketball. His mother, Lori, has been a significant figure in his life, supporting his dreams and being a constant presence in his development both as a player and a person. Here’s a closer look at what Lori Flagg had to say about her son’s rise, his future, and his chances of succeeding at Duke University.
Cooper’s Path to Duke: The Making of a Star
Cooper Flagg’s journey to Duke University wasn’t built overnight. Lori recalls the early days when her son first started showing his basketball potential, and she could tell that he was destined for something special. From a very young age, Cooper displayed a deep passion for the game, a natural gift for basketball, and an unwavering drive to be the best.
“I knew he had something special when he was little,” Lori reflects. “He’s always been driven. Even as a child, he’d spend hours practicing in the driveway, perfecting his skills. He wasn’t just playing for fun—he was serious about it. He wanted to get better every day, and you could see the work he put in.”
Lori emphasizes that Cooper’s success is not just about his raw talent but also about his mindset. Cooper has always been a student of the game, constantly refining his skills and learning from the best. As his high school career progressed, his stature as one of the top prospects in the nation grew, and by the time he was ready to make his decision about where to play college basketball, the choice was clear: Duke University.
“Cooper always wanted to play for a program that would push him to be the best version of himself,” Lori explains. “Duke, with its rich history of success and its reputation for developing NBA-caliber players, was the perfect fit. I know he’s going to be surrounded by great coaches and teammates there, and it’s going to help him grow even further.”
While Lori remains humble about her son’s abilities, she has witnessed firsthand the dedication and commitment Cooper has put into his craft. His decision to commit to Duke is not only a testament to his basketball IQ but also to his ambition and his belief that he can contribute to a championship-winning program.
National Championship Chances for Duke Basketball
As Cooper Flagg prepares to take his talents to Durham, one of the burning questions on the minds of Duke fans and basketball analysts alike is: What are the Blue Devils’ chances of winning the 2025 NCAA National Championship with Flagg on the team?
For Lori, the question is simple. With the level of talent Cooper brings to the table and the leadership he can provide, she believes that Duke has a legitimate shot at capturing another NCAA title.
“Cooper is the type of player who can change the game on both ends of the court. He’s not just an offensive force, but defensively, he’s a game-changer too,” Lori states. “He has the potential to lead the team to a national championship. I think Duke fans have a lot to be excited about.”
Flagg’s versatility as a player is one of the primary reasons why his mother is so confident in his impact. Standing at 6-foot-9, Cooper is known for his ability to both stretch the floor and dominate in the paint. His well-rounded skill set includes excellent passing, rebounding, scoring, and an exceptional ability to read the game. Whether it’s hitting a clutch three-pointer, blocking a shot, or facilitating for his teammates, Flagg can do it all.
More importantly, Lori is quick to note that Cooper’s basketball IQ is off the charts. This intelligence, combined with his physical gifts, makes him a standout player in any game. And, with head coach Jon Scheyer at the helm of Duke, Lori believes that Cooper is entering a program that is uniquely suited to maximize his potential.
“Coach Scheyer has done a phenomenal job leading Duke. He understands how to build championship teams, and Cooper will thrive in that environment,” Lori explains. “This team is going to be special. They have a good mix of veterans and newcomers, and I think Cooper will make an immediate impact.”
While Lori is realistic about the challenges that lie ahead, she also knows that Cooper has the drive, mentality, and support system to take Duke basketball to new heights. With a full season to prepare and develop under the guidance of Coach Scheyer and his staff, Duke has all the ingredients needed for a deep tournament run.
“Duke basketball has a long legacy of success, and Cooper wants to be a part of that. But he also knows that it’s going to take hard work and sacrifice,” Lori adds. “I have no doubt that he’s ready to put in that work.”
Cooper’s NBA Draft Prospects: A Future Star
As Cooper Flagg gets set to embark on his college basketball career, another major question looms large: What are his prospects in the NBA Draft?
While Cooper’s focus is undoubtedly on his time at Duke, there’s no denying the potential he has to become one of the top picks in the NBA Draft. With his all-around game and rare combination of size, athleticism, and skill, he is expected to be one of the most highly sought-after players in the 2026 NBA Draft class.
Lori is fully aware of the attention that Cooper is receiving from NBA scouts, but she insists that her son’s mindset remains focused on developing his game and helping Duke succeed before anything else.
“Cooper has always had the dream of playing in the NBA, but right now, his focus is on getting better every day at Duke,” Lori says. “He knows the NBA will be there, but he’s not looking past the opportunity to play for Duke and be a part of a team that could win a national championship. We always tell him to keep the main thing the main thing, and for him, that means working hard and helping his team.”
Lori also shares that Cooper understands the importance of being patient and developing the right way. He isn’t rushing the process but is instead taking the time to learn, grow, and improve with each passing day. She believes that this approach will not only help him have a successful college career but will also set him up for a smooth transition to the NBA when the time comes.
“We’ve had a lot of conversations about the NBA, and Cooper knows that it’s not just about the accolades or being drafted,” Lori explains. “It’s about having a long, successful career. He’s always been focused on the journey, not the destination, and that’s something that will serve him well as he moves forward.”
As a mother, Lori is immensely proud of Cooper’s growth, not just as a player, but also as a person. She credits the values and work ethic instilled in him by his family, as well as the support he has received from his coaches and teammates. She is excited to see him take the next steps in his career, but she is also thankful for the opportunity to watch him play at the highest level in college basketball.
“Watching Cooper grow as a person and a player has been such an incredible experience,” Lori says with a smile. “We’re so proud of everything he’s achieved, and we know there’s so much more ahead for him.”
The Future is Bright for Cooper Flagg and Duke Basketball
As Cooper Flagg heads into his first season with Duke basketball, there is no shortage of anticipation surrounding his debut. With the combination of his elite talent, his leadership qualities, and the guidance of Jon Scheyer and his coaching staff, the Blue Devils are poised for a successful season and a legitimate run at the 2025 NCAA Championship.
But for Cooper’s mother, Lori, it’s not just about the titles and accolades—it’s about the journey and the relationships that will shape his future.