Cooper Flagg of the Duke Blue Devils Declares, “I’m Not Going Anywhere” — Boldly Announces Return for 2025–26 Season

In a move that has electrified the college basketball world, Duke Blue Devils phenom Cooper Flagg announced today that he will return to Durham for the 2025–26 season, stunning many who assumed his next step would be the NBA. Speaking with a combination of confidence and loyalty that has already endeared him to Duke fans nationwide, Flagg simply said, “I’m not going anywhere.”

The news, confirmed by Flagg himself in an emotional press conference at Cameron Indoor Stadium, has sent shockwaves across college basketball, altering the landscape for next season and reaffirming Duke’s standing as a powerhouse poised for another national title chase.

A Stunning Decision in a One-and-Done Era

In today’s era, where many elite players spend just a single season at the collegiate level before making the jump to the NBA, Flagg’s announcement is both rare and refreshing. Projected as a potential No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, Flagg’s decision bucks the trend, highlighting his unique competitive spirit and deep commitment to Duke’s legacy.

“I love Duke. I love my teammates. I love playing here,” Flagg said, his voice steady and passionate. “We’ve got unfinished business. We’re building something special, and I want to be a part of it for another year. This is my home.”

Flagg’s return speaks volumes about his character and priorities. While the NBA and its millions beckoned, it was the call of college basketball glory — and the chance to etch his name even deeper into Duke lore — that won out.

A Historic Freshman Campaign

Flagg’s freshman season at Duke has been nothing short of historic. Averaging 19.2 points, 8.7 rebounds, 3.1 assists, and 2.5 blocks per game, he quickly established himself as not only the best freshman in the country but also one of the premier players overall. His electrifying performances against top-tier opponents and his poise in clutch moments earned him First Team All-American honors, ACC Player of the Year, and a spot as a finalist for the Naismith Trophy.

Perhaps most impressively, Flagg showcased a complete game — he could score from all three levels, defend multiple positions, facilitate offense, and elevate his teammates. His unique combination of skill, athleticism, and basketball IQ made it clear that he was NBA-ready. Yet, here he is, choosing loyalty over lottery.

Duke’s Future: Championship Aspirations Reignited

With Flagg’s announcement, Duke immediately becomes the odds-on favorite to enter the 2025–26 season as the No. 1 ranked team in the country.

The Blue Devils were already poised to bring back a talented core, including veteran guard Tyrese Proctor, sharpshooting wing Jared McCain (who also hinted at returning after Flagg’s announcement), and a loaded incoming freshman class headlined by five-star center Jayden Quaintance. Add Flagg back into that mix, and Duke’s roster is the kind that college basketball dreams are made of.

Head coach Jon Scheyer, visibly emotional while sitting beside Flagg at the press conference, praised the superstar for his decision.

“Cooper is a once-in-a-generation player and an even better person,” Scheyer said. “This is a decision that speaks volumes about who he is. He believes in Duke, in our program, and in our mission. We’re building something special, and Cooper’s return cements that.”

Scheyer also teased that Duke fans should “get ready for something unforgettable” next season, hinting that additional roster news might be coming soon — perhaps more returning players or late transfer portal additions.

Why Stay? Flagg’s Reasons Behind the Choice

Flagg outlined several key factors that contributed to his decision to return for a second season:

• Unfinished Business: After a heart-wrenching loss in the Final Four this past season, Flagg felt that there was “unfinished business” with Duke’s national championship aspirations.
• Development: Despite being NBA-ready, Flagg emphasized his desire to continue refining his game under Scheyer’s staff and against high-level college competition.
• Brotherhood: Flagg spoke at length about the bond he shares with his teammates, referencing the “Brotherhood” — Duke’s famed culture of camaraderie among current and former players.
• Love for Duke: Simply put, Flagg loves everything about being a Blue Devil — the fans, the environment, and the tradition.

“This isn’t about money or fame. Those things will come,” Flagg said. “This is about legacy. This is about family. I want to leave Duke even better than I found it.”

Reactions Pour In: College Basketball Celebrates

The reaction across the college basketball world has been one of shock, admiration, and excitement.

Former Duke legend Grant Hill tweeted, “Cooper Flagg staying at Duke is huge for the game! Love to see young men valuing their journey. #TheBrotherhood.”

Current NBA stars like Jayson Tatum and Zion Williamson also chimed in on social media, praising Flagg’s decision as mature and impactful for the sport.

Even rivals expressed begrudging respect. North Carolina head coach Hubert Davis said during a media appearance, “Obviously, we wish he wasn’t staying another year, but I respect his decision. He’s a great player, and college basketball is better with him in it.”

Analysts immediately moved Duke to No. 1 in their Way-Too-Early Top 25 for 2025–26, with ESPN’s Jay Bilas calling the Blue Devils “prohibitive favorites” and noting that Flagg’s decision “reshapes the entire power structure of college basketball.”

What It Means for the 2025–26 NBA Draft

Flagg’s return to college basketball also adds a new dynamic to the 2026 NBA Draft class, which will now likely feature Flagg at the top of the board. His competition for the No. 1 pick could include current high school stars, European phenoms, and even players from the G-League Ignite program.

Scouts universally agree that spending another year at Duke will only enhance Flagg’s draft stock — fine-tuning his decision-making, expanding his leadership role, and showcasing his ability to dominate consistently at the collegiate level.

“He’s not just trying to get to the NBA,” said one anonymous NBA scout. “He’s trying to arrive as the best player on Day One. That’s a special mindset.”

The Bigger Picture: A Moment for College Basketball

Flagg’s decision may have ripple effects beyond Durham. In an era when NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals have given elite players more financial options to stay in school, Flagg’s choice highlights a possible cultural shift — that staying longer in college can be just as prestigious and rewarding as an immediate leap to the professional ranks.

Sources close to Duke indicate that Flagg has significant NIL opportunities lined up for next year, but it’s clear from his comments that money was never the driving factor.

“This is a basketball decision and a personal one,” Flagg emphasized. “I’m focused on my growth, my team, and chasing championships.”

If Cooper Flagg can lead Duke to a national title next year — and based on today’s news, many will bet on it — his legacy could transcend his already towering potential, placing him among the greatest Blue Devils of all time.

What’s Next?

For Duke, the work now turns to solidifying the roster around Flagg. With players like McCain and Proctor potentially staying and elite freshmen incoming, Scheyer and his staff will have the enviable task of managing a roster loaded with star power.

Preseason practices will begin in the fall, and expectations will be at an all-time high. Every opponent will be gunning for Duke, but with Flagg leading the way, the Blue Devils will have both a target on their back — and the best player in the nation wearing their jersey.

For Flagg himself, the next few months will be about preparation — physically, mentally, and emotionally — for what could be a season for the ages.