Cooper Flagg, the highly touted freshman forward for the Duke Blue Devils, has quickly made a name for himself as one of the top prospects in college basketball. With his remarkable combination of size, skill, and basketball IQ, Flagg has drawn comparisons to some of the game’s greatest players, and many believe he is destined for NBA stardom. As the 2025 season progresses, one question that has loomed large in the minds of fans and analysts alike is whether Flagg will return to Duke for another season or declare for the NBA Draft.
At this stage in his freshman season, the answer to that question appears to be leaning toward Flagg making the leap to the professional ranks. His talent has been on full display, and it’s increasingly clear that he is likely to be one of the top picks in the 2025 NBA Draft. With his ability to dominate both ends of the floor, Flagg has become one of the most sought-after prospects, and it seems highly improbable that he would return to college for another year when the opportunity to play in the NBA is within reach.
Flagg’s impact on the court for Duke has been immediate and significant. His defensive versatility, shot-blocking ability, and leadership have been a standout feature of his game. He has the rare ability to guard multiple positions, disrupt passing lanes, and impact the game in ways that few players at the college level can match. His offensive game, while still developing, has also been impressive, with Flagg showing an ability to score from various spots on the floor, finish around the rim, and even stretch the defense with his growing outside shooting.
Beyond his physical abilities, Flagg’s basketball IQ and work ethic have impressed coaches and scouts alike. His composure on the court and his ability to make his teammates better have led many to believe he has the potential to become a star at the next level. The high level of play he has exhibited in the NCAA Tournament has only solidified his status as a top NBA prospect. NBA teams are always looking for versatile, two-way players, and Flagg fits that mold perfectly, making him a likely candidate to be selected early in the draft.
The idea of returning to Duke for another season is appealing to some players, especially when considering the benefits of continuing to develop their game under a high-profile coach like Jon Scheyer. However, the reality for a player of Flagg’s caliber is that the financial and professional incentives to enter the NBA Draft are simply too strong to ignore. For a player who is projected to be a lottery pick, the opportunity to secure a multi-million dollar contract and play on the biggest stage in basketball is incredibly enticing.
The decision to leave Duke and enter the NBA Draft is not one that Flagg will take lightly, and it’s likely that he will take time to consider all of his options. However, based on the current trajectory of his career and the attention he has garnered from NBA scouts, it would be surprising if he did not declare for the draft after his freshman season. As one of the top prospects in the country, Flagg is expected to be highly coveted by NBA teams, many of which are already projecting him as a potential top-five pick.
What makes Flagg’s situation even more interesting is his ability to play both forward positions. His versatility gives him the ability to fit seamlessly into a variety of NBA systems, whether as a power forward or a small forward. His defensive skills, in particular, are something that NBA teams covet, as the modern game values players who can guard multiple positions and contribute on both sides of the ball. Additionally, Flagg’s leadership and work ethic have led many to believe that he is more than just a physical talent—he has the mentality and drive to succeed at the next level.
While Flagg’s future in the NBA looks incredibly promising, it’s important to remember that he is still a young player with plenty of room to grow. His development at Duke will be crucial in preparing him for the challenges of the NBA, and playing under a coach like Jon Scheyer will only help to refine his skills. However, given the trajectory of his career and the buzz surrounding his potential, it seems all but certain that Flagg will make the jump to the NBA after just one season at Duke.
The decision to leave college early for the NBA is one that many players face, and for Flagg, it will ultimately come down to his readiness for the professional level. While he has proven to be an elite player in college, the next step will require him to adjust to the faster pace and greater competition of the NBA. Nevertheless, with his skill set and determination, it seems clear that Flagg has the potential to make an immediate impact in the league.
As for Duke, the loss of Flagg will undoubtedly be a significant one. He has been a key piece of the Blue Devils’ success this season, and his departure will leave a hole in their roster. However, Duke has a rich tradition of developing NBA talent, and they will undoubtedly continue to recruit top-tier players to keep the program at the highest level. For now, Duke fans are likely to savor the remaining games of Flagg’s time in Durham, as they know that his time in college basketball is quickly coming to a close.
For Cooper Flagg, the 2025 NBA Draft is on the horizon, and it seems increasingly likely that he will be part of it. His combination of size, athleticism, and basketball IQ makes him a rare talent, and he is expected to be one of the top picks when the draft rolls around. While there are still many games left to play in the NCAA Tournament, Flagg’s future beyond college basketball is already taking shape, and it’s clear that the NBA is the next step in his promising career.
In the coming months, as the NCAA Tournament plays out and the draft approaches, all eyes will be on Cooper Flagg and his future. For now, fans of Duke and basketball enthusiasts alike are eager to see how Flagg performs in the tournament, knowing that it could be his final run in college basketball before embarking on his professional journey. Regardless of what the future holds, one thing is clear: Cooper Flagg is a once-in-a-generation talent, and his arrival in the NBA is sure to be one of the most highly anticipated events in the world of basketball.