Durham, N.C. – In a chilling ordeal that has shocked the college basketball world and shaken the Duke University community to its core, Blue Devils freshman phenom Cooper Flagg narrowly escaped a brazen kidnapping attempt in the early hours of Wednesday morning. The 18-year-old basketball sensation, heralded as one of the most promising young athletes in America, found himself the target of what authorities are calling a “targeted and premeditated” abduction attempt outside a private residence near the Duke campus.
Flagg, known for his calm demeanor and fearless play on the hardwood, demonstrated those same qualities off the court during a terrifying sequence that unfolded just past midnight. According to Durham Police Department officials, Flagg managed to break free from his would-be abductors and contact law enforcement, resulting in a high-speed chase and the eventual apprehension of two suspects with alleged gang affiliations.
The news broke early Wednesday, triggering waves of concern across the NCAA, social media, and among Duke supporters worldwide. Details of the harrowing incident have since emerged, painting a disturbing picture of a meticulously coordinated attack that, had it not been for Flagg’s quick thinking and resolve, could have ended in tragedy.
The Ordeal: What Happened
According to the initial police report, Flagg had just left a late-night workout session at a private gym frequented by Duke athletes when he stopped at a friend’s off-campus residence on West Markham Avenue. Security footage shows that Flagg exited his vehicle briefly around 12:07 a.m. At 12:11 a.m., a black SUV pulled up behind him, and two masked individuals emerged.
Flagg, reportedly speaking with someone on the phone at the time, was approached by the suspects, who brandished a firearm and attempted to force him into the SUV. The phone call—placed to a Duke team manager—was still active, and the manager immediately called 911.
Witnesses reported hearing shouting and seeing Flagg resist the assailants. In a moment of remarkable bravery, Flagg allegedly elbowed one suspect, slipped free, and sprinted into the wooded area adjacent to the residence. Using his phone’s flashlight and GPS, Flagg navigated to a nearby gas station and flagged down a police officer responding to the emergency dispatch.
The suspects fled the scene but were apprehended 20 minutes later after crashing their vehicle during a police pursuit. They have been identified as Tariq Myles, 23, and Darnell Jenkins, 21—both with prior criminal records and potential ties to a local street gang.
A Planned Attack
Durham Police Chief Patrice Andrews held a press conference Wednesday morning, confirming that investigators believe Flagg was targeted specifically.
“This was not a random act,” Andrews stated. “We have strong reason to believe that the suspects had detailed knowledge of Mr. Flagg’s movements and schedule. Evidence recovered from the suspects’ vehicle includes surveillance photos, notes detailing workout times, and burner phones used to track his location.”
The motive for the attempted kidnapping remains under investigation, but authorities are exploring several possibilities, including ransom, extortion, or a plot tied to Flagg’s immense NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) valuation.
Flagg, already a household name in college basketball circles, signed lucrative endorsement deals totaling an estimated $2.7 million before playing a single college game. Such visibility and financial value have raised concerns across collegiate athletics about the vulnerabilities facing high-profile athletes, particularly those in the NIL era.
Flagg’s Response: Calm Under Pressure
Remarkably, Cooper Flagg appeared composed in a brief public statement released by his family and Duke University.
“I’m grateful to be safe and thankful to the Durham Police Department for their quick response. I want to thank everyone who has reached out in support. Right now, I’m focused on healing and getting back to work with my teammates.”
Flagg did not suffer any major physical injuries during the encounter, although sources within the program say he is undergoing trauma counseling. The university has since assigned him private security detail and is reviewing all protocols surrounding student-athlete safety.
Duke head coach Jon Scheyer, who recruited Flagg as the crown jewel of his 2024 class, expressed a mix of relief and outrage.
“What happened to Cooper is every coach’s worst nightmare. But he showed the same toughness off the court that he shows on it. We’re going to support him 100 percent and make sure this never happens again.”
Flagg did not practice with the team Wednesday but is expected to return to team activities later this week, depending on his mental and emotional recovery.
A Wake-Up Call for the NCAA?
The attempted kidnapping of a national basketball star has sent shockwaves through the NCAA and reignited discussions about the risks student-athletes face in the NIL landscape. Experts say that as athletes become more publicly identifiable and financially lucrative, the threat matrix changes dramatically.
“NIL has created a completely new security concern,” says Dr. Marcus Reid, a sports security expert and former FBI consultant. “When you have 18- or 19-year-olds walking around with millions in brand deals, suddenly they become targets not just for bad actors online—but in real life.”
University athletic departments, particularly at high-profile programs like Duke, have increased security in recent years. But even with private gyms, surveillance, and restricted access residences, the reality is that athletes still have to move around in public.
“It’s unsustainable to treat them like celebrities but expect them to live like students,” Reid added.
In response to the Flagg incident, NCAA President Charlie Baker issued a statement calling for a formal review of athlete safety procedures.
“This incident is a disturbing reminder of the changing nature of college athletics in the NIL era. We must do more to protect our athletes, on and off the field.”
A Community Rallies
In Durham and throughout the Duke fanbase, the reaction has been one of overwhelming support and concern for Flagg. Thousands took to social media under hashtags like #StandWithCooper and #ProtectOurPlayers to express solidarity. Several local businesses near the campus hung signs reading “We Love You Cooper” by Wednesday afternoon.
Teammates, past and present, voiced support as well. Former Duke star Zion Williamson posted on Instagram, “Glad you’re safe, young king. You’ve got a whole army behind you.” NBA stars like Jayson Tatum, LeBron James, and Kevin Durant also reposted the news with messages of support.
On Thursday evening, a candlelight vigil is planned at Krzyzewskiville, where students will gather to show support for Flagg and raise awareness about student-athlete safety. Duke University President Vincent Price will attend and speak at the event.
Looking Ahead
Flagg, just weeks away from his first collegiate game, was expected to be the centerpiece of Duke’s 2025 NCAA title hopes. Despite the trauma of this week’s events, those close to the program believe he’ll return stronger than ever.
“He’s the toughest competitor I’ve ever coached,” said associate head coach Chris Carrawell. “What he went through—nobody should ever have to. But if anyone can rise above it, it’s Coop.”
The legal process for the suspects is now underway. Both Myles and Jenkins face multiple felony charges, including attempted kidnapping, conspiracy to commit kidnapping, and assault with a deadly weapon. Bail has been denied as of Thursday morning.
Meanwhile, Flagg’s courage and presence of mind have only deepened his legend. Once merely a basketball prodigy, he now symbolizes resilience and bravery in the face of unthinkable danger.
As Duke prepares for the upcoming season, Flagg’s escape and survival will undoubtedly cast a long emotional shadow. But in the hallowed halls of Cameron Indoor Stadium, where banners of triumph hang above the court, a new story is unfolding—one of survival, solidarity, and the indomitable will of a young man who refused to be taken.