​Cooper Flagg, Duke’s standout freshman, has expressed a desire to return for his sophomore year, surprising many anticipating his entry into the 2025 NBA Draft

Cooper Flagg, the standout freshman forward for Duke University, has become one of the most talked-about prospects in college basketball this season. After a stunning start to his career at Duke, Flagg was widely expected to declare for the 2025 NBA Draft, with many analysts predicting that he could be the number one overall pick. However, in an unexpected twist, Flagg has recently expressed a desire to return to college for his sophomore year, catching the basketball world by surprise.

In this article, we’ll explore the significance of Flagg’s decision, what it means for his future, and how it could impact both Duke and the NBA Draft.

The Rise of Cooper Flagg at Duke

Cooper Flagg’s journey to Duke was highly anticipated from the moment he announced his commitment to the Blue Devils. As a consensus five-star recruit, Flagg was regarded as one of the top high school players in the country and someone who could make an immediate impact at the collegiate level. His impressive skill set, which combines elite scoring ability, exceptional rebounding, and remarkable basketball IQ, has earned him widespread praise.

From his debut, Flagg lived up to the hype. In his first game for Duke, he demonstrated his versatility by scoring 18 points, grabbing seven rebounds, and dishing out five assists in a dominant victory over Maine. His performance not only confirmed his status as one of the top young talents in college basketball but also set the stage for what has been a remarkable freshman season.

Flagg’s ability to impact every facet of the game has made him one of the most exciting players to watch in college basketball. His scoring ability, particularly his shooting range and scoring under pressure, has been one of his most notable attributes. He has proven to be a force on both ends of the floor, excelling in transition play, defense, and leadership. By midseason, Flagg had firmly established himself as a frontrunner for the top pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.

The NBA Draft Picture

As the 2025 NBA Draft approached, Flagg’s name consistently appeared at the top of mock drafts. With his combination of size, skill, and athleticism, many believed that Flagg could be the next big thing in the NBA. Teams that were projected to be at the bottom of the standings, including the Brooklyn Nets and Charlotte Hornets, were hoping to secure a chance to draft the talented freshman.

Flagg’s performance throughout the season only strengthened his case as a potential number one pick. By the end of the regular season, he had averaged impressive numbers—19.6 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game. These stats, along with his leadership on the court, made him one of the most intriguing NBA prospects in years.

But despite the overwhelming expectation that he would enter the draft, Cooper Flagg shocked many by publicly stating that he was considering returning to Duke for his sophomore year.

The Unexpected Decision to Return

The announcement came in February 2025, when Flagg openly expressed his desire to return to Duke for another season. In an interview, Flagg stated, “I want to come back next year,” surprising not only the college basketball world but also NBA analysts who had already penciled him in as a future pro.

Flagg’s comments immediately ignited debate. Many believed it was a ploy to generate more attention or that he was merely testing the waters, unsure about making the leap to the pros. However, as the weeks went on, it became clear that Flagg was serious about his decision to stay at Duke.

What Influenced Flagg’s Decision?

There are several factors that likely influenced Cooper Flagg’s decision to return to Duke. Let’s examine some of the key considerations that may have played a role.

1. The NIL Factor

The introduction of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) rights has fundamentally changed the landscape of college athletics. For players like Flagg, NIL deals represent a significant source of income while remaining in college. Reports suggest that Flagg could earn anywhere between $6 million and $8 million in NIL deals if he chooses to stay at Duke for another year. This level of financial compensation would far exceed what he would likely make as a rookie in the NBA, especially considering that the first-year contracts for top picks are usually structured with salary caps and other limitations.

With NIL deals providing lucrative financial opportunities, it’s not surprising that Flagg would consider staying in college. The chance to build his brand, expand his network, and capitalize on his growing popularity while playing for a prestigious program like Duke is certainly an attractive proposition.

2. Development and Experience

While the allure of professional basketball is undeniable, there is also value in further developing one’s skills in college. Returning for a sophomore year would give Flagg the opportunity to refine his game, improve his leadership abilities, and continue to learn from Duke’s top-tier coaching staff. By playing another year in college, he could enhance his stock even further and potentially enter the NBA Draft with an even stronger resume.

Duke coach Jon Scheyer has been highly supportive of Flagg’s decision, emphasizing the importance of making a choice that aligns with his long-term goals. Scheyer has also pointed out that staying in college would allow Flagg to work on his weaknesses and further solidify his status as an NBA-ready player.

3. Team Considerations

Flagg’s decision may also be influenced by the state of the NBA teams that are expected to draft him. While teams like the Brooklyn Nets and Charlotte Hornets may have high picks in the 2025 Draft, both franchises have struggled in recent years. Flagg might prefer to continue his development at Duke rather than joining a rebuilding team with limited immediate prospects for success.

Furthermore, there’s the potential for a team that drafts him to not be in a position to help him grow as much as a college program like Duke could. In college, he can continue to work on his game under controlled circumstances, which may feel like a more secure and beneficial environment than the unpredictability of the NBA.

4. Personal Growth and Legacy

There’s also a personal and emotional aspect to Flagg’s decision. By staying at Duke, Flagg can continue to build his legacy in college basketball, playing for one of the most storied programs in the history of the sport. Returning for a second season could allow him to help lead Duke to a national championship, further solidifying his place in the college basketball history books.

Additionally, Flagg may want to experience the full college experience, including the camaraderie of playing with his teammates, the fan support at Duke, and the overall college atmosphere. For many athletes, the college experience is more than just basketball; it’s about personal growth, making lasting memories, and enjoying a sense of community that is hard to replicate in the professional ranks.

What Does This Mean for the NBA Draft?

Cooper Flagg’s decision to return to Duke has significant implications for the 2025 NBA Draft. If Flagg chooses to stay in college, it could drastically change the landscape of the draft. Other top prospects, such as [insert names of other prospects], could now be considered more likely to go as the number one overall pick.

For teams like the Brooklyn Nets and Charlotte Hornets, Flagg’s return might prompt them to reconsider their draft strategies and target other players. However, it also opens up the possibility for more surprises and movement within the lottery, as teams adjust to the absence of a consensus top pick.

Additionally, Flagg’s decision could change the way NBA teams approach the drafting process in the future. If more top prospects begin opting to stay in college for extended periods due to the allure of NIL deals and personal development, it could shift the NBA’s draft landscape and lead to more complex decisions for NBA general managers and scouts.  Cooper Flagg’s unexpected decision to return to Duke for his sophomore year is a game-changing development in both the world of college basketball and the 2025 NBA Draft. While the allure of the professional ranks is strong, the opportunities in college basketball, especially with NIL deals, have made it a more attractive option for many elite prospects.

As Flagg continues to deliberate over his future, the basketball world will be watching closely. Whether he ultimately returns to Duke or declares for the NBA Draft, one thing is certain: Cooper Flagg’s journey is far from over, and his decision will have lasting consequences for both the college game and the NBA.