Duke Basketball’s 2024 Recruiting Class: Cooper Flagg and the Potential Surprise Transfer
The Duke Blue Devils’ 2024 recruiting class has captured national attention, primarily due to the commitment of five-star forward Cooper Flagg. Flagg, a 6-foot-9 forward from Montverde Academy in Florida, is widely regarded as the top recruit in the 2024 class. His decision to join Duke has solidified Coach Jon Scheyer’s program as a formidable contender in college basketball.
Cooper Flagg: A Legacy in the Making
Born in Newport, Maine, Flagg’s basketball journey began at Nokomis Regional High School, where he quickly gained recognition for his exceptional skills. He later transferred to Montverde Academy, a renowned basketball powerhouse, to further develop his game. Flagg’s accolades include being named the Naismith Prep Player of the Year, a McDonald’s All-American, and a member of the Jordan Brand Classic and Nike Hoop Summit teams. His versatile playing style, combining scoring, defense, and leadership, has drawn comparisons to some of the game’s greats.
In his freshman year at Duke, Flagg made an immediate impact. He earned the prestigious Wooden Award, was named the ACC Player of the Year, and received multiple All-American honors. Flagg’s performances, including a record-breaking 42-point game against Notre Dame, have solidified his status as a future NBA prospect .
The Potential Surprise Transfer: Vanessa de Jesus
While the spotlight has been on Flagg, another significant development has emerged from the Duke program. Vanessa de Jesus, a guard on the women’s basketball team, has entered the transfer portal and is reportedly considering a move to Notre Dame. De Jesus, who has been a key contributor for Duke, brings leadership and experience to any team she joins. Her potential departure is noteworthy, given the historic rivalry between Duke and Notre Dame in women’s basketball .
Looking Ahead
As the 2024-2025 season approaches, Duke’s basketball programs—both men’s and women’s—are poised for success. The men’s team, led by Cooper Flagg, aims to build on its strong recruiting class and recent performances. The women’s team, despite potential roster changes, remains competitive and continues to attract top talent. With Coach Jon Scheyer at the helm, Duke’s commitment to excellence in basketball remains unwavering.
