Duke Sends Strong Message to Tyrese Proctor After Declaring For NBA Draft

The Duke Blue Devils put together an impressive 2024-25 season, even though they didn’t accomplish their ultimate goal. They finished with a 35-4 record, and if it hadn’t been for a couple of miscues in the Final Four round of the men’s NCAA Tournament against Houston, they would’ve faced Florida for the national championship.

Much of the credit went to Cooper Flagg, the freshman phenom who is expected to declare for the NBA draft and become a big star at the next level.

But in the meantime, another promising Duke player is headed to the pros. Guard Tyrese Proctor has made himself eligible for June’s draft, and the school sent a message of gratitude on its official X account to him.

“League next,” the post read. “Duke forever.

“Thank you @TyreseProctor”

Proctor is a sharpshooting backcourt player who averaged 12.4 points a game and made 40.5% of his 3-point attempts this past season. He’s a lethal outside shooter, not just in catch-and-shoot situations but also off his own dribble.

He has shown a ton of improvement in that area. As a freshman during the 2022-23 season, he shot just 32% from downtown, but he is now pretty elite in that department.

At 6-foot-6, Proctor is also a promising defender who came up with 0.8 steals per game this past season.

He is also one of a growing number of standout basketball players who are originally from Australia. He grew up in Sydney, and he received a scholarship to attend the NBA Global Academy in Canberra.

GOODWILL: Cooper Flagg Invests $3.3 Million to Transform Historic Home into Safe Haven for Homeless Youth in Maine

In an inspiring act of generosity and community leadership, basketball phenom Cooper Flagg has announced a $3.3 million investment to convert a historic property in Maine into a safe haven for homeless youth. The 17-year-old Duke commit, already celebrated for his athletic prowess, is now making headlines for his commitment to addressing youth homelessness in his home state. The project, which will restore a 19th-century mansion in Newport, aims to provide shelter, resources, and opportunities for young people facing housing instability.

Flagg, who grew up in Maine, has long expressed a desire to give back to the community that supported his rise to basketball stardom. His decision to fund this initiative reflects both his personal values and his understanding of the challenges faced by vulnerable youth. “No kid should have to worry about where they’re going to sleep at night,” Flagg said in a statement. “This is about giving them a safe place to stay, but also the support they need to build a better future.”

The historic home, once a symbol of wealth and prestige, will be transformed into a fully equipped facility offering more than just shelter. Plans include private bedrooms, communal living spaces, a kitchen and dining area, study rooms, and recreational spaces. Additionally, the center will partner with local organizations to provide counseling, job training, educational support, and healthcare services. By addressing both immediate needs and long-term stability, the project seeks to break the cycle of homelessness for Maine’s youth.

The issue of youth homelessness is often overlooked, yet it affects thousands of young people across the country. In Maine alone, an estimated 1,000 minors experience homelessness each year, many of whom are fleeing unsafe living conditions or aging out of foster care. Without stable housing, these individuals face heightened risks of exploitation, mental health struggles, and interrupted education. Flagg’s initiative aims to combat these challenges by creating a nurturing environment where young people can regain stability and hope.

Local leaders have praised the project as a game-changer for the community. “Cooper’s vision goes beyond just putting a roof over their heads,” said Newport Mayor Samantha Warren. “He’s creating a place where these kids can heal, grow, and thrive. It’s a testament to his character and his love for Maine.” Nonprofit organizations specializing in youth services have also pledged their support, ensuring that the facility will be staffed with trained professionals dedicated to helping residents rebuild their lives.

The restoration of the historic property is another key aspect of the project. Built in the 1800s, the mansion had fallen into disrepair in recent decades. Flagg’s investment will not only preserve an important piece of local architecture but also repurpose it for a meaningful cause. Renovations are expected to begin within the next six months, with the goal of opening the doors to residents by late 2025.

Flagg’s commitment has sparked a wave of support from fans, fellow athletes, and philanthropists. Several NBA players have reportedly reached out to contribute to the initiative, and local businesses have offered donations of furniture, supplies, and services. The project has also inspired discussions about how other communities can replicate similar efforts to support homeless youth.

While Flagg’s basketball career continues to draw national attention, his off-court impact may prove to be his most enduring legacy. At an age when most teenagers are focused on their own futures, he has chosen to invest in the futures of others. His actions highlight the power of using one’s platform for social good, setting an example for young athletes and public figures alike.

As the project moves forward, Flagg has expressed his hope that it will inspire others to take action. “This is just the beginning,” he said. “If we all do our part, we can make a real difference.” With his leadership, Maine’s homeless youth may soon have a place to call home—a place where they are safe, supported, and given the tools to succeed.

The announcement has been met with overwhelming positivity, with many calling it a beacon of hope in challenging times. For Cooper Flagg, this is more than a charitable donation; it’s a promise to uplift those who need it most. And for the youth who will walk through those doors, it could be the start of a brand-new life.

BREAKING NEWS: Excitement fills Lexington as Kentucky men’s basketball star Andrew Carr announces, I’m not going anywhere.

He is set to return for the 2025-26 season after making the bold decision.

Lexington is buzzing with excitement following a major announcement from Kentucky men’s basketball star Andrew Carr. In a move that caught fans and analysts by surprise, Carr declared, “I’m not going anywhere,” confirming he will return to the Wildcats for the 2025–26 season. The news broke earlier today and has already sparked celebration among Big Blue Nation, with social media flooded by fans praising the bold decision and expressing high hopes for the upcoming season.

Carr who transferred to Kentucky and quickly became a cornerstone of the team’s success, was expected by many to declare for the NBA Draft after an impressive 2024–25 campaign. Averaging 14.8 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks per game, the 6-foot-10 forward proved himself as a reliable two-way player and a team leader. His ability to stretch the floor, protect the rim, and bring energy on both ends of the court made him a standout not only in the SEC but on the national stage.

His return comes at a crucial time for Kentucky, as new Head Coach Mark Pope works to reestablish the program’s dominance. Pope, who took over the reins following John Calipari’s departure, has already made an impact by implementing a fast-paced, modern style of play and emphasizing player development. Carr’s decision to stay is seen as a major win for Pope, who called the return “a game-changer” and promised fans, “We’re building something special here — and Andrew Carr is a huge part of that vision.”

Sources close to the program say Pope has assured Carr that the team will be built around his strengths, and he will be given a leadership role both on and off the court. The coaching staff is also working to secure top recruits and key transfers to complement Carr’s skill set, with hopes of assembling a roster capable of a deep NCAA Tournament run.

As the city of Lexington embraces the news, the Wildcats’ outlook for next season just became significantly brighter. With Carr’s return, expectations are now sky-high. One thing is clear — Kentucky basketball isn’t just holding onto a star player. It’s keeping alive the dream of a championship run in 2026.

Duke’s star Cooper Flagg Reveals his next Destination and Who Has Final Say on His NBA Draft Decision

Duke star freshman Cooper Flagg is facing the biggest decision of his life.

The 18-year-old forward accomplished everything a first-year college player possibly could, short of winning a national championship.

Flagg was tabbed as the National College Player of the Year, ACC Player of the Year, ACC Rookie of the Year and NABC Freshman of the Year while also being named to the ACC All-Defensive Team and ACC All-Freshman Team.

He was also a consensus first-team All-American and first-team All-ACC selection, plus he won the Julius Erving, Lute Olson and Wayman Tisdale awards.

And while few would blame Flagg if he decided to be a one-and-done Blue Devil and jump to the NBA next season (he’s projected to be the No. 1 overall pick in the NBA Draft on June 25), it doesn’t seem like the decision whether or not to leave school is an easy one.

“I’m just going through the process,” Flagg said in a recent interview with Fox Sports. “Really, we haven’t had that much time to talk about it yet. I got the chance to come out here (Los Angeles) and take some time with myself and my family and take some time to reflect on the season I’ve had.

“I’m not in a particular rush. I’m just going through the process, going to talk with everybody I need to, and will make a decision on what’s best for me.”

Many are anxiously awaiting Flagg’s decision.

That group that includes the Utah Jazz, who have the No. 1 overall pick in June’s draft; Duke head coach Jon Scheyer, who would love to have his star pupil back in 2025 to make another run at a national title; and Flagg’s mother Kelly, who was front-and-center during the NCAA Tournament passionately cheering her son on all the way up to the Final Four.

But as for who ultimately has the final say on whether or not Flagg is ready to turn pro, he made it clear that decision is his and his alone.

“I think it comes from myself,” Flagg said. “Where I see myself, what I want, where my head is at. Both of my parents, my family, my agent, and obviously, my coaches and the staff. Those are the people I will talk to the most.”

While it likely won’t be the deciding factor in Flagg’s decision, it should be noted that one of Flagg’s teammates, fellow freshman Kon Knueppel, has entered the draft.

While being without Knueppel, who averaged 14.4 points, four rebounds and 2.7 assists per game this year, is a solid blow to Duke’s lineup, if Flagg did return for his sophomore season, he would have the benefit of playing with five-star power forward Cameron Boozer, along with his brother, four-star point guard Cayden Boozer, and five-star forward Shelton Henderson.

HEARTBREAKING: As Duke Blue Devils Suffer Devastating 5-Star Recruiting News

The Duke Blue Devils were ready to welcome five-star 2025 small forward Shelton Henderson to the team next season and have him be a big part of replacing Cooper Flagg, assuming Flagg enters the 2025 NBA draft.

However, there is a new update that has ended those hopes.

According to a report from Travis Branham, a national basketball analyst for 247 Sports, Henderson and Duke have parted ways. He has reopened his recruitment.

Losing Henderson is a tough blow for the Blue Devils and head coach Jon Scheyer. He was one of the top players in the nation and now looks to be headed elsewhere.

247 Sports has listed Henderson as the No. 2 small forward in the nation for the 2025 recruiting class. He is also ranked as the No. 14 overall player in the nation and the No. 1 prospect coming out of the state of Texas.

Adam Finkelstein, the director of scouting for 247 Sports, offered a brief summary of what Henderson brings to the court.

“Overall, he has an overlap of extreme physical gifts, feel for the game, intangibles, and two-way versatility that is unique in this class, and there’s still plenty of upside left to discover as he continues to develop and polish his skill-set,” he wrote.

Standing in at 6-foot-6 and 220 pounds, Henderson possesses great size and elite athleticism. Hailing from Bellaire, Texas, he will now become one of the most coveted recruits available in the nation.

Among the other teams who showed interest in Henderson prior to his commitment to Duke were the Texas Longhorns, Texas Tech Red Raiders, Houston Cougars, and Louisville Cardinals. Plenty of other teams will be in the mix as well.