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.

After breaking records at Duke, Maine town honors its star with a statue and other honors, marking Cooper’s immortalization.

Cooper Flagg’s meteoric rise in the basketball world has been nothing short of extraordinary. Hailing from Newport, Maine, Flagg’s journey from a small-town talent to a national sensation is a testament to his dedication, skill, and the unwavering support of his community.

Early Life and Rise in Maine

Growing up in Newport, Flagg exhibited an innate talent for basketball from a young age. His passion and prowess on the court led him to Montverde Academy in Florida, where he honed his skills and garnered national attention. Despite his relocation, Flagg’s roots in Maine remained strong, and he often spoke fondly of his hometown and its supportive community.

Record-Breaking Season at Duke

In the 2024-2025 season, Flagg’s freshman year at Duke University, he set the basketball world abuzz with his exceptional performances:

Historic 42-Point Game: In a game against Notre Dame, Flagg scored 42 points, setting a new ACC freshman record. He made 11 of 14 shots, including 4 of 6 from three-point range, and converted 16 of 17 free throws.

Consistent Excellence: Throughout the season, Flagg led Duke in points (18.9), rebounds (7.5), assists (4.2), and steals (1.4), earning him the Associated Press Men’s College Basketball Player of the Year award. He became only the fourth freshman in the award’s 64-year history to receive this honor.

Accolades and Honors: Beyond the AP Player of the Year, Flagg secured the Oscar Robertson Trophy and the Wayman Tisdale Award as the nation’s top freshman. He also set a new ACC record with 11 Rookie of the Week selections.

Maine’s Tribute to Its Star

In recognition of Flagg’s achievements and his enduring connection to his hometown, the town of Newport, Maine, has announced plans to honor him in several meaningful ways:

Erecting a Statue: A life-sized bronze statue of Flagg will be installed in the town’s central park. The statue will depict him in his Duke uniform, capturing a moment of triumph that reflects his impact on both the town and the sport.

Annual Cooper Flagg Day: The town will designate a day each year to celebrate Flagg’s contributions to basketball and his community. The day will feature youth basketball clinics, community picnics, and a ceremonial unveiling of the statue.

Cooper Flagg Scholarship Fund: A scholarship fund will be established in his name to support aspiring student-athletes from Newport pursuing higher education and athletic excellence. The fund aims to provide financial assistance and mentorship, ensuring that Flagg’s legacy of hard work and dedication continues to inspire future generations.

Community Impact and Legacy

Flagg’s influence extends beyond the basketball court. His humility, work ethic, and commitment to his roots have made a lasting impression on his community:

Role Model: Flagg serves as an inspiration to young athletes in Newport, demonstrating that with talent and determination, one can achieve greatness while remaining grounded.

Community Engagement: Despite his national fame, Flagg has maintained strong ties to Newport, frequently returning to mentor local youth and participate in community events.

Economic Boost: The announcement of the statue and associated events has attracted visitors to Newport, providing a boost to local businesses and fostering community pride.

Looking Ahead

As Flagg’s collegiate career progresses, and with the prospect of a professional career on the horizon, the town of Newport remains steadfast in its support. The planned honors serve as a testament to the profound impact he has had on his community and the sport of basketball. They ensure that his legacy will be celebrated for generations to come, inspiring future athletes to pursue excellence both on and off the court.

Cooper Flagg’s journey from Newport, Maine, to the pinnacle of college basketball is a story of talent, perseverance, and community. The forthcoming statue and honors are not just a celebration of his achievements but also a reflection of the values that define Newport—a town that nurtures its own and celebrates their successes. As Flagg continues to break records and inspire, his roots in Maine remain a foundational part of his identity, reminding us all of the importance of community and the enduring spirit of small-town America.

Kon Knueppel Sends Emotional Message to Duke Players Following Game-Changing Career Decision

In a surprising turn of events, Kon Knueppel, the highly regarded high school basketball player and recent commit to Duke University, has reached out to a fellow Duke player to express his support and encouragement after a pivotal career decision. This moment captures not only the camaraderie within the Blue Devils’ basketball program but also the spirit of mentorship that defines collegiate athletics

Knueppel, who gained national attention for his stellar performance at Wisconsin’s Nicolet High School, recently announced his decision to forgo his final year of high school eligibility to join the Blue Devils for the upcoming NCAA season. Known for his impressive shooting skills and basketball IQ, Knueppel is expected to contribute significantly to a team already brimming with talent. However, his decision has also sparked conversations about the pressures young athletes face in making such life-altering choices.

The player Knueppel reached out to is none other than Jeremy Roach, a senior guard who has been an integral part of Duke’s recent campaigns. Roach is currently weighing his future after declaring for the NBA Draft while maintaining the option to return to school. In his social media message, Knueppel praised Roach’s contributions to the program and emphasized the importance of making decisions that align with one’s personal and professional goals, regardless of external pressures.

“Hey, @JeremyRoach3, just wanted to say that I admire your game and everything you’ve done for Duke. I know this decision is tough, but I believe in you, whatever path you choose!” Knueppel wrote, alongside a photo of Roach in action. This gesture highlights the strong sense of community among the players, showing that even in a competitive atmosphere, support and encouragement are paramount.

As Knueppel prepares to transition into college basketball, he reflects on the journey that brought him to this point. “It wasn’t an easy decision to make, but I felt ready to take the next step in my career. I’ve grown so much over the years and being at Duke is a dream come true,” he expressed in a recent interview. His decision not only impacts his future but also shakes up the dynamics within the team, as young stars like Knueppel look to carve their own legacies while learning from established players like Roach.

BREAKING: From Duke to the Big League! Duke’s Kon Knueppel Is Coming! and He’s Got Something to Prove!..

Duke’s Kon Knueppel Is Coming, and He’s Got Something to Prove in the NBA

Watch Out, NBA – Duke’s Kon Knueppel Is Coming, and He’s Got Something to Prove!

The NBA better be on high alert—Duke’s Kon Knueppel is officially declaring for the 2025 NBA Draft, and he’s not just entering as another college standout.

He’s entering with a chip on his shoulder, something to prove, and the skills to back it up.

Knueppel announced his decision on social media, and while the post was humble, the message was clear: he’s ready. After a freshman season where he flashed elite shooting touch, basketball IQ, and calm under pressure, the 6’6″ wing has become a name that’s climbing up draft boards—and fast.

Many fans expected Knueppel to return to Duke for another year, but those who followed his game closely saw this coming. His polished offensive game, highlighted by his lights-out three-point shooting and ability to create space off the dribble, had NBA scouts circling him like sharks by midseason. Combine that with his underrated playmaking and positional versatility, and it’s no surprise he’s now being labeled one of the most intriguing prospects in this year’s class.

But don’t get it twisted—he’s heard the doubters. Critics question his athleticism, his defensive ceiling, and whether he can hang with NBA-level speed. That’s exactly why Kon’s got something to prove. And according to those close to him, that’s all the motivation he needs.

“He’s got that fire,” one scout told a major outlet. “You don’t see a lot of guys his age who understand the game the way he does. He’s been doubted before—and every time, he answers with results.”

Draft projections currently place Knueppel somewhere in the late first round to early second, but insiders are already whispering about a potential rise after team workouts and interviews. Teams looking for shooting, maturity, and high basketball IQ will find it hard to pass on him.

For now, Knueppel is keeping his head down and focusing on what he can control. But make no mistake: he’s coming for the league, and he’s ready to prove that his game translates—loudly.

The countdown to draft night is on, and Kon Knueppel just became one of the most fascinating stories to watch.