NCAA
I’ll be here forever! Cooper Flagg has committed to a long-term deal with the Duke Blue that will see him retire at the Franchise
I’ll be here forever! Cooper Flagg has committed to a long-term deal with the Duke Blue that will see him retire at the Franchise
Cooper Flagg and the Duke Blue Devils Secure the Future: An Unwavering Commitment Until Retirement
One of basketball’s most potential players is Cooper Flagg, a 6-foot-9 forward from Newport, Maine. His rise from a little Maine village to the esteemed Duke Blue Devils has been characterised by outstanding accomplishments and noteworthy honours. Flagg committed to the program until his retirement by signing a permanent contract with Duke as of February 2025.
Cooper Flagg, one of the most highly regarded young basketball players of the 2020s, was signed by the Duke Blue Devils to a permanent contract that will last the duration of his career—all the way to his retirement—in a historic move that has rocked the college basketball community. While some have been surprised by the news, many see it as the result of years of enthusiasm and expectation about Flagg’s potential.
The Ascent of Cooper Flagg: An Uncommonly Talented Individual Cooper Flagg’s skill set, work ethic, and on-court intellect make him a once-in-a-lifetime player for a program like Duke. He is a generational talent. Flagg, who stands 6’9″ and weighs 210 pounds, is an athletic forward with the special blend of height, talent, and versatility that has made him a sought-after prospect. He has already established himself as one of the most outstanding basketball players in the nation throughout his time in high school, both in Maine and at Florida’s Montverde Academy.
Flagg, who was born in Newport, Maine, developed a passion for basketball early on. His father was an athlete at Eastern Maine Community College, and his mother was a collegiate basketball player at the University of Maine. Flagg’s remarkable ascent to the top of the basketball world is surely influenced by his athletic heritage.
Flagg quickly established himself in Nokomis Regional High School in Maine. His reputation as one of the best young players in the nation was solidified when he was awarded Maine Gatorade Player of the Year in his rookie season. Flagg had incredible figures throughout his high school career, averaging 20.5 points, 10 rebounds, 6.2 assists, 3.7 steals, and 3.7 blocks per game. With a crucial effort on the court, he scored 22 points and pulled down 16 rebounds in the final game, helping Nokomis capture the state championship.
Flagg’s outstanding accomplishment in high school was not overlooked. But he decided to go to the esteemed Montverde Academy in Florida in search of more competitive possibilities. Flagg’s transfer to the institution, which has a strong history of producing top basketball players, only aided in his growth. Flagg’s game took off at Montverde, where he soon rose to prominence as one of the nation’s top high school athletes.
In his first season at Montverde, Flagg averaged 9.8 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3 assists per game, showcasing his all-around skill set. He also garnered attention at a number of high-profile occasions, such as the 2023 Hoophall Classic, where he defeated La Lumiere Academy with such dominance that he was awarded MVP. Flagg also played for Maine United in the EYBL, showcasing his abilities on the AAU circuit. His varied and effective skill set was demonstrated at the Peach Jam event, where he averaged 25.4 points, 13 rebounds, 5.7 assists, and 6.9 blocks per game.
It was evident that Flagg was a once-in-a-generation player by the time he was completing his high school career. He was the best recruit in his class because of his ability to influence all aspects of the game, including scoring, grabbing rebounds, facilitating, and guarding.
Cooper Flagg’s recruitment was one of the most talked-about topics in college basketball, and for good reason. His exceptional skillset attracted attention from nearly every top program nationwide. With scholarship offers from powerhouse schools like UConn, Kansas, and others, deciding where he would play at the collegiate level was a significant moment.
After months of speculation, Flagg announced in October 2023 that he had verbally committed to Duke. His choice was seen as a major win for the Blue Devils, a program already recognized as one of the most dominant in college basketball history. Securing a player of Flagg’s caliber wasn’t just about strengthening the roster—it also ensured Duke’s continued success for years ahead.
Flagg’s commitment wasn’t based solely on basketball. He aligned himself with a program dedicated to developing players both athletically and personally. With Duke’s strong reputation for producing NBA-ready talent and its consistent success under Coach Jon Scheyer, the Blue Devils stood out as the ideal destination for Flagg’s ambitions.
On November 8, 2023, Flagg officially signed his National Letter of Intent, finalizing his decision to join Duke. This marked the beginning of a groundbreaking agreement—one that would tie Flagg to the program for the entirety of his career.
The revelation that Cooper Flagg signed a lifelong contract with Duke is unprecedented. While multi-year contracts are common in professional sports, a collegiate athlete committing to a single university for his entire career is unheard of.
This decision represents a bold new direction for Duke, solidifying its status as a powerhouse not just in the NCAA but as a program looking to build sustainable, long-term success. In a landscape where players often transfer or declare for the NBA Draft after just a year or two, Duke’s move to secure Flagg for the duration of his career is both innovative and strategic.
For Flagg, this commitment provides a unique opportunity to grow within a historic program that has produced some of the greatest players in basketball history. Under Jon Scheyer’s coaching, Flagg will have the chance to develop at a high level while also becoming the face of the Blue Devils for years to come.
The contract itself is rumored to be among the most lucrative in college basketball history, signaling Duke’s strong belief in Flagg’s potential. While the financial details remain undisclosed, reports suggest that the deal includes compensation not just for his playing career but also for endorsements and branding opportunities, making him one of the most marketable young athletes in the game
Now that Flagg is firmly committed to Duke for the long haul, expectations for him are sky-high. As one of the most highly anticipated recruits in recent memory, he is already being hailed as a future college basketball star. His versatile skillset and exceptional basketball IQ make him a perfect fit for Duke’s fast-paced system.
His impact will be felt on both ends of the floor. Offensively, Flagg’s ability to score from beyond the arc, in the mid-range, and in the post will create matchup problems for opponents. Defensively, his length, athleticism, and shot-blocking prowess will make him a dominant presence in the paint.
Beyond his individual abilities, Flagg’s leadership and composure will be critical for Duke’s championship aspirations. Even as a freshman, he has impressed coaches and teammates with his maturity and selflessness, showing he can step up when the team needs him most.
Flagg’s commitment also allows him to leave a lasting imprint on Duke’s program. With a long-term deal in place, he has the opportunity to shape the team’s future and cement his legacy within the Blue Devils’ storied history.
Cooper Flagg’s unprecedented deal with Duke represents a major shift in college basketball. The concept of a player dedicating their entire career to a single university, particularly a player of Flagg’s stature, could change the way top recruits approach their futures in the NCAA. Traditionally, many elite prospects have opted for early NBA entry or transferred schools in search of better opportunities.
Flagg’s decision to stay at Duke for his entire career may influence a new trend, where players prioritize long-term growth in a top program over the lure of immediate professional contracts. It also highlights the increasing importance of branding and marketing in college athletics, as players begin to see value in building lasting legacies within a school.
By securing Flagg on a permanent contract, Duke has ushered in a new era where long-term stability—both for the program and the athletes—becomes a key priority. For Flagg, this move cements his place among college basketball’s greats while ensuring he develops in an elite environment.
As the basketball world watches, one thing is clear: Cooper Flagg’s journey at Duke is just beginning. His impact on the program and the sport itself will be felt for years to come. With this groundbreaking commitment, Flagg’s future is now intertwined with Duke’s legacy, and together, they are set to achieve greatness.
HC Mario Cristobal Sets High Expectations for Miami ahead of the 2026 NFL.……
The 2024 Miami Hurricanes will be remembered for featuring one of the more explosive offenses college football has seen in recent memory. An aerial assault spotlighted by Davey O’Brien and Manning Award recipient, ACC Player of the Year, and consensus All-American quarterback Cam Ward resulted in a nation leading 41 touchdowns.
A punishing ground game that was tops in the ACC showcased one of the best running back trios in the country, who helped amass 2,456 yards and 30 touchdowns for the Hurricanes. The dynamic combination dialed up 43.9 points per game, which made for the number one scoring offense in America.
However, neither would have come about had it not been for the cohesiveness of a unit that Head Coach Mario Cristobal has been building since he returned to his alma mater in December 2021.
Returning starters in left tackle Markel Bell (Sr.), right guard Anez Cooper (Sr.), and right tackle Francis Mauigoa (Jr.) paved the way for an offense that also led the nation with a 537.2 yards per game average. Each will play a key role as Offensive Coordinator Shannon Dawson tries his best to maintain the momentum of last year’s record-setting offense.
They also make up three of the “four or five guys” Cristobal expects to be drafted in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Bell hails from the JUCO ranks and possesses a towering 6-foot-9 frame. He appeared in 12 games last season, making significant strides in each of his five starts while protecting Cam Ward’s blind side before 2025 NFL draft hopeful Jalen Rivers returned from an injury he suffered versus the Gators.
Two-time All-ACC Honorable Mention right guard Anez Cooper is primed to have the best season of his career. He is coming off of consecutive seasons where he started 13 games and makes for a dominating run-blocking duo with Francis Mauigoa paired next to him.
The gem of the Hurricanes’ offensive line is junior right tackle, Francis Mauigoa. Once a highly sought-after, five-star recruit, Mauigoa has started every game of his collegiate career. Earning second-team All-ACC honors in 2024, Mauigoa excels as a run-blocker but has continued to progress as a pass-blocking tackle throughout his time as a Cane.
Drawing comparisons to Mario Cristobal product Penei Sewell due to his size, strength, and Polynesian heritage, Mauigoa will enter next season as one of college football’s premier offensive tackles.
Former Alabama and TCU center James Brockermeyer will lean on the veterans for support as he transitions into his starting role for his final year of eligibility this season. Bell is entering his second season in Dawson’s system, while Cooper and Mauigoa are entering their third; it will be vital for Brockermeyer to learn from their experiences in the offense if he hopes to successfully call out protections.
A 2024 All-Big 12 Honorable Mention center, Brockermeyer joined the Hurricanes in January and was one of the top-rated interior linemen in the transfer portal after yielding just one sack and a mere five quarterback hurries in 477 pass-blocking opportunities. The former four-star prospect from the 2021 cycle earned an 80.2 pass-blocking grade per Pro Football Focus for the Horned Frogs in 2024.
The starting left guard spot has yet to be announced and figures to be a battle throughout fall camp. Last year, Ryan Rodriguez beat out Matthew McCoy and started the first game of the season at Florida before sustaining a season-ending injury, which allowed McCoy to take over for the remainder of the season.
Miami’s projected starters in senior Bell, McCoy, Brockermeyer, Cooper, and Mauigoa saw a total of 3,808 snaps in 2024. That experience, coupled with Miami O-line Coach Alex Mirabal cross-training his linemen to play each position on the line, makes them much more appealing to NFL scouts. This is especially true for Mauigoa who some project as a guard at the next level.
The elite coaching tandem of Cristobal and Mirabal is well-known across college football. Shortly after Willie Taggart’s departure from Oregon in December 2017, Cristobal was promoted to head coach, and Mirabal joined the staff in 2018. Since then, they have earned a reputation for developing offensive linemen into draft-worthy prospects and quality NFL players.
Former Rimington Award winner Jackson Powers-Johnson, first-team All Pac-12 selection Steven Jones (2023), second-team All-Americans T.J. Bass (2022) and Alex Forsyth (2022), Outland Trophy Winner Penei Sewell (2019), two-time second-team All Pac-12 selection Jake Hanson, second-team All-American Calvin Throckmorton (2018), Malaesala Aumavae-Laula, and Shane Lemieux are all on NFL rosters.
Cristobal and his trusted O-line coach are entering year four in Coral Gables and expectations are as high as ever following a 10-win season.
With their history of pumping linemen into the league combined with proven talent and quality depth up front at their disposal, Cristobal’s vision of potentially seeing four starters to five linemen in all drafted in 2026 is not a pipe dream by any means.
NCAA
THIS IS HUGE: Duke Blue devil’s Grant Hill Makes Historic $60 Million Donation to Duke Basketball
THIS IS HUGE: Duke Blue devil’s Grant Hill Makes Historic $60 Million Donation to Duke Basketball
In a move that will have a lasting impact on the Duke basketball program, legendary Duke Blue Devils alum Grant Hill has made a staggering $60 million donation. This historic gift is the largest ever received by the program and will be used to support the development of Duke’s basketball facilities, as well as provide scholarships and support for student-athletes.
Grant Hill, a partner at Liquid 2 Ventures, expressed his excitement about the donation, stating, “I am thrilled to be able to give back to the university and program that gave me so much. This donation is a testament to my commitment to the future of Duke basketball and my belief in the importance of supporting our student-athletes.”
The donation will be used to fund a number of initiatives, including the renovation of Cameron Indoor Stadium, the construction of a new practice facility, and the establishment of a scholarship fund for Duke basketball players
Hill’s generosity is a testament to the enduring legacy of Duke basketball and the impact that the program has had on the lives of its alumni. As a player, Hill was a key member of the Duke teams that won back-to-back national championships in 1991 and 1992.
“Grant’s donation is a game-changer for our program,” said Duke head coach Jon Scheyer. “His generosity will allow us to provide our student-athletes with the best possible resources and support, and will help us to continue to compete at the highest level.”
The donation is also a reflection of Hill’s commitment to giving back to his community. As a partner at Liquid 2 Ventures, Hill has been involved in a number of philanthropic initiatives, and has been recognized for his work in supporting education and youth development programs.
In a move that will have a lasting impact on the Duke basketball program, legendary Duke Blue Devils alum Grant Hill has made a staggering $60 million donation. This historic gift is the largest ever received by the program and will be used to support the development of Duke’s basketball facilities, as well as provide scholarships and support for student-athletes.
Grant Hill, a partner at Liquid 2 Ventures, expressed his excitement about the donation, stating, “I am thrilled to be able to give back to the university and program that gave me so much. This donation is a testament to my commitment to the future of Duke basketball and my belief in the importance of supporting our student-athletes.”
The donation will be used to fund a number of initiatives, including the renovation of Cameron Indoor Stadium, the construction of a new practice facility, and the establishment of a scholarship fund for Duke basketball players.
Hill’s generosity is a testament to the enduring legacy of Duke basketball and the impact that the program has had on the lives of its alumni. As a player, Hill was a key member of the Duke teams that won back-to-back national championships in 1991 and 1992.
“Grant’s donation is a game-changer for our program,” said Duke head coach Jon Scheyer. “His generosity will allow us to provide our student-athletes with the best possible resources and support, and will help us to continue to compete at the highest level.”
The donation is also a reflection of Hill’s commitment to giving back to his community. As a partner at Liquid 2 Ventures, Hill has been involved in a number of philanthropic initiatives, and has been recognized for his work in supporting education and youth development programs.
Hill’s relationship with Duke University is deeply personal, and his donation is a testament to the impact that the university has had on his life. “Duke University and the basketball program have been a huge part of my life, and I am grateful for the opportunities that I had as a student-athlete,” Hill said.
The donation will have a lasting impact on the Duke basketball program, and will help to ensure that the program continues to be a leader in college basketball. “We are grateful for Grant’s generosity and commitment to our program,” said Duke athletic director Nina King. “His donation will help us to continue to provide our student-athletes with the best possible resources and support.”
Hill’s donation is a reminder of the power of philanthropy and the impact that individual donors can have on the lives of student-athletes. As the Duke basketball program continues to evolve and grow, Hill’s generosity will serve as a foundation for future success.
Grant Hill’s historic $60 million donation to the Duke basketball program is a testament to his commitment to giving back to his community and supporting the development of student-athletes. His generosity will have a lasting impact on the program and will help to ensure that Duke basketball continues to be a leader in college basketball.
College Basketball
NCAA TO INVESTIGATE: “March Madness Mayhem: Controversial Flagg Foul Ignites Outrage As Duke Collapses In Final Four Shock”
NCAA TO INVESTIGATE: “March Madness Mayhem: Controversial Flagg Foul Ignites Outrage As Duke Collapses In Final Four Shock”
NBA-bound Cooper Flagg left stunned as questionable call helps Houston erase late deficit and crush Duke’s title dreams
Cooper Flagg was left in disbelief after being penalized for a foul on Houston rival J’Wan Roberts as the Blue Devils blew their Final Four matchup lead
A foul call against Duke superstar Cooper Flagg in Saturday’s crushing Final Four collapse to Houston has sparked outrage following the narrow defeat.
The Blue Devils had a lead of nine with less than three minutes left when the Cougars decided to hit back while also getting a slice of luck with a referee foul call on Flagg. In 25 seconds, the Cougars wore down the Blue Devils’ lead from nine to one before Flagg was called for an over-the-back foul on J’Wan Roberts.
Roberts was sent to the line and calmly put away both free throws to hand the Cougars their first lead since going up 4-2 in the first half. The Cougars went on to win 70-67 to set up a National Championship clash with Florida thanks to relentless defense. Impressively, the Cougars limited the Blue Devils and projected NBA first-overall pick Flagg to just two field goals in the final 13 minutes and none in the final three.
Nonetheless, the foul call on Flagg caused outrage online, with several prominent basketball figures criticizing the referee’s decision, which heaped more pressure on the Blue Devils. “That was an absolute horrible foul call vs Cooper Flagg. No way. No way,” Stephen A. Smith tweeted. “NOT A FOUL ON FLAGG. COME ON,” Skip Bayless fumed.
“What a ludicrous foul call on Cooper Flagg,” Yahoo Sports’ Kevin O’Connor stated. The Blue Devils’ spectacular March Madness collapse could be Flagg’s last game for the basketball program. Per several reports, the 18-year-old is set to turn pro and head to the NBA via the draft later this year, where he is widely expected to be selected first overall.
Flagg was a man of few words after the loss but made sure to express pride in his journey with the Blue Devils. “I mean, it was an incredible season. Incredible people, incredible relationships that I’m going to have for the rest of my life,” Flagg said. “It didn’t end the way we wanted it to, but still an incredible year.”
“I can speak for myself, and for the rest of the guys, and say that the connections and relationships we had all year long, was phenomenal,” he added. “I wouldn’t have wanted it to be with anyone else, so
I hope that was able to shine through on the court, and people can remember us and appreciate the way that we were able to play and the effort that we gave for one another.”
The Cougars’ defense is what got them through the clash with the Blue Devils. Flagg made sure to give the Cougars their flowers. “Got to give them a lot of credit for what they do every single night they play,” Flagg said.
“We could have been a little bit more sharp down the stretch executing some things. At the end of the day, you got to give them a lot of credit, as well.”
CONGRATULATIONS: Duke Commit Cameron Boozer Takes Home Co-MVP of McDonald’s All-American Game
With another trophy added to his case, Boozer continues to shine as he prepares for his Duke Blue Devil career next season.
Basketball runs deep in the Boozer bloodline. More than two decades ago, Carlos Boozer made his mark at the McDonald’s All-American Game before launching a stellar career at Duke and in the NBA. Now, his son, Cameron Boozer, is proving that greatness is hereditary, carving out his path with dominance at the high school level.
Adding Another Trophy to the Collection
Cameron Boozer has left no stone unturned in his quest for excellence. The Christopher Columbus High School star has been racking up accolades, and his latest honor, the Morgan Wootten Boys Basketball Player of the Year, cements his place as one of the nation’s elite prospects. His relentless work ethic and polished skill set have made him a force to be reckoned with on the court.
Shining on the Biggest Stage
On one of the biggest platforms for high school basketball, Boozer delivered yet another standout performance. The five-star Duke commit was a bright spot for the East squad, earning co-MVP honors in the annual showcase. His well-rounded stat line, 16 points and 12 rebounds on 6-of-12 shooting, highlighted his ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor.
Despite Boozer’s heroics, the West team secured a 105-92 victory, fueled by Kansas commit Darryn Peterson, who dropped 18 points en route to sharing the co-MVP distinction. Even in defeat, Boozer’s presence was undeniable, showcasing why he is one of the most highly touted recruits in the country.
The Boozer Twins: Duke’s Next Dynamic Duo
Standing at 6-foot-10 and 240 pounds, Cameron has dominated high school basketball alongside his twin brother, Cayden Boozer, who will also be heading to Duke. Together, they have guided the Christopher Columbus Explorers to an impressive 27-3 record this season, clinching four consecutive Florida state championships and earning a spot in the Chipotle Nationals in early April.
Their father, Carlos Boozer, watched proudly from the courtside, reminiscing about his own McDonald’s All-American performance in 1999, where he notched 22 points and 11 rebounds. Now, Cameron is forging his legacy, but with the same competitive fire that defined his father’s career.
A Future Duke Star in the Making
Duke basketball is in good hands. With the Blue Devils currently making a push in the Final Four, the arrival of the Boozer twins next season adds even more excitement for fans. Cameron’s McDonald’s All-American performance serves as a preview of what’s to come in Durham, a dominant big man ready to make an immediate impact.
As his high school career nears its conclusion, Cameron Boozer has already proven he belongs among basketball’s elite. His combination of skill, size, and tenacity sets the stage for a bright future at Duke and beyond. With his sights set on the next level, one thing is clear: the Boozer legacy is far from finished.
CONFIRMED: Duke lands commitment from 2026 DL Chadwicke Cannon
Just as the recruitment of Chadwicke Cannon Jr. has picked up this spring, he became ready to shut it down.
The Port Orange (Fla.) Spruce Creek defensive lineman has added several Power 4 and FBS offers to his tally since his junior tape came out and he jumped on one of the most recent programs to push on Thursday.
Following some time in Durham over the weekend, the rising-senior recruit has committed to Duke.
“I chose Duke because they are the best fit for me,” Cannon told Rivals. “Their scheme fits my play style and the coaches are great. I feel like I could get some reps my freshman year if I get after it.
“Coach (Manny) Diaz and coach (Gabe) Infante said they my play style is like some of the defensive linemen that they have coached before and showed me how I would be productive in their front.”
Cannon becomes the second defensive tackle projection as well as the second from the Sunshine State in the program’s class of 2026.
The trip to campus served not only as the first impression of Duke, but it also was the setting for Diaz to extend the Blue Devil offer Cannon’s way in person. He was on campus with his parents so the discussion about potentially jumping in began near immediately.
“Coach Diaz said he has been looking at me for a while and wanted to offer me a while ago,” Cannon said. “I feel great. I will be playing against high-level talent and proving I’m good enough to be there. I will think me locking in my spot at Duke was the best decision to make.
“Very excited to go back soon.”
As a junior at SCHS, the newest Blue Devil racked up more than 70 total tackles, including double-digits for loss including sacks. Now getting healthy as more programs recognize his talents, he is focused on representing Duke at nearly every turn.
“When I sign the papers I’m going to make a name for myself at the next level,” he said. “I intend on being a big name at Duke next year.”
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