‘After discussing with my family and the coaches, I’ve decided to return to Duke. Cooper Flagg announces

Cooper Flagg Announces Return to Duke: A Game-Changer for College Basketball

In a move that has sent shockwaves across the college basketball landscape, Cooper Flagg, the top prospect in the 2024 class and a projected future NBA lottery pick, has officially announced his decision to return to Duke University for another season. The decision, revealed in a statement on Monday, included a heartfelt message: “After discussing with my family and the coaches, I’ve decided to return to Duke.” This declaration, both surprising and inspiring, is bound to have a profound impact on not just Duke basketball but the entire college hoops scene.

Flagg, a 6-foot-9 forward known for his versatility, defensive instincts, and high basketball IQ, was widely expected to be a one-and-done player when he committed to the Blue Devils. His freshman season lived up to the hype and then some. Averaging 17.3 points, 8.5 rebounds, 3.2 assists, 2.1 blocks, and 1.4 steals per game, Flagg quickly established himself as a cornerstone of Duke’s offense and the emotional leader on defense. With elite athleticism, relentless motor, and a mature understanding of the game that belied his age, Flagg became a fan favorite and drew comparisons to NBA stars like Kevin Garnett and Scottie Pippen. His performances in high-stakes games only elevated his profile, particularly in the NCAA Tournament, where he led Duke to the Elite Eight before falling in a hard-fought battle against a seasoned opponent. Many analysts assumed the next step was inevitable: declare for the NBA Draft, attend the Combine, and prepare to be selected within the top three picks. But Flagg had other ideas.

In his announcement, Flagg spoke not only of his family and coaching staff but also of “unfinished business,” a phrase that has resonated throughout the college basketball world. His competitive spirit and commitment to team success were evident throughout his freshman campaign, and his decision to return indicates a deep desire to bring a national championship back to Cameron Indoor Stadium. Duke’s last national title came in 2015 under Coach Mike Krzyzewski, and while Jon Scheyer has maintained the program’s elite status, Flagg’s return adds a dynamic that could very well bring another banner to Durham. For Scheyer, Flagg’s return is a monumental win on multiple fronts. Not only does he retain a generational talent, but he also sends a strong message to future recruits: Duke remains a program where top players can grow, develop, and compete for titles—without having to rush into the NBA. Flagg’s decision breaks from the norm in an era where top prospects are often encouraged to leave college after one year, especially with the allure of multi-million-dollar contracts and NBA stardom.

But Flagg’s reasoning, as revealed in interviews following his announcement, was rooted in something deeper. “This isn’t just about basketball. It’s about relationships, growth, and doing something special with people I care about,” he said. His family played a significant role in the decision, and so did the tight-knit community he found at Duke. Coach Scheyer and his staff created a culture where Flagg felt supported and challenged—where the NBA could wait, but the opportunity to cement a legacy was too precious to pass up. On a basketball level, the implications are massive. With Flagg returning, Duke instantly becomes a preseason favorite for the 2025 national title. He will likely be surrounded by a mix of seasoned upperclassmen and incoming freshmen, creating a roster with depth, experience, and star power. His leadership and presence on both ends of the floor will be invaluable, especially in crunch-time situations. Opposing coaches now have to game-plan for a defensive anchor who can guard all five positions, initiate the fast break, and stretch the floor offensively.

From a business perspective, Flagg’s return is also a significant case study in the evolving world of college athletics. With Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities now available, players like Flagg can command significant earnings while staying in school. Industry insiders estimate Flagg’s NIL valuation to be in the seven-figure range, making the decision to return not just emotionally fulfilling but also financially viable. Brands are eager to align with a player who exemplifies hard work, humility, and charisma—and who plays for one of the most marketable programs in college sports. For fans, Flagg’s return is a refreshing twist in the current basketball narrative. It harks back to an earlier era, when collegiate stars became household names over multiple seasons. In today’s rapid-cycle system, many fans barely get to know a player before they’re off to the pros. But Flagg’s decision creates anticipation and continuity, two things that have become increasingly rare. Duke fans now get another year to cheer for their phenom, and college basketball as a whole gains an extra season of one of its brightest talents.

There are also larger implications for the sport itself. Flagg’s choice could influence other elite prospects to rethink the one-and-done route. While every player’s journey is different, Flagg has created a model where personal development, team loyalty, and financial opportunity can coexist at the college level. His return could spark a mini-trend among top players who feel that another year in college could better prepare them for the physical and mental rigors of the NBA. And for those who love college basketball, that’s nothing but good news.

Critics may question whether Flagg’s decision puts undue pressure on him in his sophomore season. Expectations will be sky-high, and the scrutiny will be intense. Every performance will be dissected, and every off night will lead to questions about draft stock and decision-making. But if his freshman year taught us anything, it’s that Flagg thrives under pressure. He is not just physically gifted but mentally tough—a rare combination that bodes well for the season ahead.

Looking ahead, Duke’s schedule will be closely watched. Marquee matchups against rivals like North Carolina, Kentucky, and Michigan State will serve as national showcases for Flagg and the reloaded Blue Devils. The ACC will be a battleground, but with Flagg leading the charge, Duke will be favored in nearly every game. The tournament selection committee will undoubtedly view the Blue Devils as a top seed contender, especially if they navigate the non-conference slate successfully.

As the buzz continues to build, one thing is clear: Cooper Flagg’s decision to return to Duke has elevated the excitement surrounding the 2024-25 college basketball season. He represents the best of what college athletics can offer—talent, heart, and a desire to be part of something greater than individual success. In an age where instant gratification often overshadows long-term thinking, Flagg has chosen a path that values legacy over immediacy.

His return is not just a boost for Duke. It’s a win for college basketball, for fans, and for a new narrative—one where greatness is not rushed, but forged through time, effort, and purpose.

Duke Basketball is among the most active in a five-star sweepstakes

The Duke basketball coaches continue to seem like frontrunners for Jordan Smith Jr., but the junior’s recruitment is still in its early stages.

Jordan Smith Jr., a 6-foot-2, 200-pound five-star from Paul VI Catholic High School (Va.), has already visited Duke’s basketball program once, along with another 2026 guard, Brandon McCoy Jr. of St. John Bosco High School (Calif.), in early November.

And, according to Smith, who plays for a school that has produced four Duke basketball players this decade, Jon Scheyer and the Blue Devils are still among the recruiters he hears the most from. He earned an offer from Durham in July, making him one of the program’s first full-fledged targets for the 2026 cycle.

Smith told Dushawn London of 247Sports that he plans to ask coaches when it’s a good time to return for officials, but currently has no scheduled trips. “Arkansas, Kentucky, Louisville, Georgetown, Duke, and Syracuse are some of the schools recruiting me the hardest right now.”

London said that Kentucky is the only staff member who has made an in-home visit with Smith, whose “recruitment remains open and in its early stages.”

Jordan Smith Jr. is presently ranked fourth overall, first among shooting guards, and first in Virginia by the 247Sports 2026 Composite.

MATT GILES

Matt Giles is the editor and publisher of SI’s Duke Blue Devils, North Carolina Tar Heels, and NC State Wolfpack, giving him a valuable source for in-depth coverage of these legendary college basketball schools. Since joining SI in 2022, Matt has been committed to delivering in-depth analysis, breaking news, and unique material for all three teams. He discusses everything from game predictions and recaps to player biographies and recruitment information. Matt’s extensive understanding of these teams has made his work a must-read for fans and watchers of Duke, NC State, and UNC. As publisher, he determines editorial direction, ensuring that the most relevant and timely content reaches his target audience.

The top 30 recruits have posted a powerful message following their visit with Jon Scheyer, Duke

In the 2025 men’s basketball ultimate player rankings, the Duke Blue Devils had the third-best basketball recruiting class, and they may not be finished.

At present, all three of the incoming recruits of head coach Jon Scheyer are ranked within the top 25 of the final rankings.

Cameron Boozer, the two-time National High School Player of the Year, is Duke’s most highly recruited player. Boozer’s Columbus High (OH) team has won four consecutive state championships. He concluded his high school tenure as the number three overall player in the class and the nation’s top power forward (247 Sports).

Nikolas Khamenia, a 6-foot-8 small forward from Harvard Westlake (CA), is the second recruit to join Duke after Cameron Boozer. Khamenia is the third-ranked small forward and is ranked 15th in the final rankings (247 Sports).

Jon Scheyer is the head coach of the Duke Blue Devils.
Dale Zanine Imagery

Cameron Boozer’s identical sibling, Cayden, is Duke’s third recruit. He is the 23rd overall rated athlete and the No. 4 ranking point guard.

McDonald’s All-Americans comprised each of the three new competitors.

Sebastian Wilkins, a six-foot-eight forward, is regarded as one of the top 30 recruits in the Class of 2026 (On3) and is a four-star prospect. Nevertheless, Brandon Jenkins of 247Sports reports that he has not disregarded the possibility of a late reclassification.

“Wilkins has the option to reclassify into the 2025 recruiting class, which would allow him to provide some reinforcements for the upcoming year’s roster if he chooses to enter the college ranks a year early.”

Wilkins recently visited Duke, following which he expressed his enthusiasm.

“I had an excellent official visit to Duke University!” The subject of Wilkins’ writing was X.

Had a great official visit at Duke University!! pic.twitter.com/rRPBvoRkob

— Sebastian Wilkins (@Sebastian11wilk) May 7, 2025

Jenkins’ official Duke basketball visit post contained a plethora of photographs of himself in Blue Devils attire and with his family in the home locker room of Cameron Indoor Stadium.

The 29th overall athlete and the fourth ranked power forward in the 2026 recruiting class is the four-star recruit.