BREAKING: Duke's Cooper Flagg Declares For the 2025 NBA Draft
- Joel Piton
- 2 minutes ago
- 2 min read
Just five days before the entry deadline, Duke Blue Devils phenom Cooper Flagg has officially declared for the 2025 NBA Draft, forgoing his remaining college eligibility. At just 18 years old, Flagg is expected to be one of the youngest players in the draft class, and one of the most coveted.
Flagg led Duke to a 35-4 season and a deep NCAA tournament run before falling to Houston in a nail-biting finish. His decision ends speculation of a sophomore return and confirms what fans and analysts alike have long anticipated: the top prospect in the nation is ready for the next level.
Flagg, who turned only turned 18 in December, was one of the youngest players in NCAA history. Despite his age, he wrapped up a dominant freshman season at Duke, averaging 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.4 steals, and 1.4 blocks per game. His all-around impact on both offense and defense made him a nightmare for opposing teams and a projected lock for the No. 1 overall pick. Standing at 6'9", Flagg possesses the ability to play both guard and forward, and his rare blend of size, skill, and defensive instincts makes him a dream prospect.
He announced his decision to declare for the draft via Instagram, joining teammates Kon Knueppel and Tyrese Proctor in leaving Durham. Though some speculated Flagg might return for another season—either to chase a national championship or avoid being drafted by a struggling franchise like the 14-win Utah Jazz—his decision signals full confidence in his readiness for the league. Should he go first overall, he'll become the sixth No. 1 pick in the history of Duke's program following in the footsteps of Paolo Banchero, Zion Williamson, Kyrie Irving, Elton Brand, and Art Heyman, as well as over a hundred other draftees.
While Flagg technically has until May to withdraw his name and return to Duke, history suggests he won’t—no player in this era considered the best in the nation ever has. And with a loaded 2025 draft class already shaping up to be one of the better ones in years, fans and franchises alike are hoping he stays the course. College basketball will undoubtedly feel his absence, but the NBA stands to gain a generational talent. The 2025 NBA Draft Lottery is set for May 12, when non-playoff teams will learn their draft positions and we'll see who has the best chance to select Flagg. The draft itself will be held over two days, June 25–26. Stay locked in with fansonlysportz.com for more updates as the Coop era take it's leap.
Catch you next time!
JP