Cooper Flagg, the Duke Blue Devils’ freshman phenom, has been at the center of concerns over his probable return for a second season. Amid discussion over his NBA draft prospects, former Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski, also known as “Coach K,” has shared his thoughts on Flagg’s future.
Coach Mike Krzyzewski on Cooper Flagg’s Future: NBA or Another Year at Duke?
The top-ranked recruit in the 2024 class and National Player of the Year contender is likely to be the first overall choice in the 2025 NBA Draft, but he has not ruled out returning for his sophomore year.
Legendary Duke head coach K, now retired, offered his advice to Flagg as he made his decision.
On Friday’s episode of SiriusXM’s “College Sports Radio,” Krzyzewski talked about Flagg’s potential return to Duke for a second season.
“There’s a lot of factors in there, ” Krzyzewski said. “But in Cooper’s case, he should do whatever he wants. My thing is, just be smart. Be smart for you. You only get to do this once, and you’re only going to get to do it for a certain amount of time. You’re talking about generational wealth, really good generational wealth if you do it the right way.”
Is there really a chance Cooper Flagg could return for a second season at Duke?
“Just be smart…you only get to do this once and you’re only get to do it for a certain amount of time.”@DukeMBB
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— College Sports on SiriusXM (@SXMCollege) February 28, 2025
In a February interview with The Athletic, Flagg expressed a desire to return for another year, citing his enthusiasm for his freshman year.
Since the Duke star made that remark, analysts have weighed in, contrasting the financial perks of having the first draft choice to the potential earnings Flagg could make through NIL deals.
With the emergence of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) regulations, college athletes like Flagg now have the opportunity to earn significant revenue while still in school.
Flagg’s NIL worth is $4.8 million, the highest of any athlete in the sport, according to On3. He has endorsement agreements with big brands, including Gatorade, New Balance, and the NIL Store.
KEEP READING: Duke Legend Mike Krzyzewski Drops Bold Take on Cooper Flagg
Coach K has praised Flagg’s ability, describing him as “the best player in the country.” He understands the appeal of the NBA, but he also appreciates the unique experiences and growth chances that another year at Duke could bring Flagg.
As the season evolves, the basketball fraternity anticipates Flagg’s decision. Whether he selects the NBA or returns to Duke, his decision will have a big impact on his career trajectory and the future of college basketball.
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