Cooper Flagg is regarded as the No. 1 pick for the 2025 NBA draft. However, the freshman star is in the middle of a major career decision: continue his collegiate basketball at Duke or go pro in the NBA.
Although Flagg had stated that he would love to return to the Blue Devils next season, it remains to be seen if he would return, provided he is not enticed by the massive financial reward awaiting him in the NBA.
Therefore, here is what to know about the Duke freshman’s future prospects in basketball.
Will Cooper Flagg Return to Duke?
Flagg already confirmed that he wanted to return for another season with Duke next year. In an interview with The Athletic last week, he said, “S***, I want to come back next year.”
With the the influx of Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) money in the NCAA, it is possible that the freshman superstar would play another year in college basketball.
Flagg, who made NCAA history by becoming the first ACC player in the last 25 years to reach 500 points, 100 rebounds, and 30 assists in a single season, has an NIL deal that is valued at $4.8 million, per On3.
What Happens if Cooper Flagg Joins the NBA?
While Flagg would likely receive a massive NIL offer should he return for his sophomore season in college basketball, he could be delaying a second NBA contract that could reach $400 million in total value.
An Instagram post by Front Office Sports explained what the delay might mean for the 18-year-old.
“By staying another year in college, Flagg would delay his second NBA contract by a year. A rookie deal lasts four years, so if Flagg were to opt into the 2025 draft, he’d start his second contract by the 2029–2030 season. The rookie scale maximum can be worth 30% of a team’s salary cap, and assuming a 10% maximum cap increase (the 2024–2025 salary cap is $140.59 million), Flagg’s second contract could be worth as much as $398.5 million over five years — or nearly $80 million per year.”
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In addition, Flagg will likely sign more lucrative deals in the pro men’s basketball league throughout his career, as long as he lives up to the hype, including not risking serious injuries.
KEEP READING: Flagg Makes History, Reaches New ACC Mark in Points, Assists, Blocks
With the massive financial potential waiting for him in the NBA, it is easy to see why many do not believe he would return for a second season in college basketball despite declaring his desire to do so.
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