The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/duke">Duke Blue Devils</a> blew the Wake Forest Demon Deacons out of the water with a commanding 93-60 victory at Cameron Indoor Stadium. Despite the lopsided showdown between the ACC rivals, head coach Jon Scheyer sent Cooper Flagg and the rest of the players a strong message, ordering them not to rest on their laurels, as the real season is only just beginning. With March Madness approaching, the Blue Devils will only be content with one result during the NCAA tournament.



Duke holds a narrow lead over its closest pursuers, Clemson and Louisville. Both schools are 1.5 games behind the Blue Devils, as they have played two games left in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ncaa">NCAA</a> season, while Duke has just one matchup remaining.



Regardless, Scheyer, Flagg and Duke still control their own destiny. A win during <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball">college basketball’s</a> Rivalry Week against their archnemesis just south in Chapel Hill, the North Carolina Tar Heels, could be crucial for Duke’s morale heading into the most challenging time of the year: March Madness. The Tobacco Road rivalry game has been circled in red all season long, and it’s right in front of their noses now.



Ahead of such critical games, against the Tar Heels on the road, the ACC tournament and March Madness, Scheyer voiced a very clear and powerful reminder to <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cooper-flagg">Flagg</a> and the rest of the team.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250304_BUS_348682_Head-coach-Jon-Scheyer-of-the-Duke-Blue-Devils-embraces-Cooper-Flagg-2-during-the-second-half-again-1024x576_514f1734.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-348710" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/04183112/Head-coach-Jon-Scheyer-of-the-Duke-Blue-Devils-embraces-Cooper-Flagg-2-during-the-second-half-again-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/04183112/Head-coach-Jon-Scheyer-of-the-Duke-Blue-Devils-embraces-Cooper-Flagg-2-during-the-second-half-again-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/04183112/Head-coach-Jon-Scheyer-of-the-Duke-Blue-Devils-embraces-Cooper-Flagg-2-during-the-second-half-again-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/04183112/Head-coach-Jon-Scheyer-of-the-Duke-Blue-Devils-embraces-Cooper-Flagg-2-during-the-second-half-again-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/04183112/Head-coach-Jon-Scheyer-of-the-Duke-Blue-Devils-embraces-Cooper-Flagg-2-during-the-second-half-again-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/04183112/Head-coach-Jon-Scheyer-of-the-Duke-Blue-Devils-embraces-Cooper-Flagg-2-during-the-second-half-again-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/04183112/Head-coach-Jon-Scheyer-of-the-Duke-Blue-Devils-embraces-Cooper-Flagg-2-during-the-second-half-again-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/04183112/Head-coach-Jon-Scheyer-of-the-Duke-Blue-Devils-embraces-Cooper-Flagg-2-during-the-second-half-again.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Head coach Jon Scheyer of the Duke Blue Devils embraces Cooper Flagg #2 during the second half against the Wake Forest Demon Deacons at Cameron Indoor Stadium on March 03, 2025 in Durham, North Carolina.</figcaption></figure>



“It’s the best time of the year. It’s what you work the entire off season for,” Scheyer stated, via On3. “I think the thing about March too that I’ve learned is, you know, records don’t matter anymore. You’re not entitled to anything. Every game you play, somebody’s season has a potential to end. So, you’re playing and competing against teams that are very hungry.”


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Scheyer’s message is to be received loud and clear by the Blue Devils’ locker room, especially freshman superstar Cooper Flagg, who will participate in the most crucial month of the year for the first time in his career. In case his mind isn’t purely on the NCAA tournament, Scheyer made sure to remind him this is when it counts.



<h2>Come for the Duke, you best not miss</h2>



Closing out the regular season against North Carolina will be valuable for Duke, as the players will get a taste of facing a bitter rival before stepping into do-or-die situations during the win-or-go-home battles of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/march-madness">March Madness</a>. Scheyer is well aware of the hostile environments his team will step into, but instead of shying away or flying under the radar, the Blue Devils’ coach poked the bear.



“For us, like — that’s alright. Let’s beat people that really want to beat us, and they’re competitive,” Scheyer added. “That’s what every game the rest of the year is going to be. So for us, it’s a blessing to be in this position. It’s the best time of year for me.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250304_BUS_348682_Cooper-Flagg-1024x576_6c1c9251.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Cooper Flagg" class="wp-image-278552" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Cooper-Flagg-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Cooper-Flagg-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Cooper-Flagg-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Cooper-Flagg-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Cooper-Flagg-740x416.jpg 740w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Cooper-Flagg-490x275.jpg 490w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Cooper-Flagg-250x140.jpg 250w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Cooper-Flagg.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Cooper Flagg #2 of the Duke Blue Devils</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Scheyer’s message to Flagg</h2>



After an emotional Senior Night in Durham, it was freshman Flagg who stole the spotlight as fans chanted for him to stay another year at Duke. A return for his sophomore campaign seems improbable, and Scheyer made a sincere statement about the 18-year-old phenom that felt more like a farewell message.



“The talent speaks for itself. Love coaching his talent,” Scheyer said postgame, via Fox News. “But I love coaching the person. He’s all about the right stuff.”


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In what could’ve been his final home game in front of the ‘Cameron Crazies’, Flagg left his mark. The forward finished the night with 28 points, 8 rebounds, and 7 assists. 



“I mean, this is the best place in college basketball for sure,” Flagg stated. “I’ve loved every single minute of being here. I’ve loved everybody I’ve met, everybody I’ve been around for this whole year. It’s been an amazing year.”

Duke HC Jon Scheyer issues strong reminder to Cooper Flagg, rest of Blue Devils about March

NCAAB News: Duke HC Jon Scheyer makes something clear to Cooper Flagg, Blue Devils about March Madness - Bolavip US

Duke HC Jon Scheyer makes something clear to Cooper Flagg, Blue Devils ahead of March Madness

NCAAB News: Duke HC Jon Scheyer makes something clear to Cooper Flagg, Blue Devils about March Madness

miniaturas

The Duke Blue Devils have the best player in all of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball</a>. Cooper Flagg has been a nationwide sensation throughout the course of the entire season.



Notably, that’s only going to get bigger once he turns pro. He’s most likely going to be out of campus after his lone season at Durham, and he’s projected to be the No. 1 pick in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> Draft.



With that in mind, NBA analyst Bill Simmons shared his thoughts on any potential destination for him. When thinking about a potential duo with Victor Wembanyama, he claimed that it would be ‘the dream.’



<h2>San Antonio would be ‘the dream’ for Cooper Flagg</h2>



“San Antonio would be the dream of all the teams. It’s putting him next to Wemby,” Simmons said. “I can’t think of a better sidekick for Wemby.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250304_BUS_348468_GettyImages-2199905835-1-1024x576_0ad26d14.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Victor Wembanyama #1 of the San Antonio Spurs participates during the 2025 KIA Skills Challenge as part of the State Farm All-Star" class="wp-image-337812" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/16171308/GettyImages-2199905835-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/16171308/GettyImages-2199905835-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/16171308/GettyImages-2199905835-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/16171308/GettyImages-2199905835-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/16171308/GettyImages-2199905835-1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/16171308/GettyImages-2199905835-1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/16171308/GettyImages-2199905835-1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/16171308/GettyImages-2199905835-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Victor Wembanyama #1 of the San Antonio Spurs </figcaption></figure>



With Wembanyama’s season-ending injury, there’s a small, albeit existent, chance that he will end up teaming up with <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cooper-flagg">Flagg</a> if the Spurs manage to win the NBA Draft lottery.



<h2>Bill Simmons wants Cooper Flagg to land on a good team</h2>



“Well, I don’t want him to go to a bad team where we had this NBA infection that we’ve had for 50, 60 years where we take these great, talented players and just stick them in bad situations. Like what happened with LeBron in Cleveland the first couple years. He was on the worst possible team. And he turned out great for him, but you just lose a couple years,” Simmons said. “The best case scenario is what happened with (Larry) Bird.”


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Of course, landing on a good team is unlikely for the first-overall pick. Perhaps only the Philadelphia 76ers or the aforementioned Spurs might fit the bill. Otherwise, he’s likely going to a struggling and rebuilding franchise.

Bill Simmons has two words to describe potential Cooper Flagg-Victor Wembanyama duo

Bill Simmons has two words to describe potential Cooper Flagg-Victor Wembanyama duo - Bolavip US

Duke Blue Devils star Cooper Flagg is the talk of the nation, not limited to the town of Durham in North Carolina. Projected to be selected first overall in the 2025 NBA Draft, Flagg’s every move draws attention from both the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ncaa">NCAA</a> and the big-leagues. After the Blue Devils dismantled Wake Forest by a score of 93-60, Flagg issued an honest, yet suspenseful message about his future.



Senior Night was a success at Cameron Indoor Stadium, as the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/duke">Blue Devils</a> put on a memorable performance, routing the opposing Demon Deacons. A chapter comes to an end for the seniors in Durham, and many believe Flagg’s time at the school is drawing closer to its finale, too.



However, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cooper-flagg">Flagg</a> has previously mentioned his interest in staying in school for another year, though it’s unclear how much thought he gave to that statement or if it was simply a product of the heat of the moment.



Regardless, Flagg made the uncertainty about his future evident with a strong message after Duke’s home finale. After fans chanted for him to stay one more year, the 18-year-old <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball">college basketball</a> sensation voiced an honest response.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250304_BUS_348288_Cooper-Flagg-1-1024x576_390ed980.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Cooper Flagg" class="wp-image-278596" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Cooper-Flagg-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Cooper-Flagg-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Cooper-Flagg-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Cooper-Flagg-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Cooper-Flagg-1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Cooper-Flagg-1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Cooper-Flagg-1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Cooper-Flagg-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Cooper Flagg #2 of the Duke Blue Devils drives against Motiejus Krivas #14 of the Arizona Wildcats during the first half at McKale Center on November 22, 2024 in Tucson, Arizona.</figcaption></figure>



“I don’t know what the future holds,” Cooper Flagg stated postgame, per AP. “I mean, I’m living in the present right now, living in the moment, taking it day by day.”


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<h2>Stop and Stare</h2>



After the emotions ran colder through Flagg’s body, and the buzzer sounded in Duke’s final win at home in the NCAA season, the forward took a moment to absorb his time in Durham. 



“The feeling I had — the crowd, it was the loudest it’s been all year,” Flagg said, via ESPN. “I was back on defense, and I could almost feel that building shaking. This is the best place in college basketball, for sure. I’ve loved every single minute of being here. It’s been an amazing year.”

Cooper Flagg drops suspenseful comment about his future at Duke after potential final home game

NCAAB News: Cooper Flagg drops suspenseful comment on his future after Duke's blowout win over Wake Forest - Bolavip US

Cooper Flagg drops suspenseful comment about his future at Duke

NCAAB News: Cooper Flagg drops suspenseful comment on his future after Duke’s blowout win over Wake Forest

The Duke Blue Devils landed the top recruit in the nation when they got <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cooper-flagg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cooper Flagg</a>. He’s been the most talked about player in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball</a> for a year, and for very good reasons.



Flagg plays hard on both ends of the floor. He creates for others, scores from all three level, and has already held his own against <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> competition in a scrimmage vs. Team USA.



Add his youth, efficiency, and work ethic to the mix, and that’s why former NBA GM John Hollinger believes no one else has a shot at even sniffing the top pick in this year’s draft.



<h2>No one can take down Cooper Flagg’s top spot</h2>



“Can anyone push Cooper Flagg for No. 1? No,” Hollinger wrote. “OK, but what if … No. Seriously, just … no. Given his late-December birthday, Flagg is likely to be the youngest player in the 2025 draft and yet is almost certainly the best draft-eligible player right now. Among power-conference players, he has the best PER of any non-center and the best BPM of any player except Auburn’s Johni Broome, who is nearly half a decade older.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250301_BUS_345319_Cooper-Flagg-Duke-1024x576_6f24e33a.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-315502" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103805/Cooper-Flagg-Duke-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103805/Cooper-Flagg-Duke-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103805/Cooper-Flagg-Duke-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103805/Cooper-Flagg-Duke-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103805/Cooper-Flagg-Duke-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103805/Cooper-Flagg-Duke-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103805/Cooper-Flagg-Duke-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103805/Cooper-Flagg-Duke.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Cooper Flagg #2</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Flagg is as close to perfect as it is as a prospect</h2>



Of course, no player is perfect, and Flagg isn’t the exception to the rule. Even so, Hollinger doesn’t think there’s anything about his game that should scare off any team:



“A real nitpicker would say Flagg’s rates of rebounds and blocks are unexceptional. Not bad, just not remarkable in the way the rest of his line is. Some concerns remain about the quality of his deep shooting and the extent of his prowess as an on-ball shot-creator. But, c’mon … Flagg is by far the top prospect in this draft,” added Hollinger.


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Of course, there are no guarantees when it comes to the NBA Draft, and we’ve seen projected stars fail over and over. But barring a shocking turn of events, Flagg should be a perennial All-Star.

Can anyone overtake Cooper Flagg as the No. 1 pick? NBA Draft expert has a blunt answer

Can anyone overtake Cooper Flagg as the No. 1 pick? NBA Draft expert has a blunt answer - Bolavip US

The Duke Blue Devils have had their fair share of superstar prospects in their ranks. However, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cooper-flagg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cooper Flagg </a>must be one of the most unique in terms of skills and size.



The Maine native is a guard trapped in a big man’s body. His ability to pull up over every defender on the court translates to the pros, and he’s also a very good defensive player.



That’s why even the opposition has no choice but to tip their hats to him. That happened again when UCLA coach Mick Cronin used one big word to describe him: Generational.



<h2>Mick Cronin says Cooper Flagg is ‘generational’</h2>



“He’s the best player in the country,” Cronin said. “Cooper Flagg is generational… This kid’s got the makeup as far as his drive, the off the court, the mental, he’s a perennial All-Star in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA </a>for many years.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250301_BUS_345247_UCLA-head-coach-Mick-Cronin-1024x576_2f0e93bf.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="UCLA head coach Mick Cronin looks on during a game." class="wp-image-296182" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18164958/UCLA-head-coach-Mick-Cronin-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18164958/UCLA-head-coach-Mick-Cronin-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18164958/UCLA-head-coach-Mick-Cronin-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18164958/UCLA-head-coach-Mick-Cronin-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18164958/UCLA-head-coach-Mick-Cronin-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18164958/UCLA-head-coach-Mick-Cronin-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18164958/UCLA-head-coach-Mick-Cronin-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/18164958/UCLA-head-coach-Mick-Cronin.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>UCLA head coach Mick Cronin </figcaption></figure>



<h2>Cooper Flagg is the ultimate stat-sheet stuffer</h2>



Everybody raves about offense in today’s game, and rightfully so. Unfortunately, that makes plenty of players do not take pride in playing defense anymore, but that’s not the case with Flagg.


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So far, he’s averaged 19.4 points, 7.6 rebounds, 4.1 assists, 1.5 steals, 1.1 blocks, and 1.4 three-pointers per game on 49/37/82 shooting splits. He’s the most well-rounded prospect in the nation.

UCLA coach has one word to describe Duke’s Cooper Flagg

UCLA coach has one word to describe Duke's Cooper Flagg - Bolavip US

Throughout the course of history, the Duke Blue Devils have had a myriad of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a>-caliber talent. This is the case again this season, with<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cooper-flagg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Cooper Flagg</a> leading the way.



Flagg recently admitted that he would love to return to campus next season. However, as the projected first-overall pick, the chances of that happening seem to be slim at best.



That’s why Illinois coach Brad Underwood wants the NCAA to make the most of the NIL era to figure out a way to make sure Flagg doesn’t take his talents to the pros next season.



<h2>Illinois coach wants the NCAA to find a way to keep Cooper Flagg in college</h2>



“I hope he stays in school. I mean, if I’m the NCAA or the ACC, I’m figuring out an NIL deal to keep that dude in school, because he’s everything that’s right about our game,” Underwood said. “Somebody threw out some story about it. I hope he stays. Man, he’d be great. He could probably make more here than he could in the NBA. He’s also got really good people around him, and that helps.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250225_BUS_343303_cooper-flagg-2-1024x576_2dfe0930.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="cooper flagg" class="wp-image-279653" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/cooper-flagg-2-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/cooper-flagg-2-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/cooper-flagg-2-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/cooper-flagg-2-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/cooper-flagg-2-740x416.jpg 740w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/cooper-flagg-2-490x275.jpg 490w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/cooper-flagg-2-250x140.jpg 250w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/cooper-flagg-2.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Cooper Flagg #2 of the Duke Blue Devils</figcaption></figure>



The fact that Coach Underwood said this right after Flagg and the Blue Devils crushed past his team speaks volumes about his potential impact on the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball</a> game.


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Even so, as much as everybody — himself included — would love that to happen, the financial incentives of making the jump to the pros are just too big to overlook here.

NCAAB News: Coach makes pitch to keep Cooper Flagg in college

NCAAB News: Coach makes pitch to keep Cooper Flagg in college - Bolavip US

Duke star <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cooper-flagg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cooper Flagg</a> recently made the news by admitting that he would love to return to campus. Then again, that would be one of the most shocking turns of events in recent history.



Flagg is projected to be the first player taken off the board in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> Draft. As such, he may have already chosen his preferred destination to begin his career in the pros.



As reported by Ishaan Bhattacharya of Fadeaway World and Wemby Central on X, it seems like Flagg would be more than glad to team up with a fellow first-overall pick: Victor Wembanyama.



<h2>Cooper Flagg wants to team up with Victor Wembanyama</h2>



“ESPN BET recently posted an image of Flagg alongside Victor Wembanyama with the caption, ‘Imagine this duo in San Antonio.’ Fans noticed that Flagg had liked the post, leading to excitement over Flagg potentially joining the San Antonio Spurs,” wrote Bhattacharya.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="711" height="1024" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250224_BUS_343302_Gkgtn-zWYAE1K21-711x1024_af61a77f.webp&amp;width=711&amp;height=1024" alt="" class="wp-image-343286" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/24134757/Gkgtn-zWYAE1K21-711x1024.jpg 711w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/24134757/Gkgtn-zWYAE1K21-208x300.jpg 208w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/24134757/Gkgtn-zWYAE1K21-768x1106.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/24134757/Gkgtn-zWYAE1K21-1067x1536.jpg 1067w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/02/24134757/Gkgtn-zWYAE1K21.jpg 1170w" sizes="(max-width: 711px) 100vw, 711px"></figure><figcaption>Flagg liked the picture (Via Wemby Central)</figcaption></figure>



Of course, he won’t have any say in this. The San Antonio Spurs would have to win the NBA Draft Lottery or trade up to No. 1 or maybe No. 2 to have a chance to get him.


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Nevertheless, this is a mouth-watering prospect for Spurs fans nonetheless, and with Wembanyama out for the remainder of the season, they might have a slim chance of getting the No. 1 pick.

NCAAB News: Cooper Flagg may have hinted which NBA team he’d like to play for

NCAAB News: Cooper Flagg may have hinted which NBA team he'd like to play for - Bolavip US

Throughout the course of history, the Duke Blue Devils have had nothing but the creme of the crop of college recruits. That’s why it’s not easy to stand out from the rest of the pack.



Even so, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cooper-flagg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cooper Flagg</a> is most definitely a unique talent. It’s not only that he can fill up the stat sheet and play hard on both ends of the floor. It’s not even his unique combination of size and shooting.



Flagg, according to coach Jon Scheyer, is different from most <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball</a> players because he doesn’t seem to care about his numbers. Instead, he just wants to get the job done.



<h2>Jon Scheyer praises Cooper Flagg’s mature approach</h2>



“Cooper literally does not care about statistics, he cares about winning; That’s contagious,” Scheyer said.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="631" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250221_BUS_340991_jonscheyerjpg_242310155-1024x631_1b2f39dc.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=631" alt="" class="wp-image-216615" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/08/jonscheyerjpg_242310155-1024x631.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/08/jonscheyerjpg_242310155-300x185.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/08/jonscheyerjpg_242310155-768x474.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/08/jonscheyerjpg_242310155.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Jon Scheyer head coach of Duke</figcaption></figure>



Flagg knows he’s the leader and the best player on the team. He also knows all eyes are on him as the projected first-overall pick in the 2025 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> Draft. However, that’s not why he’s there.


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He’s led by example in his first — and most likely only — season at Durham. In an era when players only care about their brands and social media, it’s refreshing to see someone actually respecting the game.

NCAAB News: Duke coach explains why Cooper Flagg is unique, and it’s not his play

NCAAB News: Duke coach explains why Cooper Flagg is unique, and it's not his play - Bolavip US

Cooper Flagg is, by most standards, the best player in all of college basketball. The Duke Blue Devils have been almost impossible to beat, and his talent and physical traits are just mesmerizing.



So far, he’s averaged 19.7 points, 7.7 rebounds, 4.0 assists, 1.6 steals, and 1.2 blocks per game on almost 37% from beyond the arc. That’s why he’s projected to be the first-overall pick in the 2025 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> Draft.



Nevertheless, Illinois coach Brad Underwood believes he could end up being a legend if he decided to return to college, just like Caitlin Clark was forced to do at Iowa because of the WNBA Draft’s eligibility rules.



<h2>College coach says Cooper Flagg could be the Caitlin Clark of male college basketball</h2>



“If he stayed in school, he would be the face of college basketball and elevate basketball to the levels Caitlin Clark did on the female side” Underwood said.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250221_BUS_340982_Cooper-Flagg-1024x576_16b36f13.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Cooper Flagg" class="wp-image-278552" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Cooper-Flagg-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Cooper-Flagg-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Cooper-Flagg-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Cooper-Flagg-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Cooper-Flagg-740x416.jpg 740w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Cooper-Flagg-490x275.jpg 490w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Cooper-Flagg-250x140.jpg 250w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Cooper-Flagg.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Cooper Flagg #2 of the Duke Blue Devils</figcaption></figure>



This speaks volumes about Clark’s massive impact on the game. It might be the first time someone has claimed that a male hooper could end up being the next big thing by comparing him to his female counterpart.


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Even so, regardless of what Cooper said about wanting to be back next season, the chances of him forgoing the NBA Draft and staying for another year seem quite slim.

NCAAB News: Coach makes bold Caitlin Clark-Cooper Flagg comparison

NCAAB News: Coach makes bold Caitlin Clark-Cooper Flagg comparison - Bolavip US

We don’t see many high-ranked prospects return to college after their freshman years. The one-and-done approach is usually the way to go for players who seem <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a>-bound.



However, even though he’s projected to be the first-overall pick, Duke star <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cooper-flagg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cooper Flagg </a>recently told The Athletic that he would love to return to college next year.



Of course, that doesn’t necessarily mean he’ll do it, especially being the top dog in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball </a>right now. But if he were to do so, Aaditya Krishnamurthy of Fadeaway World reports that he would be delaying a potential $400 million payout.



<h2>Staying in college could delay Cooper Flagg’s massive payday</h2>



“A standard NBA rookie deal lasts four years, with the players then having the choice to become restricted free agents. Should Cooper Flagg declare himself for the 2025 NBA Draft, his second contract will start from the 2029-30 NBA season,” wrote Krishnamurthy. “And if Flagg lives up to the hype, he could earn a huge contract extension.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250220_BUS_340983_Cooper-Flagg-Duke-1024x576_0f54fe01.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-315502" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103805/Cooper-Flagg-Duke-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103805/Cooper-Flagg-Duke-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103805/Cooper-Flagg-Duke-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103805/Cooper-Flagg-Duke-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103805/Cooper-Flagg-Duke-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103805/Cooper-Flagg-Duke-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103805/Cooper-Flagg-Duke-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103805/Cooper-Flagg-Duke.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Cooper Flagg #2</figcaption></figure>



He then went on to detail the potential financial implications that could come with him getting a maximum contract extension. That means he could be pulling the brakes on a $400 million payday:



“The current NBA rules allow for players to sign a rookie scale extension, with the maximum going up to 30% of a team’s salary cap. According to Front Office Sports’ calculations, taking into consideration the annual 10% increase in the NBA’s salary cap, Flagg’s maximum rookie scale extension could be worth $398.5 million over five years, paying him about $80 million a season,” he added.


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Of course, there are a lot of ‘ifs.’ First, Flagg would have to return to college, which seems incredibly unlikely. Then, he would have to play well enough and stay healthy to get that kind of deal.

NCAAB News: Cooper Flagg could give up $400 million to stay at Duke

NCAAB News: Cooper Flagg could give up $400 million to stay at Duke - Bolavip US

The Cooper Flagg show has been must-watch television this season. Even non-<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball </a>fans know everything about the Maine native and future NBA star.



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cooper-flagg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Flagg</a> answered the call on Monday night against the Virginia Cavaliers, helping his team hold down one of the best offensive teams in the conference with another strong outing.



The forward finished the game with 17 points, 14 boards, a couple of assists, two steals, and two blocks. That was enough to keep writing even more history with the Blue Devils.



<h2>Cooper Flagg makes more history at Duke</h2>



“Flagg has now achieved something no ACC player has this century – 500 points, 100 assists, and 30 blocks in a single season,” reported Matthew Brzezinski of Hardwood Heroics.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250219_BUS_339142_Cooper-Flagg-Duke-1024x576_c42be9c0.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-315502" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103805/Cooper-Flagg-Duke-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103805/Cooper-Flagg-Duke-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103805/Cooper-Flagg-Duke-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103805/Cooper-Flagg-Duke-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103805/Cooper-Flagg-Duke-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103805/Cooper-Flagg-Duke-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103805/Cooper-Flagg-Duke-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103805/Cooper-Flagg-Duke.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Cooper Flagg #2</figcaption></figure>



The Blue Devils have bounced back in a big way after their heartbreaking loss to the Clemson Tigers, logging easy wins against lesser competition by an average of 25 points.


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All eyes will be set on Flagg as the team enters the most crucial stretch of the season. And with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> just around the corner, the fans better enjoy it while it lasts.

NCAAB News: Cooper Flagg breaks 25-year-old record

NCAAB News: Cooper Flagg breaks 25-year-old record - Bolavip US

The Duke Blue Devils are one of the teams to beat in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball</a>. That’s usually the case, and that hasn’t changed one bit during the 2024-25 campaign either.



According to the AP rankings, they’re currently the third-best team in the nation. As such, they’re more than expected to be a part of the upcoming NCAA Tournament.



With that in mind, renowned NCAA analyst John Fanta shared his thoughts on March Madness, raving about the Blue Devils and how <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cooper-flagg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cooper Flagg</a> will be the most talked-about player in the nation. 



<h2>John Fanta says Cooper Flagg makes Duke a must-watch team</h2>



“This group is so driven and fundamentally sound,” Fanta said. “I think it will be fascinating to continue to follow their road map to a title.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="631" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250219_BUS_339171_jonscheyerjpg_242310155-1024x631_2ac38891.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=631" alt="" class="wp-image-216615" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/08/jonscheyerjpg_242310155-1024x631.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/08/jonscheyerjpg_242310155-300x185.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/08/jonscheyerjpg_242310155-768x474.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/08/jonscheyerjpg_242310155.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Jon Scheyer head coach of Duke</figcaption></figure>



The Blue Devils have been a solid team on both ends of the floor this season. Nevertheless, Fanta believes that Cooper Flagg’s presence alone will be enough to draw millions of eyeballs:



“Cooper Flagg is going to generate the highest amount of buzz, television ratings-wise, eyeballs-wise,” Fanta said. “People want to see if the No. 1 pick in the draft with this young Duke head coach with the brand that is Duke, a brand that casual fans love to hate, if they can rise above all and get the championship.“


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Of course, first, Jon Scheyer’s team needs to make sure to take care of business and go far in the tournament in the first place. But judging by the way they’re playing, it’s safe to assume that they will be there.

NCAAB News: Analyst reveals why Duke is the nation’s must-watch team right now

NCAAB News: Analyst reveals why Duke is the nation's must-watch team right now - Bolavip US

The Philadelphia 76ers know one thing or two about picking near the top of the board. At one point, they had two top-three picks on the team in Ben Simmons and Joel Embiid.



So, with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> Draft inching closer and an exciting season of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball</a> going through its key stretch, everybody has their eyes set on Duke and Rutgers, even NBA stars.



In the latest edition of his podcast, Sixers star Paul George talked about <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cooper-flagg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cooper Flagg</a> and Ace Bailey and their potential, and he claimed that he would take Bailey if he had the first-overall selection.



<h2>Paul George says Ace Bailey should be the first-overall pick</h2>



“If I had to pick, I would probably go Ace Bailey. I think Ace Bailey is a little bit more raw talent with still a ton of upside. I think Cooper Flagg, not to say he has no upside, he has amazing upside as well but I think Ace Bailey has a little bit more upside to him. I think he can scratch a little bit more off of his surface than Cooper Flagg can,” George said.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250219_BUS_339149_paul-george-5-1024x576_b627983c.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-304286" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/31164217/paul-george-5-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/31164217/paul-george-5-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/31164217/paul-george-5-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/31164217/paul-george-5-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/31164217/paul-george-5-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/31164217/paul-george-5-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/31164217/paul-george-5-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/31164217/paul-george-5.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Paul George </figcaption></figure>



Of course, to each his own, and this seems to be a scenario in which a team couldn’t go wrong either way. They both project to be big-time players at the next level.


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Who knows? With the Sixers struggling so mightily and potentially being ready to call it quits this season, maybe one of these two young stars will team up with George in Philadelphia.

NCAAB News: Paul George chooses Ace Bailey over Cooper Flagg

NCAAB News: Paul George chooses Ace Bailey over Cooper Flagg - Bolavip US

Not so long ago,<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> college basketball </a>players stayed on campus for years. They learned the fundamentals of the game, worked on their craft, and got smarter and stronger before turning pro.



Now, that’s the opposite. They all want to be one-and-done, and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA </a>teams rarely take a look at older prospects because they might be closer to being finished products.



Nevertheless, with the NIL era allowing players to make money, some might choose to stay put for a little longer. As unlikely as that might sound, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cooper-flagg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cooper Flagg </a>recently claimed he wished he could stay there for longer.



<h2>Cooper Flagg says he wants to stay at Duke</h2>



“S—,” Cooper told The Athletic, “I want to come back next year.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250218_BUS_339143_Cooper-Flagg-1024x576_548b2f8c.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-315501" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103758/Cooper-Flagg-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103758/Cooper-Flagg-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103758/Cooper-Flagg-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103758/Cooper-Flagg-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103758/Cooper-Flagg-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103758/Cooper-Flagg-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103758/Cooper-Flagg-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103758/Cooper-Flagg.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Cooper Flagg #2 of the Duke Blue Devils</figcaption></figure>



Needless to say, the chances of Flagg running it back with the Duke Blue Devils seem pretty close to zero, even if he doesn’t like the teams with the best chance to get him in the NBA Draft.


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He’s been penciled in as the first-overall pick for the past couple of years. Barring a major turn of events, he’s not going to be back, especially if he leads the team to a National Title.

NCAAB News: Cooper Flagg hints at staying in college

NCAAB News: Cooper Flagg hints at staying in college - Bolavip US

You don’t have to be a <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball</a> savant to have heard about<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cooper-flagg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Cooper Flagg. </a>The Duke Blue Devils star has been the most talked-about player in the nation this season.



As such, he’s unsurprisingly leading the race to be named Playe of the Year. Nevertheless, renowned NCAA analyst Rob Dauster believes that Purdue star Braden Smith also deserves to be in that conversation.



The Boilermakers are 19-5 for the season, and Dauster believes it all has to do with Smith’s stellar playmaking. He even thinks he’s the best point guard in the nation right now. 



<h2>Analyst says Braden Smith is as impactful as Cooper Flagg</h2>



“Purdue is the No. 7 team in the country, guys. They beat USC 90-72. It was a little bit of a blowout,” Dauster said. “There’s really not that much exciting to talk about from the actual game beyond the fact that Braden Smith looks like the best point guard in America and is, like, sneakily putting himself in a conversation for National Player of the Year.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250214_BUS_333884_Cooper-Flagg-1-1024x576_8fabe6f5.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-287061" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/05151100/Cooper-Flagg-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/05151100/Cooper-Flagg-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/05151100/Cooper-Flagg-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/05151100/Cooper-Flagg-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/05151100/Cooper-Flagg-1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/05151100/Cooper-Flagg-1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/05151100/Cooper-Flagg-1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/05151100/Cooper-Flagg-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Duke Blue Devils guard Cooper Flagg (2) </figcaption></figure>



Of course, he admitted that he’s still not on Flagg’s level. Nevertheless, he wouldn’t mind putting him right behind him and Auburn’s Johni Broome right now:



“I still think that he’s third on that list, but it’s not third by a huge gap,” Dauster said. “He’s been as impactful as Cooper Flagg. Over the last six weeks, he’s been as impactful as Cooper Flagg and Johni Broome. I have no problem saying that.“


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Smith has been on a tear this season. He’s been his team’s second-leading scorer and rebounder at 16.1 points and 4.6 rebounds per game, all while handing out a team-best 8.8 dimes per contest.

NCAAB News: Analyst makes case for player to beat Cooper Flagg in Player of the Year race

NCAAB News: Analyst makes case for player to beat Cooper Flagg in Player of the Year race - Bolavip US

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