<p>The <strong>Duke Blue Devils’ </strong>season ended in heartbreak. They had a chance to take down the Houston Cougars in the Final Four to advance to the championship game, but <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cooper-flagg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cooper Flagg</a> missed a key shot down the stretch.</p>



<p>Even so, there’s nothing to hold against the projected first<strong> overall pick in the 2025 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA </a>Draft.</strong> He was the best player in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball </a>this season, and bigger things await now.</p>



<p>The <strong>Flagg frenzy</strong> has been so out of control lately that even his mother, <strong>Kelly Flagg</strong>, has profited from it. She just took to Instagram to announce her partnership with Dr. Scholl’s.</p>



<h2>Cooper Flagg’s mom Kelly gets endorsement deal</h2>



<p><strong><em>“I’m excited to be partnering with Dr. Scholl’s® because as a mom of three boys who are all involved in sports, I know just how much energy and effort it takes to keep up,”</em></strong> wrote Kelly Flagg. <em>“Moms are the unseen force behind every athlete – whether we’re cheering from the sidelines, hustling between games, or making sure they’re fueled and ready to go. We’re putting in just as many miles as they are! Dr. Scholl’s® insoles are that little boost that helps us keep moving, no matter what the day throws at us.”</em></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/04123717/Cooper-Flagg-2-of-the-Duke-Blue-Devils-dribbles-the-ball-against-the-Illinois-Fighting-Illini-durin-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="Cooper Flagg #2 of the Duke Blue Devils dribbles the ball against the Illinois Fighting Illini during the first half of the SentinelOne Classic at Madison Square Garden on February 22, 2025 in New York City." class="wp-image-348305" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Cooper Flagg #2 of the Duke Blue Devils</figcaption></figure>



<p>Of course, besides being a mother, Kelly Flagg<strong> was an athlete herself. </strong>She played at the University of Maine, and she was even a part of the team that won its first ever NCAA Tournament game back in 1999.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="bolavip.com/en/college-basketball/highest-paid-college-basketball-head-coaches" image="" excerpt="" title="" publication_id=""></div>


<p>With all the money that’s coming her son’s way, it’s safe to say that she won’t have to work another day in her life. Even so, <strong>it never hurts to have some more cash to spare.</strong></p>


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="67f6feb90c8fd1e7fdf26e4f" data-title="Will Cooper Flagg be a star in the NBA?" data-options="2"></div>

NCAAB News: Even Cooper Flagg's mom got an endorsement deal now

NCAAB News: Even Cooper Flagg's mom got an endorsement deal now - Bolavip US

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<p>With the<strong> Duke Blue Devils </strong>eliminated from championship contention, it seems like we’ve already seen the last of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cooper-flagg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cooper Flagg</a> in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball.</a> He claimed that he would love to return, but that’s not likely to happen.</p>



<p>Flagg is touted as the next big thing in basketball. He’s projected to be the first overall pick in the<strong> 2025 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> Draft,</strong> and he’s not going to forgo that opportunity to stay in college another season.</p>



<p>However, Bobby Burack of Outkick is worried about his future in the league. In his latest column, he argued that he could face <strong>the same racial backlash Caitlin Clark faced in the WNBA.</strong></p>



<h2>Cooper Flagg could face racial backlash in the NBA</h2>



<p>“L<em>ike Clark, Flagg projects to be a transcendent star at the next level. Comparisons to Jokic, Doncic, or Nowitzki fall apart when you consider the latter three were not born in America. <strong>American sports fans are drawn to American-born athletes. They always have been. Jokic has been the best player in the NBA for at least five seasons and isn’t even among the five biggest attractions in the leagu</strong>e,” </em>wrote Burack.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/04123717/Cooper-Flagg-2-of-the-Duke-Blue-Devils-dribbles-the-ball-against-the-Illinois-Fighting-Illini-durin-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="Cooper Flagg #2 of the Duke Blue Devils " class="wp-image-348305" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Cooper Flagg #2 of the Duke Blue Devils</figcaption></figure>



<p>This makes sense to a degree, but it’s not like Flagg would be the first white superstar in the league. He wouldn’t even be the <strong>first white and American perennial All-Star.</strong></p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="bolavip.com/en/college-basketball/highest-paid-college-basketball-head-coaches" image="" excerpt="" title="" publication_id=""></div>


<p>At the end of the day, game recognizes game. Flagg’s talent is only topped by his work ethic, and his colleagues can respect that. Hopefully, <strong>that will also be the case with Clark in her second season in the league.</strong></p>


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="67f425250c8fd1e7fdf26d5a" data-title="Will race play a factor in the perception of Cooper Flagg?" data-options="2"></div>

Analyst shares major racial concern about Cooper Flagg and the NBA

Analyst shares major racial concern about Cooper Flagg and the NBA - Bolavip US

<p>Many times, when all eyes are focused on a player or a team, if the outcome isn’t what was expected, it can turn out to be counterproductive. This is what happened last night with <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cooper-flagg">Cooper Flagg</a></strong>, who, after missing the shot that could have given the <strong>Duke Blue Devils</strong> a victory over the <strong>Houston Cougars</strong>, couldn’t hide his frustration with the result.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball/top-seeds-making-history-reaching-the-final-four-and-winning-the-ncaa-tournament" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20250310_BUS_352416_March-Madness-8.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="The top-seeded teams have made history by reaching the NCAA finals. With unexpected victories and epic moments, some seasons and teams have left a mark on college sports and March Madness.
" title="Top seeds making history: Reaching the final four and winning the NCAA tournament" publication_id="BUS#/college-basketball/top-seeds-making-history-reaching-the-final-four-and-winning-the-ncaa-tournament"></div>


<p>Flagg once again delivered a stellar performance for his team. Consistently leading in the stats, the star of Jon Scheyer’s squad could have sealed the Duke Blue Devils’ spot in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball">NCAA</a> Tournament final, but the final play didn’t go as expected, and it was the Cougars who will face the Gators to decide the new champion.</p>



<p>Once the game ended, the Newport native spoke in the press conference about the key play that could have changed the final outcome for the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/duke">Blue Devils</a> in this thrilling March Madness.</p>



<p><em>“It’s the play Coach drew up,” </em>Flagg said after the game. <strong><em>“Took it into the paint. Thought I got my feet set, rose up. Left it short, obviously. A shot I’m willing to live with in the scenario.”</em></strong></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/06102223/Cooper-Flagg-11-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="Cooper Flagg" class="wp-image-371018" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>J’Wan Roberts #13 of the Houston Cougars defends the shot attempt of Cooper Flagg #2 of the Duke Blue Devils during the second half in the Final Four game of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at the Alamodome on April 05, 2025 in San Antonio, Texas. </figcaption></figure>



<h2>Jon Scheyer’s strong self-criticism</h2>



<p>In losses, there are often those who take responsibility for the game’s outcome. In this case, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball/duke-hc-jon-scheyer-offers-strong-5-word-self-criticism-after-final-four-loss-to-houston">Duke coach Jon Scheyer offered a strong 5-word self-criticism</a> after the Final Four loss to Houston.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball/march-madness-shockers-the-top-15-unforgettable-upsets-in-ncaa-history" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20250307_BUS_350263_Butler-vs.-Duke.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="March Madness has given us some of the wildest surprises in NCAA history. From 16-seeds toppling giants to last-second heartbreaks, these unforgettable upsets will keep you on the edge of your seat!
" title="March Madness shockers: The top 15 unforgettable upsets in NCAA history" publication_id="BUS#/college-basketball/march-madness-shockers-the-top-15-unforgettable-upsets-in-ncaa-history"></div>


<p>The consistent play of his team couldn’t be sustained, and consecutive turnovers gave the Cougars the opportunity to take the lead toward the end of the game. This is where Scheyer realized he didn’t reach his players in the right way to close out the game.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball/the-greatest-march-madness-coaches-of-all-time-who-built-the-best-dynasties" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20250310_BUS_352132_John-Wooden-March-Madness-1.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="From Coach K’s Duke legacy to Wooden&apos;s UCLA dynasty, these legends didn’t just win titles—they shaped the very fabric of college basketball and March Madness, creating dynasties that still echo today.
" title="The greatest March Madness coaches of all time: Who built the best dynasties?" publication_id="BUS#/college-basketball/the-greatest-march-madness-coaches-of-all-time-who-built-the-best-dynasties"></div>


<p><strong><em>“I didn’t help them enough,”</em></strong> the head coach said. After the painful defeat, Duke was left without the chance to reach the March Madness final, something that many had taken for granted at the start of the season.</p>


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="67f291010c8fd1e7fdf26cff" data-title="How would you assess Duke&apos;s season?" data-options="4"></div>

Cooper Flagg makes strong statement on missing Duke's final shot vs Houston

The greatest March Madness coaches of all time: Who built the best dynasties?

Top seeds making history: Reaching the final four and winning the NCAA tournament

Cooper Flagg makes strong statement on missing Duke's final shot vs Houston - Bolavip US

<p>The dream of becoming the new <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball">NCAA</a></strong> champions finally came to an end for the <strong>Duke Blue Devils</strong>. The defeat at the hands of the <strong>Houston Cougars</strong> left <strong>Jon Scheyer</strong>‘s squad empty-handed, and it was the head coach himself who took full responsibility after the game.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball/top-seeds-making-history-reaching-the-final-four-and-winning-the-ncaa-tournament" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20250310_BUS_352416_March-Madness-8.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="The top-seeded teams have made history by reaching the NCAA finals. With unexpected victories and epic moments, some seasons and teams have left a mark on college sports and March Madness.
" title="Top seeds making history: Reaching the final four and winning the NCAA tournament" publication_id="BUS#/college-basketball/top-seeds-making-history-reaching-the-final-four-and-winning-the-ncaa-tournament"></div>


<p>Perhaps the final score of 70-67 doesn’t fully reflect the flow of the game, where <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cooper-flagg">Cooper Flagg</a>‘s team was slightly better than their opponents in several stretches. However, key mistakes from Duke led to a 25-9 run for the Cougars, who took full advantage of the situation.</p>



<p>Scheyer didn’t hide his frustration after his team’s elimination from this March Madness and, in a press conversation, delivered a strong five-word self-criticism: <strong><em>“I didn’t help them enough,”</em></strong> the head coach said.</p>



<p>Could more have been contributed from the sideline in moments of struggle? Perhaps. In any case, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/duke">Duke</a> showed it was up to the task despite the defeat, handling the situation with professionalism and already thinking about what’s next.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/06091938/Duke-Blue-Devils-1-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="Duke Blue Devils" class="wp-image-370998" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Head coach Jon Scheyer of the Duke Blue Devils talks with the team against the Houston Cougars during the second half in the Final Four game of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at the Alamodome on April 05, 2025 in San Antonio, Texas.</figcaption></figure>



<p><strong><em>“This is part of it. You’ve got handle the wins, and you’ve got to handle the losses too,”</em></strong> Jon Scheyer also added.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball/the-greatest-march-madness-coaches-of-all-time-who-built-the-best-dynasties" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20250310_BUS_352132_John-Wooden-March-Madness-1.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="From Coach K’s Duke legacy to Wooden&apos;s UCLA dynasty, these legends didn’t just win titles—they shaped the very fabric of college basketball and March Madness, creating dynasties that still echo today.
" title="The greatest March Madness coaches of all time: Who built the best dynasties?" publication_id="BUS#/college-basketball/the-greatest-march-madness-coaches-of-all-time-who-built-the-best-dynasties"></div>


<h2>The disappointment with the final result</h2>



<p>Losses are always painful, even more so when the outcome was favorable for much of the game. This was one of the main reasons why coach Jon Scheyer ended up disappointed with how the game against the Cougars unfolded.</p>



<p><em>“It’s been a special ride that ended in a heartbreaking way. Frankly, the game, we did what we wanted to do. I thought our guys followed the game plan, controlled the game, we had the lead for 35 minutes,”</em> Scheyer said to the press. <strong><em>“It’s heartbreaking. It’s incredibly disappointing. There’s a lot of pain that comes with this.</em></strong></p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball/march-madness-2025-ranking-all-68-teams-in-the-ncaa-tournament" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20250311_BUS_352999_March-Madness-1-4.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="March Madness 2025 is here: 68 teams, fierce rivalries, and future legends battling for glory in the most thrilling NCAA college basketball tournament.
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<p><em>“That’s what the tournament is all about. You’re an inch away from the national championship game,” </em>he finally concluded.</p>


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="67f285400c8fd1e7fdf26cfc" data-title="Will the Blue Devils be contenders next season?" data-options="3"></div>

Duke HC Jon Scheyer offers strong 5-word self-criticism after Final Four loss to Houston

March Madness 2025: Ranking all 68 teams in the NCAA tournament

Duke HC Jon Scheyer offers strong 5-word self-criticism after Final Four loss to Houston - Bolavip US

<p>We’re living in the <strong>era of unicorns,</strong> at least with what pertains to basketball. It’s all about positionless basketball and big players who can put the ball on the floor and knock down threes.</p>



<p>That’s why <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cooper-flagg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cooper Flagg</a> is such a<strong> unique and promising prospect. </strong>He’s a forward trapped in the body of a big man, much like elite scorers with a long wingspan like Kevin Durant.</p>



<p>Over the past year, he’s drawn comparisons to Andrei Kirilenko and Kevin Garnett. Nevertheless, an unnamed Western Conference executive believes he’s more similar to<strong> Jayson Tatum.</strong></p>



<h2>Executive compares Cooper Flagg to Jayson Tatum</h2>



<p><em><strong>“Both of them at Duke presented really positively as guys that were going to have a couple of off-ramps to be super successful,”</strong></em> the exec told ESPN. <em>“We’re seeing that with Flagg recently, he’s had poor shooting nights like against [Alabama in the Elite Eight], and still was super impactful [toward] winning. … People questioned both of their shots, which turned out to be a silly concern, probably. They both have really good feel offensively in a way that’s just uncommon for their size and usage.”</em></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103805/Cooper-Flagg-Duke-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-315502" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Cooper Flagg #2</figcaption></figure>



<p>Of course, they’re both from the same program, so they should be very proud of this comp. Then again, as great a player as Tatum is,<strong> he’s not the same type of player Flagg is.</strong></p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball/highest-paid-college-basketball-head-coaches" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20241206_BUS_287583_Bill-Self-1.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="From Bill Self to John Calipari, discover how the highest-paid college basketball coaches not only rake in millions but also shape the path to major championships. Check out the list of the top 25 earners.
" title="25 highest-paid college basketball head coaches: Who earns the most?" publication_id="BUS#/college-basketball/highest-paid-college-basketball-head-coaches"></div>


<p>Flagg actually has a higher upside as a defender, and while Tatum is a superstar, the Maine native has the potential to be <strong>one of the greatest players to ever lace them up.</strong></p>


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="67eeda350c8fd1e7fdf26c2e" data-title="Will Flagg be a superstar in the NBA?" data-options="2"></div>

Cooper Flagg draws comparison to another Duke and NBA superstar

Cooper Flagg draws comparison to another Duke and NBA superstar - Bolavip US

<p>The<strong> Duke Blue Devils</strong> had the most talked-about prospect in all of college basketball. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cooper-flagg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cooper Flagg</a> became the new great white hope, and he has delivered big-time.</p>



<p>The Maine native had been the most spectacular player in the nation this season, and it hasn’t been particularly close. As such, he’s projected to be the<strong> first overall pick in the 2025 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> Draft.</strong></p>



<p>Nevertheless, an unnamed Western Conference executive isn’t so sure about his bag as a scorer. Talking to ESPN, he questioned <strong>his ability to get buckets down the stretch. </strong></p>



<h2>Executive is worried about Cooper Flagg’s shot-creation </h2>



<p><em><strong>“The question about Flagg has always been: How deep is his bag as a shot creator,</strong></em>” asked the executive<em>. “Is he a guy who can go get you a bucket in the late clock? Can you run your offense through him and expect him to be a go-to guy in money time?. Early in the season, I would have said no. He was at his best in the mid-post. There was a lot of bully ball, jump stops and spin moves. He was primarily looking to get to his pull-up when his first move was cut off. It looked a little bit mechanical, a little predetermined.”</em></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103805/Cooper-Flagg-Duke-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-315502" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Cooper Flagg #2</figcaption></figure>



<p>Of course, there’s<strong> no such thing as a perfect prospec</strong>t, not even someone as well-rounded as Flagg. There will obviously be some speed bumps along the way, just like with all rookies.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball/highest-paid-college-basketball-head-coaches" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20241206_BUS_287583_Bill-Self-1.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="From Bill Self to John Calipari, discover how the highest-paid college basketball coaches not only rake in millions but also shape the path to major championships. Check out the list of the top 25 earners.
" title="25 highest-paid college basketball head coaches: Who earns the most?" publication_id="BUS#/college-basketball/highest-paid-college-basketball-head-coaches"></div>


<p>But even if this is a valid concern, there are more than enough reasons to believe that Flagg will be the<strong> next big thing in the NBA,</strong> and he has everything it takes to be one of the faces of the league. </p>


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="67eeda350c8fd1e7fdf26c2e" data-title="Will Flagg be a superstar in the NBA?" data-options="2"></div>

March Madness: NBA executive shows huge concern about Cooper Flagg

March Madness: NBA executive shows huge concern about Cooper Flagg - Bolavip US

<p>The<strong> Duke Blue Devils </strong>are the best team in the nation right now. As such, expectations are as high as they’ve ever been for Jon Scheyer’s team ahead of the Final Four.</p>



<p>Then again, as dominant as they’ve been for most of the season, they will have their work cut out for them in their upcoming matchup against the top-ranked <strong>Houston Cougars</strong>.</p>



<p>With that in mind, Coach Scheyer tipped his hat to Houston and his colleague <strong>Kelvin Samson,</strong> knowing that they would be a very difficult opponent to get past on Saturday.</p>



<h2>Jon Scheyer praises Houston and Kelvin Samson</h2>



<p><strong><em>“You watch Houston play and you say, ‘All right, we have to get back to work,</em></strong>‘” Scheyer said. <em>“Because they are a special team, they haven’t lost in a long time, obviously. The job that Kelvin Samson has done as a coach in their program, we know him very well. We’ve played him last year, and we played him the year before in a scrimmage. So very quickly it is back to work for us and all about the preparation.”</em></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/30084059/Jon-Scheyer-2-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="Jon Scheyer Duke Blue Devils HC" class="wp-image-366655" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Head coach Jon Scheyer of the Duke Blue Devils</figcaption></figure>



<p>Of course, Duke is the m<strong>ost talked-about team in the nation</strong> right now because of their dominance and<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cooper-flagg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Cooper Flagg</a>, but anything can happen in March Madness in a win-or-go-home situation.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball/highest-paid-college-basketball-head-coaches" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20241206_BUS_287583_Bill-Self-1.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="From Bill Self to John Calipari, discover how the highest-paid college basketball coaches not only rake in millions but also shape the path to major championships. Check out the list of the top 25 earners.
" title="25 highest-paid college basketball head coaches: Who earns the most?" publication_id="BUS#/college-basketball/highest-paid-college-basketball-head-coaches"></div>


<p>The game will tip off on Saturday night, and while the Blue Devils are still the odds-on favorites to go the distance this season, <strong>this will be their toughest challenge yet.</strong></p>


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="67eedaf40c8fd1e7fdf26c33" data-title="Who will win?" data-options="2"></div>

March Madness: Jon Scheyer has big things to say about Houston ahead of Final Four clash

March Madness: Jon Scheyer has big things to say about Houston ahead of Final Four clash - Bolavip US

<p>Long before the start of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball</a> season, even non-hoops fans were <strong>raving about <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cooper-flagg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cooper Flagg</a>.</strong> He was – and still is – the most talked-about player in the nation.</p>



<p>However, as great as he’s been for the<strong> Duke Blue Devils,</strong> basketball is still a team sport. Also, he’s atop every team’s scouting report, so someone else has to step up as well.</p>



<p>That’s why an unnamed NCAA coach tipped his hat to <strong>Kon Knueppel,</strong> calling him an ‘awesome Robin’ and highlighting him as Jon Scheyer’s team’s actual unsung hero.</p>



<h2>Kon Knueppel is the perfect Robin to Cooper Flagg’s Batman</h2>



<p><strong><em>“Knueppel is such an awesome Robin,”</em></strong> one opposing coach familiar with Duke told CBS Sports. “<em>There’s a real Cam Spencer vibe to him in that he’s such a good catch-and-shoot shooter that you have to get all the way to him on a touch. And he’s got such a great shot-fake and such great footwork that, when it’s an even advantage on a drive, he footworks his way to his advantage.”</em></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/15153811/Kon-Knueppel1-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-314291" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Kon Knueppel #7 of the Duke Blue Devils </figcaption></figure>



<p>Like Flagg, Kon Knueppel is now fully expected to be<strong> a first-round pick</strong> in the 2025<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> NBA</a> Draft, and he should most definitely be in the talk to be a top-ten selection.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball/highest-paid-college-basketball-head-coaches" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20241206_BUS_287583_Bill-Self-1.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="From Bill Self to John Calipari, discover how the highest-paid college basketball coaches not only rake in millions but also shape the path to major championships. Check out the list of the top 25 earners.
" title="25 highest-paid college basketball head coaches: Who earns the most?" publication_id="BUS#/college-basketball/highest-paid-college-basketball-head-coaches"></div>


<p>Besides his talents, embracing his role and knowing when and what to do next to a fellow star also speaks volumes about his <strong>maturity and mindset</strong>, and that usually translates to success at the next level. </p>


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="67eeda0d0c8fd1e7fdf26c2d" data-title="Who will have the better career?" data-options="2"></div>

NCAA analyst reveals Duke's secret weapon, and it's not Cooper Flagg

NCAA analyst reveals Duke's secret weapon, and it's not Cooper Flagg - Bolavip US

<p>The <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/duke">Duke Blue Devils</a></strong> took another step toward their goal of claiming the <strong>NCAA</strong> National Championship, punching their ticket to the Final Four. Led once again by the extraordinary talent of <strong>Cooper Flagg</strong>, <strong>Jon Scheyer</strong>‘s squad dominated the <strong>Alabama Crimson Tide</strong>, securing their spot as one of the final four teams in this year’s March Madness.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball/top-seeds-making-history-reaching-the-final-four-and-winning-the-ncaa-tournament" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20250310_BUS_352416_March-Madness-8.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="The top-seeded teams have made history by reaching the NCAA finals. With unexpected victories and epic moments, some seasons and teams have left a mark on college sports and March Madness.
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<p>Heading into the game, defeating Alabama didn’t seem like an easy task—especially after their standout performance in the Sweet 16, where they set a historic mark by hitting 25 three-pointers in their victory over BYU.</p>



<p>After Duke’s commanding 85-65 victory over their rivals, Scheyer spoke with the press and revealed the key factors that helped his team overcome a tough challenge at this stage of the tournament.</p>



<p><em>“For us, we’re at our best at protecting our paint and making a lot of our threes from spray outs. I thought we did a great job with controlling the ball, keeping them out of the paint as much as you can, and our guys were disciplined the whole way,”</em> Scheyer said to Andy Katz of <em>TBS Sports.</em></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/30090639/Duke-Blue-Devils-4-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="Duke Blue Devils" class="wp-image-366663" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Head coach Jon Scheyer of the Duke Blue Devils hugs Cooper Flagg #2 against the Alabama Crimson Tide during the second half in the East Regional Elite Eight round of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at Prudential Center on March 29, 2025 in Newark, New Jersey.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Defending Alabama’s onslaught</h2>



<p>At this stage of the competition, Alabama undoubtedly stood as one of the top contenders for the title, especially after their remarkable performance against BYU. That night, a barrage of three-pointers set a historic milestone in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball">College Basketball</a>, meaning the Blue Devils had to be extra vigilant against it.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball/march-madness-2025-ranking-all-68-teams-in-the-ncaa-tournament" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20250311_BUS_352999_March-Madness-1-4.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="March Madness 2025 is here: 68 teams, fierce rivalries, and future legends battling for glory in the most thrilling NCAA college basketball tournament.
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<p>The HC’s strategy worked to perfection, limiting his opponent to just 8 of 32 attempts from beyond the arc. Grant Nelson was held to just 10 points, and perhaps just as importantly, Duke managed to keep their opponent to the lowest point total of the entire season.</p>



<p>Jon Scheyer crafted a game plan that worked to perfection, relying on his team’s solid defensive effort. From here on out, it remains to be seen what lies ahead as they aim for a spot in the March Madness championship game.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball/2025-mens-march-madness-complete-ncaa-tournament-schedule-and-locations" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20250306_BUS_349797_March-Madness-2-1.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Get ready to experience the excitement of March Madness 2025! From the bracket reveal to the grand final, each round will keep you on the edge of your seat. Follow the road to the championship and check out the official schedule.
" title="2025 Men’s March Madness: Complete NCAA tournament schedule and locations" publication_id="BUS#/college-basketball/2025-mens-march-madness-complete-ncaa-tournament-schedule-and-locations"></div>


<h2>What’s next for the Blue Devils?</h2>



<p>With their spot in the Final Four secured, the Blue Devils await their opponent between the Houston Cougars and the Tennessee Volunteers. The game will take place in San Antonio, Texas, on Saturday, April 5th.</p>


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="67e945480c8fd1e7fdf26ac5" data-title="How far will the Blue Devils go in March Madness?" data-options="3"></div>

Blue Devils HC Jon Scheyer makes major admission after victory vs Alabama

2025 Men’s March Madness: Complete NCAA tournament schedule and locations

NCAAB News: Blue Devils HC Jon Scheyer makes major admission after victory vs Alabama - Bolavip US

NCAAB News: Blue Devils HC Jon Scheyer makes major admission after victory vs Alabama

<p>The <strong>Duke Blue Devils</strong> are the best team in all of<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> college basketball</a> right now. Led by freshmen <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cooper-flagg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cooper Flagg </a>and Kon Knueppel, they’re the odds-on favorites to win the national championship.</p>



<p>However, even good things can be great, and this team isn’t the exception to that rule. Defensive ace <strong>Maliq Brown </strong>has been out with an injury, but he’s inching closer to a return.</p>



<p>According to coach<strong> Jon Scheyer</strong>, Brown could be available for their Sweet 16 matchup with the Arizona Wildcats, and he was even able to partake in their pre-game shootaround. </p>



<h2>Duke could have Maliq Brown back on the court</h2>



<p><strong><em>“There’s a chance he could be available tomorrow night,</em></strong>” Scheyer said.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/22075923/Jon-Scheyer-1-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="Jon Scheyer Duke Blue Devils HC" class="wp-image-361065" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Head Coach John Scheyer </figcaption></figure>



<p>Needless to say, that would be a huge boost for Scheyer and company, as the Wildcats are a very tough offensive team. Led by former UNC star <strong>Caleb Love</strong>, they will be no pushovers.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball/highest-paid-college-basketball-head-coaches" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20241206_BUS_287583_Bill-Self-1.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="From Bill Self to John Calipari, discover how the highest-paid college basketball coaches not only rake in millions but also shape the path to major championships. Check out the list of the top 25 earners.
" title="25 highest-paid college basketball head coaches: Who earns the most?" publication_id="BUS#/college-basketball/highest-paid-college-basketball-head-coaches"></div>


<p>Even so, given the way the Blue Devils have played this season, it’s hard to believe anybody would take them down. Still, anything can happen <strong>in a win-or-go-home situation.</strong></p>


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="67e5a034e70a37cf621484e0" data-title="Will Duke win the title?" data-options="2"></div>

March Madness: Duke could get huge injury boost ahead of Sweet Sixteen clash

March Madness: Duke could get huge injury boost ahead of Sweet Sixteen clash - Bolavip US

<p>The Duke Blue Devils are the best team in the nation right now. They’re the No. 1 seed for a reason, and they’ve crushed their way to the Sweet 16 of the <strong>NCAA Tournament.</strong></p>



<p>Nonetheless, they’re not undefeated, and anything can happen in a win-or-go-home situation, which is why some are worried about their <strong>lack of experience at this stage.</strong></p>



<p>Even so, as much as he acknowledges that they’ve been in some close games and have failed to execute at times,<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cooper-flagg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Cooper Flagg </a>believes that <strong>has only helped them build some character.</strong></p>



<h2>Cooper Flagg is unbothered by the skepticism</h2>



<p>“<em>I think what I would say is that we had some early close games,”</em> Flagg said. <em>“We’ve had some moments that we’ve been in throughout this year that I think we’ve kind of taken and learned from. A<strong>nd some were losses, I think all three of them. We had some good late-game situations that we definitely watched a lot of film on and learned from. I think just by executing and taking what we learned from those games.”</strong></em></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/17123556/Cooper-Flagg-5-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="Cooper Flagg" class="wp-image-357345" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Cooper Flagg #2 of the Duke Blue Devils</figcaption></figure>



<p>Flagg has been nothing short of spectacular this season, and he’s taken his game up a notch in the tournament. Despite being a freshman, <strong>he’s clearly not afraid of big moments.</strong></p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball/highest-paid-college-basketball-head-coaches" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20241206_BUS_287583_Bill-Self-1.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="From Bill Self to John Calipari, discover how the highest-paid college basketball coaches not only rake in millions but also shape the path to major championships. Check out the list of the top 25 earners.
" title="25 highest-paid college basketball head coaches: Who earns the most?" publication_id="BUS#/college-basketball/highest-paid-college-basketball-head-coaches"></div>


<p>Also, he knows this will be his only shot to win a <strong>National Championship</strong> before declaring for the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> Draft, so there’s clearly plenty of additional motivation right there. </p>


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="67e59ff4e70a37cf621484df" data-title="Will Duke win the National Championship?" data-options="2"></div>

Cooper Flagg sends a blunt message to Duke doubters

Cooper Flagg sends a blunt message to Duke doubters - Bolavip US

<p>Young forward <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cooper-flagg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cooper Flagg</a> hadn’t played a single minute of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball</a>, and people were already talking about him being the<strong> first overall pick in the 2025 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> Draft.</strong></p>



<p>Fast forward to today, and that narrative hasn’t changed one bit. He’s averaged <strong>18.7 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.4 steals, and 1.3 blocks </strong>per game for the season, leading his team in all major categories.</p>



<p>That’s why it’s not a surprise to see the Duke Blue Devils star being a finalist for the <strong>2025 Jersey Mike’s Naismith Men’s College Player of the Year</strong>. As reported by Kevin Barbo of Athlon Sports, winning the award would make him a part of a very exclusive club.</p>



<h2>Cooper Flagg can join a very exclusive club</h2>



<p>“<em><strong>If Flagg were to win the award, he’d become just the fourth men’s basketball player to win the award as a freshman, joining Kevin Durant (2007), Anthony Davis (2012) and Zion Williamson (2019),”</strong></em> wrote Borba. <em>“Counting the women’s side, he would also become the fifth freshman to ever win the award, as UConn’s Paige Bueckers won the award for her stellar 2021 season.”</em></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/23103007/Cooper-Flagg-9-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="Cooper Flagg" class="wp-image-361730" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Cooper Flagg #2 of the Duke Blue Devils </figcaption></figure>



<p>Needless to say, that’s a very elite group of players to be a part of. And if that’s a predictor for success in the pros, then Flagg is<strong> going to be an NBA star in no time at all.</strong></p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball/highest-paid-college-basketball-head-coaches" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20241206_BUS_287583_Bill-Self-1.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="From Bill Self to John Calipari, discover how the highest-paid college basketball coaches not only rake in millions but also shape the path to major championships. Check out the list of the top 25 earners.
" title="25 highest-paid college basketball head coaches: Who earns the most?" publication_id="BUS#/college-basketball/highest-paid-college-basketball-head-coaches"></div>


<p>Of course, he needs to win the award first, but judging by the way he’s played this season and his unmatched popularity, it would be <strong>very difficult to bet against him right now. </strong></p>


Cooper Flagg can make NCAAB history with 2025 Naismith Trophy nomination

Cooper Flagg can make NCAAB history with 2025 Naismith Trophy nomination - Bolavip US

<p>The<strong> Duke Blue Devils </strong>got by just fine in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cooper-flagg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cooper Flagg’s</a> brief absence. He sustained an ankle injury that raised plenty of concerns, but he has shown no signs of slowing down because of that.</p>



<p>Then, in his team’s second-round <strong>NCAA Tournament win over Baylor</strong>, he was inadvertently poked in the eye. He held his fiance and was bleeding and had a swollen face.</p>



<p>That’s why some people were worried about him ahead of his team’s Sweet 16 clash with Arizona. Flagg, however, was completely <strong>unbothered by the poked eye</strong>, and he’s going to be fully available. </p>



<h2>Cooper Flagg shuts down injury concerns ahead of Sweet 16 clash</h2>



<p><em><strong>“Yeah, I’m all good. My eye feels pretty good right now,”</strong></em> Flagg said after the game. He finished the game with 18 points, nine boards, six assists, and one block in 29 minutes, so he wasn’t limited by it at all. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/22073843/Cooper-Flagg-7-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="Cooper Flagg" class="wp-image-361059" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Cooper Flagg #2 of the Duke Blue Devils</figcaption></figure>



<p>The projected first-overall pick of the 2025 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> Draft has been efficient since he returned from<strong> his ankle injury.</strong> He’s exceeded all expectations so far, and he’s going to continue to be crucial to his team’s aspirations.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball/highest-paid-college-basketball-head-coaches" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20241206_BUS_287583_Bill-Self-1.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="From Bill Self to John Calipari, discover how the highest-paid college basketball coaches not only rake in millions but also shape the path to major championships. Check out the list of the top 25 earners.
" title="25 highest-paid college basketball head coaches: Who earns the most?" publication_id="BUS#/college-basketball/highest-paid-college-basketball-head-coaches"></div>


<p>Flagg was recently named a finalist for the Naismith Player of the Year award, and given the way he’s played, it’s very hard to envision anybody else <strong>beating him for that distinction. </strong></p>


March Madness: Cooper Flagg gets brutally honest on his eye injury ahead of Duke's Sweet 16 matchup with Arizona

March Madness: Cooper Flagg gets brutally honest on his eye injury ahead of Duke's Sweet 16 matchup with Arizona - Bolavip US

<p>Undoubtedly, <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cooper-flagg">Cooper Flagg</a></strong>’s presence in <strong>College Basketball</strong> has skyrocketed this season, thanks to his exceptional skills on the court. His decision to join the <strong>Duke Blue Devils</strong> had one key factor behind it, a standout figure who distinguished from the rest of the programs to secure the <strong>NCAA</strong> jewel.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball/the-greatest-march-madness-coaches-of-all-time-who-built-the-best-dynasties" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20250310_BUS_352132_John-Wooden-March-Madness-1.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="From Coach K’s Duke legacy to Wooden&apos;s UCLA dynasty, these legends didn’t just win titles—they shaped the very fabric of college basketball and March Madness, creating dynasties that still echo today.
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<p><strong>The figure in question is the team’s head coach, Jon Scheyer</strong>, who managed to stand out above the rest when it came to convincing Flagg to join the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/duke">Blue Devils</a> for this season.</p>



<p>In a recent conversation with the media, Flagg finally revealed the main reason behind his decision to start his college career at Duke, rather than at other programs that were also trying to recruit him.</p>



<p><strong><em>“He comes from not telling me what I want to hear,”</em></strong> Flagg said, per Josh Graham vis his official X account (Formerly Twitter) <em>@JoshGrahamShow</em>. <em>“Some of the things that I was looking for in a coach that wasn’t just going to tell me what I wanted to hear,”</em> he also added.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">“He comes from not telling me what I want to hear.”<br><br>Cooper Flagg spoke about what separated Jon Scheyer from the other coaches who recruited him. <a href="https://t.co/yALjPK24uq">pic.twitter.com/yALjPK24uq</a></p>— Josh Graham (@JoshGrahamShow) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoshGrahamShow/status/1903533897637355701?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 22, 2025</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



<p><em>“…My parents and my AAU coach they definitely wouldn’t let me get too full of myself. I think that’s what I look for in a coach. Tough love and honesty. I think it just comes from that,”</em> Flagg continued. <em>“He watched a lot of my games, and we would talk after some of them. Telling me what he (Scheyer) saw, rather than what I wanted to hear.”</em></p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball/phoenix-suns-legend-charles-barkley-makes-surprising-march-madness-prediction-about-cooper-flaggs-duke" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20250320_BUS_360027_Former-NBA-basketball-player-and-sports-analyst-Charles-Barkley-walks-at-the-18th-hole-on-day-one-of.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="As March Madness and the college basketball frenzy gets underway, Phoenix Suns legend Charles Barkley made a surprising prediction about Cooper Flagg and the Duke Blue Devils.
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<h2>Duke, the team to beat</h2>



<p>After their dominant win in the March Madness debut against Mount St. Mary’s, the Blue Devils have undoubtedly become the team to beat. With Cooper Flagg’s return to the court, Jon Scheyer’s squad is emerging as one of the serious title contenders.</p>



<p>Following an excellent regular-season campaign, Duke doesn’t want to leave anything to chance in these stages and aims to dethrone the UConn Huskies to become the new champions of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball">College Basketball</a>.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball/march-madness-2025-ranking-all-68-teams-in-the-ncaa-tournament" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20250311_BUS_352999_March-Madness-1-4.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="March Madness 2025 is here: 68 teams, fierce rivalries, and future legends battling for glory in the most thrilling NCAA college basketball tournament.
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<p>It will be a matter of seeing how far Scheyer and his players will go, as they didn’t make it this far to be mere supporting actors; they want to be the new main characters in this story.</p>


Cooper Flagg reveals the main reason he joined the Duke Blue Devils

NCAAB News: Cooper Flagg reveals the main reason he joined the Duke Blue Devils - Bolavip US

NCAAB News: Cooper Flagg reveals the main reason he joined the Duke Blue Devils

<p>The <strong>Duke Blue Devils</strong>‘ debut in the <strong><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball">NCAA</a> Tournament</strong> was not only rewarding, as Jon Scheyer’s squad secured a victory over <strong>Mount St. Mary’s</strong>, but it also marked the return of their star, <strong>Cooper Flagg</strong>, to the court after just over a week.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball/march-madness-2025-ranking-all-68-teams-in-the-ncaa-tournament" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20250311_BUS_352999_March-Madness-1-4.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="March Madness 2025 is here: 68 teams, fierce rivalries, and future legends battling for glory in the most thrilling NCAA college basketball tournament.
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<p>Much has been said in recent days about the potential presence of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cooper-flagg">Flagg</a> in Duke’s debut in this prestigious tournament, and fortunately for them, not only did the star return, but he did so in the best possible way—showing no signs of discomfort in the ankle that had been troubling him.</p>



<p><em>“I think what I would say is I’ve done a great job with the medical staff preparing and just being ready,”</em> Flagg stated to the press once the game concluded. <strong><em>“So I already felt completely 100% and confident going into tonight’s game.”</em></strong></p>



<p>The Maine native finished his game with stats worthy of one of the league’s best players: 14 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists, and a pair of blocked shots, after playing 22 minutes.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/22075243/Cooper-Flagg-8-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="Cooper Flagg" class="wp-image-361062" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Cooper Flagg #2 of the Duke Blue Devils dribbles the ball during the second half in the first round of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament against the Mount St. Mary’s Mountaineers at Lenovo Center on March 21, 2025 in Raleigh, North Carolina. </figcaption></figure>



<h2>Scheyer’s reflection after Flagg’s return</h2>



<p>After the game, where the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/duke">Blue Devils</a> ultimately defeated their opponent with a final score of 93-49, Jon Scheyer took the time to speak with the press and share his thoughts on Cooper Flagg’s return to the court.</p>


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<p><em>“I’ve been on many sides of this in my playing days, coaching days—you don’t take any game for granted. I think it’s very easy to say, yeah, [Flagg] should just rest. Well, you want to have your best team, and you’re not promised the next game,” </em>Scheyer said. </p>



<p><strong><em>“I didn’t think he looked like it, but you have some natural rust. Just the game experience, I think, is really important to understand what the tournament is like,”</em></strong> he also added.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="SEO" link="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball/the-greatest-march-madness-coaches-of-all-time-who-built-the-best-dynasties" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.bolavip.com%2Fwebp%2Fen%2Ffull%2FBUS_20250310_BUS_352132_John-Wooden-March-Madness-1.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="From Coach K’s Duke legacy to Wooden&apos;s UCLA dynasty, these legends didn’t just win titles—they shaped the very fabric of college basketball and March Madness, creating dynasties that still echo today.
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<p>Additionally, he praised the team effort that led to a solid victory in their debut: <em>“It was a workmanlike performance by our team. Really good to get our feet wet and understand what the tournament was all about.”</em></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/22075923/Jon-Scheyer-1-1024x576-1024x576.webp" alt="Jon Scheyer Duke Blue Devils HC" class="wp-image-361065" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Head Coach John Scheyer of the Duke Blue Devils reacts during the first half in the first round of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament against the Mount St. Mary’s Mountaineers at Lenovo Center on March 21, 2025 in Raleigh, North Carolina.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>What’s next for the Blue Devils?</h2>



<p>After a commanding victory over Mount St. Mary’s in their March Madness debut, <strong>Jon Scheyer’s squad will now face none other than Baylor.</strong> The game will be held once again at the Lenovo Center in Raleigh.</p>


Blue Devils star Cooper Flagg makes major admission after win vs Mount St. Mary's in NCAA Tournament debut

Blue Devils star Cooper Flagg makes major admission after win vs Mount St. Mary's in NCAA Tournament debut - Bolavip US

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