
Duke's Cooper Flagg Takes Big Step, Enters 2025 NBA Draft
After an impressive freshman season, Duke's Cooper Flagg announces his entry into the upcoming NBA Draft, where he is favored to be the first overall pick.
Cooper Flagg, a standout player from Duke University, has officially decided to enter the 2025 NBA Draft after a remarkable single season with the Blue Devils. At just 18 years old, Flagg is anticipated to be the first overall pick in the draft scheduled for June 25-26 in Brooklyn, New York.
Flagg shared the announcement via an Instagram post on April 21, stating, “It was an incredible year, probably the best year of my life. I have so much gratitude. I feel so blessed for all the opportunities that I was given. Duke has always been a dream for me, but I'm excited to announce that I'll be entering my name into the 2025 NBA Draft. Today's just the beginning, but I have the brotherhood with me for life.”
During his season at Duke, Flagg not only proved his worth as the top recruit nationally but also led the team to the Final Four, earning prestigious honors such as the John R. Wooden Award. He averaged 19.2 points and 7.5 rebounds per game while contributing significantly to Duke’s success in both the ACC regular-season title and the ACC Tournament.
In the NCAA Tournament, his performance peaked with averages of 21 points and 7.6 rebounds per game. Notably, he set a conference record by scoring 42 points in a single game against Notre Dame shortly after his 18th birthday. Flagg was also recognized as the AP men's college basketball player of the year.
The upcoming NBA Draft Lottery is set for May 12, where the possibility of Flagg being the top pick is highly anticipated. Early predictions from FOX Sports suggest that the Washington Wizards will select him first overall.