In a surprising twist that has the basketball world buzzing, Duke head coach Jon Scheyer has hinted that Cooper Flagg—widely considered the top prospect in the 2025 NBA Draft—might take an unconventional path and potentially skip the NBA, at least temporarily.
Scheyer’s cryptic yet enthusiastic comments came during a recent interview following a team workout. When asked about Flagg’s development and future, the Duke coach offered more than the usual praise. “Cooper is a special kind of player, but he’s also a unique kind of person,” Scheyer said. “He’s not necessarily locked into the traditional route. He wants to be somewhere where he can grow in every aspect—not just as a player, but as a leader, as a thinker.”
Fans and analysts alike were quick to interpret this as a sign that Flagg may consider spending more than the expected one year in college—or possibly explore options outside the NBA pipeline altogether. Some speculate he might be eyeing international opportunities, mentorship roles, or even pioneering a new kind of development path altogether.
Flagg, who committed to Duke in 2023 and reclassified to the 2024 recruiting class, has already drawn comparisons to NBA stars like Kevin Durant and Jayson Tatum. His performances in high school and on the AAU circuit have consistently impressed scouts, with many projecting him as a likely No. 1 overall pick.
But Scheyer’s comments point to a broader mindset that Flagg may be embracing—a desire to shape his own destiny rather than follow the well-trodden one-and-done path to the NBA. “He’s thinking beyond just the next level,” Scheyer added. “He’s thinking about legacy.”
The idea of a top prospect delaying or even bypassing the NBA is rare but not unprecedented. With the NCAA’s evolving NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) rules, elite athletes now have more incentive than ever to stay in school. Flagg, already a household name in basketball circles, could benefit tremendously both financially and personally by remaining at Duke beyond his freshman year.
Social media lit up after the interview, with fans debating what Flagg’s next move might be. Some praised his maturity and vision, while others questioned whether bypassing the NBA would hinder his development or risk injury.
As the 2024–2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on Durham. Whether Cooper Flagg chooses to blaze a new trail or ultimately enters the NBA draft, one thing is certain: he’s doing it on his own terms—and that alone is generating major buzz.
