In the high-stakes world of college basketball, few programs carry the weight of expectations quite like Duke. The Blue Devils entered the 2024-25 season with the hopes of landing the top-ranked recruit in the country, Cooper Flagg — a generational talent whose commitment could have solidified Duke’s championship aspirations. But when Flagg chose UConn over Duke, the program was forced to recalibrate its future plans.
The Flagg Factor
Cooper Flagg’s decision was more than just a recruiting miss — it was a seismic shift in the landscape of college basketball. A dynamic forward with elite two-way potential, Flagg was expected to be a game-changer. His presence would have elevated Duke’s already strong recruiting class and put them squarely in the national title conversation. Instead, Duke now faces a season of transition, not dominance.
Life After the Miss
Despite the disappointment, Duke’s cupboard is far from bare. Head coach Jon Scheyer has assembled a deep and talented roster, even without Flagg. Returners like Tyrese Proctor and Caleb Foster bring experience and backcourt leadership, while incoming freshmen Isaiah Evans, Kon Knueppel, and Khaman Maluach offer size, scoring, and versatility. It’s not the “super team” fans had envisioned — but it’s a team built with grit and promise.
What Changes for Duke?
Without Flagg, Duke’s offensive and defensive identity will need to evolve. Rather than leaning on a singular superstar, the team is likely to adopt a more balanced, team-first approach. Expect to see more ball movement, fast-paced transition play, and increased emphasis on perimeter shooting. Defensively, Maluach’s rim protection could be key, while Proctor and Foster will be asked to clamp down on opposing guards.
The Pressure on Scheyer
Now entering his third year at the helm, Jon Scheyer faces perhaps his most pivotal season yet. While he’s proven he can recruit with the best of them, questions remain about his ability to develop talent and make deep tournament runs. The pressure is magnified without a headliner like Flagg to anchor the roster. Scheyer’s ability to maximize the talent he does have will be critical — not just for this season, but for the long-term trajectory of the program.
Fan Expectations: Reset or Reload?
Duke fans are accustomed to Final Four aspirations, and that won’t change overnight. But this year, expectations may need to be tempered. While the Blue Devils still boast a top-tier roster by most standards, the road to March will be more uncertain than in seasons past. That said, there’s plenty for fans to be excited about — especially in watching a group of hungry, less-heralded players grow together under the spotlight.
Looking Ahead
The Flagg miss might feel like a setback, but it also opens the door for new stars to emerge. Sometimes, the most memorable teams aren’t the ones stacked with future NBA talent, but the ones that come together through adversity. Duke’s journey without Cooper Flagg might not be the one fans expected — but it could still be one worth watching.
