In a surprising turn of events, Duke head coach Jon Scheyer has offered bold and unexpected advice to his star freshman Cooper Flagg, just weeks before the phenom is expected to make his decision regarding the NBA Draft.
Flagg, widely projected to be the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, has taken the basketball world by storm with his rare combination of skill, athleticism, and defensive prowess. With scouts and franchises already eyeing him as a future franchise cornerstone, many assumed his jump to the NBA was a foregone conclusion. But Scheyer’s latest comments may have shifted the conversation.
“Don’t rush greatness,” Scheyer told reporters during a recent interview. “If Cooper wants to go pro, he’ll have every opportunity in the world. But I’ve told him: take a step back. Enjoy being a college kid. Dominate here. Learn how to lead. There’s no rule saying you have to leave after one year.”
The advice is especially shocking given the modern college basketball landscape, where one-and-done players are not only expected—but encouraged—to declare early for the draft. Yet Scheyer’s approach is more philosophical, perhaps even personal.
“The NBA will always be there,” he continued. “But the time you spend building your foundation—on and off the court—is priceless. That’s the part people don’t always see.”
Flagg has remained publicly quiet about his intentions, focusing on training and upcoming pre-draft evaluations. However, sources close to the program say he deeply respects Scheyer’s perspective and has taken the message to heart.
While many still expect Flagg to declare for the 2025 NBA Draft, Scheyer’s advice introduces a rare element of uncertainty—and perhaps a reminder that even in the fast-paced world of professional sports, patience can still be a virtue.
Whether Flagg stays or goes, one thing is clear: his future is blindingly bright, and Scheyer’s mentorship could prove to be just as impactful off the court as it has been on it.
