Cooper Flagg’s NBA dream is alive and well after a heartbreaking loss with Duke University. Despite initially expressing interest in returning to Duke for another year, Flagg has now set his sights on the 2025 NBA Draft, where he’s projected to be the number one pick.
Flagg’s college career was nothing short of spectacular. He led Duke to a 35-4 record and an ACC championship, earning himself numerous accolades, including the youngest AP Player of the Year in college basketball history and the John R. Wooden Award. His impressive stats – 18.9 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game – made him a coveted prospect for NBA teams.
There are several reasons why Flagg won’t return to Duke for another year. Financial considerations play a significant role, as Flagg could potentially earn $75 million to $125 million in salary if he enters the NBA draft immediately. Delaying his entry could cost him a significant portion of this amount. Additionally, there’s always a risk of injury in sports, and for Flagg, this could impact his draft position and future earning potential. While Flagg earns around $4.8 million in NIL money, this amount can’t compare to the rookie scale salary of the NBA.
Despite the heartbreak of losing to Houston in the NCAA Tournament, Flagg remains focused on his NBA future. He expressed his excitement about joining the NBA, stating, “It would be a blessing for me to get drafted by any team in the NBA. That’s a dream of mine, to play in the NBA. I would feel blessed to play for any team.”
Several NBA teams are likely to be interested in Flagg, considering his impressive college performance. His versatility, skill, and maturity make him an attractive prospect for teams looking to build or rebuild their roster. With his sights set on the NBA, Flagg is poised to become a generational talent and a key player in the league.
