Cooper Flagg declares for 2025 NBA Draft as top prospect

In a notable move for American college basketball, Cooper Flagg, a freshman star at Duke University, announced his decision to enter the 2025 NBA Draft. This announcement came on a Monday in April 2025, following a highly successful season in which Flagg became a prominent figure in college basketball. During his single season with the Blue Devils, he not only led the team to the Final Four but also earned significant accolades, becoming the national player of the year. His decision was anticipated throughout the season, as he had reclassified and played at Duke a year early, showcasing exceptional talent despite being only 18 years old. Flagg's performance throughout the season was exceptional; he averaged impressive statistics including 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists, and 1.4 blocks per game. His remarkable ability as a scorer, playmaker, and defender solidified him as a generational talent at the forward position. His most memorable moment occurred when he set an Atlantic Coast Conference freshman record by scoring 42 points in a single game against Notre Dame. This secured his position as a leading prospect for the upcoming draft. Several factors contributed to Flagg's decision to turn pro, despite contemplating a potential return to college basketball. With the financial incentives of the NBA, including a rookie contract that would allow him to secure a more lucrative deal sooner, it made practical sense for him to declare for the draft now rather than delaying his professional career. His coach at Duke, Jon Scheyer, expressed pride in Flagg's accomplishments, highlighting his impact in the game both statistically and in terms of team culture. With the NBA draft lottery scheduled for May 12, 2025, teams that did not qualify for the playoffs, such as the Utah Jazz, Washington Wizards, and Charlotte Hornets, will compete for the opportunity to select him as the first overall pick. Flagg's potential to attract fans and generate viewership is seen as beneficial for the NBA, particularly as the league looks to introduce new stars. As a result of his extraordinary season and his impending move to the NBA, there is significant excitement surrounding his future trajectory in professional basketball.