Cooper Flagg, the standout freshman forward for Duke University, has officially announced his decision to return for a second season with the Blue Devils. In a heartfelt statement, Flagg shared, “After talking with my family and the coaches, I’ve decided that I’m coming back to Duke.” This announcement comes after a season where Flagg emerged as a dominant force in college basketball, leading Duke in multiple statistical categories and earning accolades such as the USBWA Player and Freshman of the Year.
Flagg’s decision to return is significant, as he had been projected as a potential No. 1 pick in the upcoming NBA Draft. His freshman season was marked by impressive performances, including a record-breaking 42-point game against Notre Dame, setting new freshman scoring records for both Duke and the ACC. Throughout the season, he averaged 19.3 points, 7.6 rebounds, 4.1 assists, 1.6 steals, and 1.1 blocks per game, showcasing his versatility and skill on the court.
Duke head coach Jon Scheyer expressed his excitement about Flagg’s decision, emphasizing the positive impact it will have on the team’s aspirations for the upcoming season. “Having Cooper back gives us a tremendous boost,” Scheyer remarked. “His leadership and talent are invaluable as we aim for another successful season.”
Former Duke head coach Mike Krzyzewski also weighed in on Flagg’s decision, advising him to consider all factors carefully. “There are a lot of factors at play, but in Cooper’s case, he should do whatever he feels is best for him,” Krzyzewski said. “My thing is just be smart. You only get to do this once, and you’re only going to have this opportunity for a certain amount of time.”
Flagg’s return to Duke adds to the excitement surrounding the Blue Devils’ program, as they look to build upon their success from the previous season. With Flagg’s leadership and talent, Duke is poised to be a formidable contender in college basketball in the upcoming season.
Leave a Reply