Category: Duke Blue Devils

Duke can win its ACC record 23rd men’s basketball conference championship on Saturday night.

The news isn’t all good for the top-seeded Blue Devils ahead of their clash with Louisville, though.

Duke will be without freshman phenom Cooper Flagg once again.

Flagg, who sprained his left ankle in a quarterfinal game against Georgia Tech, didn’t play in Duke’s semifinal win over North Carolina on Friday.

Blue Devils head coach Jon Scheyer confirmed Flagg’s status for the final after Friday’s game.

“As far as Cooper goes, he’s doing better,” Scheyer told reporters. “Sprained ankle, all the imaging came back negative. He sprained it pretty good, though. It’s a good sprain. I’m not breaking any news. He’s not going to play tomorrow. He can’t play.”

There is something a tad foreboding about those final words, “He can’t play.”

Duke will surely be a No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament with a win Saturday, and will still be seeded highly even with a loss.

Flagg’s status could impact the mind of a tournament seeder or two, but more relevant than what seed Duke gets is whether he is on the court when the dance starts.

“Our goal is to have him ready for the tournament,” Scheyer said. “But we need to see how this weekend goes with the swelling and what he can do.”

Flagg wore a sweatsuit during Duke’s rivalry clash on Friday, and he walked on his own without any weight-bearing support.

In an unexpected but highly significant turn of events, Duke Blue Devils star forward Cooper Flagg has reportedly turned down a massive $11.9 million NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) offer from the Kentucky Wildcats. This bold decision reaffirms Flagg’s commitment to completing his college career at Duke, despite the considerable financial temptation from one of college basketball’s most storied programs.

Flagg, a top-ranked recruit in the 2024 class, has made waves in the basketball world for his exceptional skills, defensive prowess, and versatility on the court. Known for his ability to impact both ends of the floor, Flagg has been widely regarded as one of the most promising young talents in college basketball in recent years. His decision to stay with Duke, however, is indicative of his commitment to not only his basketball development but also to his college experience.

The offer from Kentucky, worth an eye-watering $11.9 million, underscores the growing power of NIL deals in college sports, particularly in basketball. Kentucky, under head coach John Calipari, has long been a powerhouse in the college basketball landscape, with a reputation for producing NBA-ready talent. The Wildcats’ aggressive pursuit of Flagg highlights their continued commitment to building a championship-contending team, leveraging the immense financial opportunities that NIL provides to attract the best players.

Despite the substantial financial package presented by Kentucky, Flagg’s decision to remain loyal to Duke speaks volumes about his values and priorities. Reports suggest that Flagg’s choice was driven by several factors, including the strong relationship he has with the Duke coaching staff and the opportunity to play for a program with a rich basketball tradition. Under head coach Jon Scheyer, Duke has become an increasingly attractive destination for elite recruits, with Scheyer’s approach to player development and his focus on creating a team-first culture resonating with Flagg.

Furthermore, Flagg has expressed his desire to stay at Duke for the full length of his college career, which may not only aid in his personal growth but also help establish his legacy at one of the premier programs in NCAA history. The chance to compete in the ACC, under the spotlight that comes with playing for Duke, offers Flagg a unique platform to continue to hone his skills while preparing for a future in professional basketball.

Flagg’s decision to forgo such a lucrative NIL offer also raises important questions about the direction of college sports in the age of NIL deals. While the financial incentives associated with NIL can be extremely tempting, particularly for young athletes coming from humble backgrounds, Flagg’s decision to prioritize his collegiate journey over immediate financial gain may set a new standard for future recruits.

The move also highlights the evolving role that coaching staffs and player development programs play in a recruit’s decision-making process. As NIL deals continue to grow in importance, it’s clear that athletes like Flagg are balancing financial considerations with the broader picture of their long-term career and personal growth.

In the grand scheme of things, Cooper Flagg’s decision represents a significant moment in college basketball. It serves as a reminder that while NIL deals are reshaping the landscape of college sports, the commitment to academic, athletic, and personal development remains central to the college experience. For Flagg, staying at Duke is not just about basketball; it’s about creating a legacy both on and off the court.

 

The Blue Devils could be lining up without the ACC Player of the Year for the first time this season

The Duke basketball team has not experienced playing without Cooper Flagg this season but that is becoming increasingly more likely for Friday night at the ACC Tournament.

Flagg sprained his ankle on Thursday late in the first half of the Blue Devils’ comeback victory against Georgia Tech and was put in a wheelchair near the locker room in order to be transported to the X-Ray room.

The superstar freshman would return to the bench despite being ruled out for the game but did not have any brace or walking boot on his left foot.

However, Jon Scheyer was not optimistic about Flagg’s status for the semifinals.

“Sprained his ankle, X-rays were negative, which is great,” he said. “We just have to understand there’s going to be swelling and see how he recovers and how he goes from there.”

Flagg struggled as Duke dug a 14-point hole prior to his injury, scoring just two points on 1-of-7 shooting.

“I would have to be convinced by everybody in the locker room when I go back there that he should play. It’s not worth it. It just isn’t,” Scheyer continued.

“He was swollen already. It’s not about being ready to go tomorrow. That’s not the most important thing for us. We’ve got to see if we can get him right for this run that we can make in the tournament.”

Duke will play North Carolina in the ACC Tournament Semifinals after the Tar Heels responded to a small deficit in the second half against Wake Forest.

Flagg, despite battling foul trouble in Chapel Hill, had 16 points, nine rebounds, six assists, and four blocks during the Blue Devil comeback victory over the Tar Heels last week.

He had 21 points, eight rebounds, seven assists, three steals, and two blocks when the teams met in February for the first time this season.

“I would have to be really convinced that we should even consider seeing if he can go tomorrow,” Scheyer added. “He may not be able to go anyway. He probably won’t be able to go anyway. But I think it’s a real long shot. A real long shot.”

Duke fans are currently holding their collective breath.

During the ACC tournament quarterfinals against Georgia Tech on Thursday, Blue Devils superstar freshman Cooper Flagg rolled his left ankle badly and had to leave the game.

He was later taken by wheelchair for further examination.

When he emerged from the locker room his ankle appeared to be badly swollen.

That is horrible news for Duke, as Flagg is the favorite to win National Player of the Year. The forward entered Thursday’s game averaging 19.4 points, 7.6 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.5 steals, and 1.5 blocks per game, while shooting 49.4% from the field and 37.7% from three-point range.

Even before Flagg’s injury, the game was not going well for the top-seeded Blue Devils. At one point they trailed the Yellow Jackets 26-12, though Duke was able to tighten the game up. Georgia Tech leads 31-26 at the half.

Flagg returned to the bench but was ruled out. Now attention will turn to his availability for next week’s NCAA tournament.

Breaking News: Duke Blue Devils Forward Cooper Flagg Wins Sporting News National Player of the Year

In a remarkable achievement that underscores his dominance on the court, Duke Blue Devils forward Cooper Flagg has been named the Sporting News National Player of the Year for the 2024 college basketball season. This prestigious honor cements Flagg’s place as one of the top players in the nation, following an outstanding campaign that captured the attention of basketball fans and experts alike.

Flagg’s journey to this award has been nothing short of extraordinary. Since joining Duke, the 6’8” forward has been a consistent force on both ends of the floor. His unique blend of athleticism, basketball IQ, and leadership abilities has made him one of the most well-rounded players in the country. His combination of scoring, defense, and playmaking has earned him recognition as one of the top prospects for the NBA Draft, further solidifying his growing legacy.

Dominant Play on Both Ends

One of the most striking aspects of Flagg’s game is his versatility. Offensively, he has shown an uncanny ability to score from almost anywhere on the floor. His sharp shooting, particularly from beyond the arc, has been a major asset for Duke this season. Flagg’s ability to stretch the floor and create scoring opportunities for both himself and his teammates has been a key element of Duke’s offensive scheme. He averaged 20.1 points per game, with an impressive 45% shooting from three-point range, making him a constant threat for opposing defenses.

Defensively, Flagg has been equally impressive. Known for his ability to guard multiple positions, he has established himself as one of the premier defensive players in the country. His agility, timing, and understanding of the game allow him to disrupt passing lanes, block shots, and dominate the boards. Over the course of the season, Flagg averaged 8.2 rebounds and 2.3 blocks per game, numbers that reflect his relentless work ethic and his desire to impact the game in every way possible.

Leadership and Intangibles

Beyond his raw statistics, Cooper Flagg’s leadership on the court has been a defining feature of his game. As one of the key players for Coach Jon Scheyer’s Blue Devils, Flagg has led by example with his commitment to excellence and his ability to perform in clutch moments. His poise in pressure situations and ability to inspire his teammates has been instrumental in Duke’s success this season. His leadership has been particularly evident in key matchups against top-tier opponents, where Flagg consistently rose to the occasion and delivered when it mattered most.

Flagg’s maturity and basketball IQ have also been areas where he stands out. His ability to read the game, make quick decisions, and dictate the pace has helped elevate Duke’s offensive and defensive schemes. His awareness on the court is often described as that of a veteran, even though he is still relatively early in his collegiate career.

A Bright Future Ahead

As the season progresses, the buzz around Flagg’s potential in the NBA Draft grows louder. Many scouts have labeled him as a potential top pick, with his combination of size, skill, and versatility being highly coveted in the professional game. However, for now, Flagg’s focus remains on helping Duke secure a national championship. His personal accolades are certainly well-deserved, but Flagg’s ultimate goal is to lead his team to victory on the biggest stage in college basketball.

With his incredible talent and unrelenting work ethic, Cooper Flagg has proven himself as not just a future NBA star, but as the best player in college basketball this season. His victory as the Sporting News National Player of the Year serves as a well-earned recognition of his impact on the game and his bright future ahead.

In a thrilling announcement, high school basketball sensation Cooper Flagg has officially committed to play for the Duke Blue Devils, sending waves of excitement through the college basketball world. Flagg, one of the most highly coveted prospects in the country, confirmed his decision during a press conference earlier today, expressing his unwavering dedication to the storied program.

Flagg, a 6’8” forward from Maine, has been regarded as one of the top talents in the Class of 2025. With his remarkable blend of size, skill, and athleticism, he has drawn comparisons to some of the best players to ever play the game. His versatility, basketball IQ, and defensive prowess have made him a top target for virtually every powerhouse program in college basketball, but it was Duke who ultimately secured his commitment.

Speaking to a packed room of reporters, Flagg shared his excitement about the decision. “I will stay,” he said, referring to his commitment to play for Coach Jon Scheyer and the Blue Devils. “Duke is where I feel I can grow the most as a player and a person. The program’s rich history, the coaching staff, and the team environment all played a big role in my decision.”

Flagg’s commitment is a major coup for Duke, who has been actively recruiting the young star for months. Coach Jon Scheyer, who took over the Blue Devils’ program in 2022, has been focused on building a roster that can contend for national championships, and landing a player of Flagg’s caliber is a huge step forward in achieving that goal.

The decision comes at a time when Duke is looking to reassert its dominance in the college basketball landscape. With Flagg’s commitment, the Blue Devils now have a cornerstone player to build around for the upcoming seasons. His ability to impact both ends of the floor – from scoring to defense – makes him an ideal fit for the program’s up-tempo style of play.

For Flagg, the commitment to Duke signals a strong desire to develop further under the guidance of Scheyer and the coaching staff, with the goal of one day making the leap to the NBA. He is expected to be an immediate contributor to the Blue Devils, and his arrival is sure to raise the expectations for the program in the coming years.

Duke fans can now look forward to watching one of the nation’s top prospects suit up for their team, as Flagg’s commitment solidifies the Blue Devils as one of the premier teams in college basketball for the future.

 

Breaking News: Jon Scheyer, The Powerhouse Coach Behind The Duke Blue Devils, Has Just Been Crowned The 2025 Naismith Coach of the Year – and She’s Walking Away With A Jaw-Dropping $9.7 Million!

In an unexpected and groundbreaking turn of events, Jon Scheyer, the head coach of the Duke Blue Devils, has been named the 2025 Naismith College Basketball Coach of the Year. Known for his exceptional coaching and leadership, Scheyer has risen to prominence in the world of college basketball, but this latest accolade has taken everyone by surprise. What’s even more astonishing is the significant financial reward attached to this honor — a jaw-dropping $9.7 million.

This recognition, given annually to the top coach in NCAA Division I men’s basketball, is one of the most prestigious awards in the sport. It acknowledges not only a coach’s ability to guide their team to excellence but also their overall impact on the development of their players, their strategic brilliance, and their contribution to the sport’s rich history. The Naismith Award, named after Dr. James Naismith, the inventor of basketball, is a symbol of outstanding coaching performance, and winning it places Scheyer among the greats of college basketball.

What makes this year’s award especially notable is the significant financial bonus that comes with it. A whopping $9.7 million, an amount that surpasses any previous awards associated with the Naismith Coach of the Year honor, has left the sports world in awe. While college coaches are often handsomely compensated, Scheyer’s remarkable achievement adds a new layer of prestige to his already impressive career. The reward not only highlights his achievements on the court but also underscores his importance in the business of college basketball.

Jon Scheyer’s coaching journey began when he succeeded the legendary Mike Krzyzewski, who had helmed the Blue Devils for over four decades. As Coach K’s former player, Scheyer understood the Duke culture intimately, and his seamless transition to the head coaching role was applauded by many. He brought a fresh perspective to the team while respecting the traditions that had made Duke a powerhouse in college basketball. Under his leadership, the Blue Devils have continued their tradition of excellence, demonstrating resilience and skill that have led to this moment of triumph.

Throughout the 2024-2025 season, Scheyer’s Blue Devils have been an unstoppable force. His strategic brilliance and ability to develop young talent have been key factors in their success. The team has consistently outperformed expectations, with a blend of seasoned players and impressive newcomers who have bought into Scheyer’s vision and system. His leadership has propelled Duke to the forefront of college basketball once again, and this recognition cements his place as one of the brightest minds in the sport today.

As for the monetary reward, the $9.7 million prize reflects not only the recognition of Scheyer’s coaching skills but also the growing commercial and financial landscape of college basketball. With name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals transforming the NCAA, the financial landscape has changed drastically in recent years. Coaches like Scheyer are no longer just leaders on the sideline but also key figures in a multi-billion-dollar industry. The $9.7 million is a clear indication of the financial stakes in the world of college sports today, where coaches’ successes are often tied to massive financial incentives.

In conclusion, Jon Scheyer’s achievement in winning the 2025 Naismith Coach of the Year Award is a testament to his remarkable coaching abilities and the hard work of his players. His vision, leadership, and unwavering commitment to excellence have led to this historic moment. As he walks away with $9.7 million, it is clear that Scheyer is not just a rising star in college basketball — he is a powerhouse.

The Duke Blue Devils ended their regular season on a high note, securing a crucial win over North Carolina in Chapel Hill. This victory not only solidified their No. 1 seed in the ACC Tournament but also strengthened their case for a top seed in the NCAA Tournament on Selection Sunday.

While Duke’s postseason aspirations remain the primary focus, a larger conversation looms in the background-Cooper Flagg’s future. The freshman sensation has been nothing short of spectacular, leading Duke in multiple statistical categories and firmly establishing himself as the top prospect in the 2025 NBA Draft.

While some reports have suggested that Flagg might consider coming back for a second season, NBA Draft expert Krysten Peek quickly shut down those rumors.

“Anyone who thinks he’s coming back to college for another year (miracle NIL be it) is completely delusional. Cooper’s had an unbelievable season. He’s ready for the NBA. He’s earned that No. 1 slot. Let’s stop the clickbait please,” Peek wrote.

March Madness is approaching, with the first starting with Selection Sunday on March 16, when 68 teams will play in 2025. This year’s headliner is the future first overall pick in this year’s NBA Draft and future National Player of the Year, Cooper Flagg. Flagg will join Kevin Durant, Anthony Davis and Zion Williamson as the only rookies to win the award, but most importantly, he now has Duke as the No.

1 team in the nation. He is the best player on the best team, and he is on pace to become the first freshman in Division I history to lead his team in every major statistical category – points, rebounds, assists, steals and blocks. Flagg ended the season with a win over hated rival North Carolina adding 15 points, nine rebounds, six assists, four block with season averages of 19.4 points, 7.6 rebounds and 4 assists.

During a hotly contested rivalry game against North Carolina, Flagg’s mother, Kelly, made headlines with her passionate response to the hostile behavior of UNC fans. After witnessing her son’s explosive second-half performance, Kelly was seen loudly admonishing Tar Heel fans. She later took to social media to denounce their unsportsmanlike behavior, calling their actions “classless” and highlighting the intense pressure her family, including her 18-year-old son and his teammates, faced throughout the contest.

Flagg’s impact extends beyond individual games. At the beginning of the season with 17 years old, he set an ACC freshman record with a 42-point performance against Notre Dame and routinely posts multiple 20-point double-doubles. His performances have not only vaulted Duke to the top of the AP Top 25 poll, but also positioned the Blue Devils as a formidable March Madness contender. With his sights set on a future as the likely first overall pick in the NBA Draft, expectations are high for his continued success. The mission for Duke is clear: win the program’s first championship in more than a decade and begin the legacy of head coach Jon Scheyer.

Duke is emerging as one of the nation’s elite teams, all eyes are on Cooper Flagg and the upcoming NCAA Tournament. As the pressure mounts, Flagg’s on-court leadership will be crucial to Duke’s deep run in March Madness. The Blue Devils‘ impressive season, bolstered by Flagg’s record-breaking performances, has set the stage for an exciting postseason. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see if he can keep the momentum going and lead Duke to a championship. In a season defined by historic accomplishments and fiery rivalries, the future looks both challenging and bright for Cooper Flagg. As Duke prepares for the high-stakes battle of March Madness, Flagg’s next few games will not only solidify his individual legacy, but could also determine the fate of one of college basketball’s most promising teams.

In an exciting moment for Duke basketball, Cooper Flagg has officially set a new milestone, breaking the program’s all-time games played record. With **138 games and counting**, Flagg’s incredible consistency and dedication have etched his name in the history books of one of college basketball’s most prestigious programs.

Flagg, known for his remarkable skill, leadership, and resilience, has become a cornerstone of the Blue Devils’ success over his career. His commitment to the team and the game has made him a fan favorite, and this record-breaking achievement only adds to his legacy at Duke.

Throughout his time with the Blue Devils, Flagg has played in countless memorable moments, contributing to the team in various ways—whether with electrifying plays on offense, lockdown defense, or his unrelenting work ethic that sets the tone for the team. His journey to 138 games is a testament to his durability and passion for the game, and he’s done so while maintaining a high level of performance in one of the most competitive environments in college sports.

As the Blue Devils prepare for the rest of the season, Flagg’s leadership on and off the court will continue to be invaluable. Fans have been quick to celebrate the achievement, reflecting on some of Flagg’s greatest moments, from game-winning shots to his stellar defensive plays that have made him an unforgettable part of Duke basketball lore.

So, Blue Devils fans, this is your chance to celebrate one of the program’s all-time greats! Drop a 🎉 in the comments to congratulate Cooper Flagg and share your favorite moments from his incredible career at Duke. Here’s to many more milestones for this incredible player!