Category: Duke Blue Devils

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!

Duke Blue Bracketology: It Was A Good Week For The Blue

In the ever-changing landscape of college basketball, every week brings fresh storylines, upsets, and surprises that affect the seeding and positioning of teams in March Madness. This week, it was undoubtedly a good one for Duke University, as they solidified their place in the NCAA Tournament picture and looked poised to make a deep run as we head into the postseason.

The Blue Devils entered this week sitting comfortably on the NCAA Tournament bubble. Despite a few inconsistent performances throughout the season, they’ve managed to stay competitive in the ACC, and with their high-profile roster, they were always considered a dangerous team come tournament time. However, the stakes have been rising, and the Blue Devils knew this stretch of games would be crucial in securing a strong spot in the bracket.

The week began with a statement win over a fellow ACC contender, a victory that saw Duke showcase its balanced offense and tough defense. The win not only boosted their resume but also helped the Blue Devils climb in key metrics like the NET rankings, which are crucial when it comes to determining seeding in the tournament. Coach Jon Scheyer’s squad executed the game plan with precision, with standout performances from the team’s top players—most notably from their freshman star, who continued to prove why he’s one of the most talked-about young talents in college basketball this season.

This victory was especially important because it came against a team that was ranked highly in the bracketology projections, a fellow team that could be competing for a similar spot in the field of 68. Beating such an opponent, particularly on the road or in a hostile environment, is often the difference between a 7-seed and an 11-seed, or even a spot on the wrong side of the bubble. For Duke, the win helped solidify their position as a legitimate NCAA Tournament team, while also improving their resume with a quality win.

Beyond the win, the Blue Devils also benefited from favorable results elsewhere in the college basketball landscape. Several teams ranked near Duke in the bracketology projections suffered unexpected losses, which opened up more opportunities for teams like Duke to rise in the standings. With several of the Blue Devils’ remaining opponents either struggling or already out of the tournament picture, Duke looks set to finish the season strong, likely securing a higher seed than many initially expected.

What makes Duke’s position even more exciting is the level of talent they possess. While the team has certainly had its ups and downs this season, the talent on the roster is undeniable. Players like Kyle Filipowski, who has emerged as one of the ACC’s top players, and the high-flying Dereck Lively II, offer Duke a solid foundation to make noise in the tournament. The blend of experience and youth is something that makes them particularly dangerous in March, where unpredictability often rules the day.

Looking ahead, Duke’s remaining schedule isn’t without challenges, but it appears manageable. If they can continue to win and build upon the momentum from this past week, they could end up in a comfortable position in the bracket. As the regular season winds down, every win is important, but with this week’s success, the Blue Devils have given themselves a much-needed boost heading into the final stretch of the season.

As the NCAA Tournament approaches, it’s clear that Duke is positioning itself as a team that could make a deep run. With their blend of talent, coaching, and recent momentum, this was indeed a good week for the Blue Devils—and it could be the start of something much bigger as they continue their march toward March Madness.

Netflix has announced the premiere of a documentary series that offers an intimate look into the Duke Blue Devils women’s basketball program, highlighting its rich legacy and providing viewers with unprecedented behind-the-scenes access. This series promises to shed light on the team’s journey, challenges, and triumphs, offering fans a deeper understanding of what makes the Blue Devils a powerhouse in women’s basketball.

A Legacy of Excellence

The Duke Blue Devils women’s basketball team has a storied history, marked by numerous accolades and a commitment to excellence. Their recent performance in the ACC Tournament further solidifies their status as a dominant force in collegiate basketball. In a thrilling championship game, the Blue Devils showcased their resilience and skill, overcoming a 14-point deficit to secure a 62-48 victory over NC State. Sophomore Oluchi Okananwa delivered an outstanding performance, recording a career-high 22 points and 10 rebounds, earning her the ACC Tournament MVP honors.

Behind the Scenes Access

The upcoming Netflix documentary series aims to provide fans with an exclusive look behind the curtain, capturing the dynamics of the team both on and off the court. Viewers can expect to see candid moments, training sessions, and personal stories that highlight the dedication and hard work that define the Blue Devils. This series offers a unique perspective on the lives of the players and coaching staff, emphasizing the camaraderie and commitment that drive the team’s success.

Celebrating 50 Years of Women’s Basketball at Duke

The 2024-25 season marks the 50th anniversary of Duke women’s basketball, a milestone that the documentary series is poised to commemorate. This golden jubilee reflects five decades of achievements, challenges, and growth, both for the team and the university. The series is expected to delve into the evolution of the program, highlighting key moments and figures that have shaped its history. It’s a celebration of the legacy that has made Duke women’s basketball a source of pride for the university and its supporters.

Anticipation Among Fans

The announcement of the documentary series has generated significant excitement among fans and alumni. Social media platforms are abuzz with discussions and speculations about the content, with many expressing eagerness to relive memorable moments and gain insights into the team’s inner workings. This heightened anticipation underscores the deep connection and pride that the Duke community feels towards its women’s basketball team.

Looking Ahead

As the premiere date approaches, fans can look forward to a series that not only showcases the athletic prowess of the Blue Devils but also humanizes the athletes, presenting them as individuals with aspirations, challenges, and stories that resonate beyond the basketball court. The documentary is set to be a testament to the team’s enduring legacy and its impact on the sport of women’s basketball.

For a glimpse into the team’s journey, fans can explore the “2024-25 Duke Women’s Basketball All-Access” series, which offers additional behind-the-scenes content and highlights from the season.

The forthcoming Netflix documentary series is more than just a film; it’s a celebration of a legacy, a team, and a community that continues to inspire and captivate audiences.

Cooper Flagg, a highly anticipated prospect for the Duke Blue Devils, recently stunned basketball fans with a shocking announcement: he will be leaving the team at the end of the season. This declaration sent ripples through the basketball world, with fans, analysts, and coaches alike reacting to the news of one of the top players in college basketball stepping away from his program after just one season. The news, while unexpected, highlights the evolving dynamics of modern college basketball and the career aspirations of players who often have their sights set on the NBA.

A Rising Star at Duke

Flagg, a 6’9″ forward with a combination of skill, versatility, and athleticism rarely seen in players his age, arrived at Duke with tremendous expectations. He was hailed as a future star not only in college basketball but also as a potential No. 1 pick in the NBA draft. His decision to commit to the Blue Devils was seen as a massive coup for Duke’s basketball program, underlining their continued dominance in college hoops. Flagg had been playing at a high level in prep basketball, garnering attention for his defensive prowess, scoring ability, and high basketball IQ.

As the season progressed, Flagg lived up to the hype. His impressive performances on both ends of the court, including highlight-worthy dunks, blocks, and clutch moments, further solidified his place among the top prospects for the 2025 NBA Draft. His decision to leave Duke, while certainly surprising, is rooted in his overarching goal of advancing his career.

The Announcement

The announcement came during a press conference, where Flagg explained his decision with a mix of gratitude and determination. “I’ve had an incredible experience here at Duke, and I want to thank Coach K, my teammates, and the fans for everything they’ve done for me,” Flagg said. “But I’ve made the decision to move on after this season. I believe it’s the right time for me to take the next step in my career and focus on the next chapter.”

Many were left reeling from the suddenness of the statement, with some fans expressing their disappointment that the promising partnership between Flagg and Duke would be so brief. However, others understood that Flagg’s ambition to enter the NBA and start his professional career is a natural progression for a player of his caliber.

The Implications for Duke

Flagg’s departure at the end of the season raises questions about Duke’s future roster. As a star player, Flagg was expected to be a key piece of the team’s success in the NCAA tournament and a focal point for the Blue Devils’ championship aspirations. His decision to leave forces Coach Jon Scheyer and the rest of the coaching staff to reassess their strategy for the remainder of the season, as they now know that they will need to replace a key contributor in the lineup.

The team’s chemistry may also be affected, with players having to adjust to life without Flagg as a leader on the court. However, Duke has a history of successfully navigating roster changes, and with the talent available, they will likely remain competitive even without Flagg.

What’s Next for Cooper Flagg?

Looking ahead, Flagg is expected to declare for the 2025 NBA Draft, where his potential as a versatile forward with elite defensive skills makes him one of the most coveted prospects. Teams will be eager to add him to their roster, and Flagg’s decision to leave college early is expected to pave the way for him to fulfill his dream of playing professionally.

Though Flagg’s time at Duke may have been short-lived, his legacy as one of the top young players in college basketball will remain. His impact on the program, as well as his development under Coach Scheyer’s guidance, has set the stage for what will likely be a very successful NBA career.

In conclusion, Cooper Flagg’s decision to leave Duke at the end of the season is a significant moment in college basketball, with implications not just for Duke but for the future of Flagg’s career. While his departure may be bittersweet for fans, it marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for one of the most promising young talents in the sport.

Five-Star Forward Nate Ament Flips Commitment to Duke Basketball Over BYU, Kentucky, and Louisville Cardinals

Nate Ament, a highly coveted five-star forward, has made a dramatic shift in his recruitment, flipping his commitment from the University of Louisville to Duke University. Ament, regarded as one of the top prospects in the 2025 class, had previously pledged to Louisville in a highly publicized decision last year. However, in a move that has sent shockwaves through the college basketball landscape, Ament has chosen to take his talents to Durham instead.

The 6-foot-9 forward, known for his versatile scoring ability and defensive prowess, had drawn attention from multiple high-profile programs throughout his recruitment. In addition to Louisville, Ament had been heavily pursued by basketball powerhouses such as Kentucky, BYU, and Duke. His decision to switch his commitment to the Blue Devils marks a major victory for Coach Jon Scheyer and his staff, solidifying Duke’s already formidable presence on the recruiting trail.

The Recruiting Battle

Ament’s recruitment was a long and often unpredictable journey, with several programs positioning themselves as frontrunners. Louisville had been in the mix early, and the program appeared to be a good fit for the talented forward, offering him the chance to play a key role in their rebuilding efforts. However, the allure of playing for one of the most storied programs in college basketball history, in the blue-chip program of Duke, ultimately proved too much for Ament to pass up.

Kentucky, led by the legendary Coach John Calipari, and BYU, which has been making significant strides in college basketball under Coach Mark Pope, were also major players in the recruiting battle. Both programs had invested significant time and resources into pursuing Ament, but it was the prospect of competing at the highest level of college basketball in the ACC, combined with the opportunity to develop under the guidance of Duke’s renowned coaching staff, that seemed to be the deciding factor.

The Duke Impact

Duke’s basketball program, under Coach Scheyer, has continued to recruit at an elite level. The Blue Devils have had a string of successful seasons, and Ament’s commitment adds to a loaded class that already includes several highly ranked players. Scheyer, who took over the program after the legendary Coach Mike Krzyzewski’s retirement, has shown he can recruit top-tier talent while also developing players into NBA-ready stars. Ament is expected to fit seamlessly into Duke’s style of play, which emphasizes fast-paced offense, strong defense, and the development of versatile players capable of playing multiple positions.

Ament’s commitment is not just a win for Duke on the court, but also in terms of recruiting momentum. The Blue Devils’ class is becoming one of the best in the nation, and Ament’s decision adds significant weight to their growing program. His scoring ability, particularly as a versatile forward who can stretch the floor, should give Duke an added dimension as they continue to build toward future championship contention.

A Look Ahead

The Blue Devils are now positioned to be one of the favorites for the 2025-2026 season with Ament in the fold. His versatility and ability to impact both ends of the floor will be crucial to their success in the coming seasons. For Ament, the move to Duke represents not only an opportunity to develop under some of the best minds in college basketball but also the chance to compete for national championships on one of the biggest stages in the sport.

As the 2025 recruiting class continues to take shape, Ament’s decision to commit to Duke is sure to have reverberations throughout college basketball. With one of the best players in the class now set to join their ranks, Duke looks primed for a bright future both in the ACC and on the national stage.

In a significant development in college basketball recruiting, highly sought-after prospect Willdcat Kon Knueppel has reportedly turned down a $4 million deal from the Kentucky Wildcats, choosing instead to commit fully to the Duke Blue Devils. This decision not only underscores Knueppel’s dedication to Duke but also highlights the intense competition among top-tier programs to secure elite talent.

Knueppel’s choice comes at a pivotal time for Duke’s basketball program, which has been under the stewardship of head coach Mike Krzyzewski for decades. The Blue Devils have a storied history, including multiple national championships and a reputation for developing NBA-ready players. Knueppel’s commitment is expected to bolster Duke’s recruiting efforts and maintain its status as a powerhouse in college basketball.

While the specifics of the $4 million offer from Kentucky have not been publicly disclosed, such substantial sums are indicative of the escalating financial stakes in collegiate athletics. The emergence of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) rights has transformed the recruiting landscape, allowing players to profit from their personal brand. This shift has led to competitive bidding among universities, each aiming to attract top talent with lucrative endorsements and sponsorships.

Kon Knueppel’s decision to reject Kentucky’s offer in favor of Duke may be influenced by several factors beyond financial incentives. These could include Duke’s coaching staff, the university’s academic reputation, the opportunity to play in the ACC, and the prospect of continuing the program’s legacy of excellence. Additionally, the recent hiring of Manny Diaz as Duke’s head football coach has injected new energy and vision into the athletic department, potentially enhancing the overall student-athlete experience.

This development also sheds light on the broader implications of NIL in college sports. While financial offers can be enticing, many athletes are weighing their options based on a combination of factors, including personal growth, team culture, and long-term career prospects. As the landscape continues to evolve, universities will need to balance competitive offers with genuine support for their athletes’ holistic development.

In conclusion, Willdcat Kon Knueppel’s choice to commit to the Duke Blue Devils, despite a substantial financial offer from Kentucky, is a testament to the multifaceted considerations that influence recruiting decisions in today’s college sports environment. It underscores the importance of aligning athletic pursuits with personal and professional aspirations, ensuring that student-athletes thrive both on and off the field.

 

Wildcat Cooper Flagg Rejects $4 Million Deal from LSU and Commits to Duke

In a groundbreaking move that has sent ripples through the world of college basketball, Wildcat Cooper Flagg, the highly touted recruit from Maine, has turned down a staggering $4 million offer from LSU, signaling his full commitment to the Duke Blue Devils. The decision, which comes at a critical juncture in his career, has placed the spotlight on both Flagg and the program he has chosen to join under legendary head coach Mike Krzyzewski’s successor, Jon Scheyer.

Flagg, who is considered one of the top prospects in the 2025 recruiting class, had been courted by several elite programs across the country, with LSU emerging as a significant player in the recruiting race. According to sources close to the recruitment process, LSU had offered Flagg a lucrative $4 million NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deal as part of their efforts to secure his commitment. However, the young athlete, who has quickly become a household name in the basketball world, opted to reject the tempting financial offer in favor of pursuing a different kind of opportunity at Duke.

The decision to reject such a large sum of money may seem unconventional to many, especially given the current climate of college basketball, where NIL deals are becoming increasingly influential in recruitment. However, Flagg’s commitment to Duke is rooted in more than just financial incentives. His decision reflects his belief in the values of the Blue Devils program and his desire to be part of a legacy that emphasizes development, discipline, and winning at the highest level.

Duke’s pitch to Flagg centered around its rich basketball tradition, the development of elite players, and the opportunity to play under the tutelage of one of the best coaching staffs in the country. Under Jon Scheyer, who took over the helm after Coach K’s retirement, Duke has continued to recruit top-tier talent and maintain its reputation as one of the premier programs in the nation. Flagg, who is known for his incredible versatility and basketball IQ, will fit perfectly into the system, adding to Duke’s already impressive list of recruits.

Manny Diaz, the Duke assistant coach who has played a key role in the recruitment of Flagg, was instrumental in securing this commitment. Diaz, who has a reputation for developing players and building strong relationships with recruits, helped Flagg see the potential of a Duke education both on and off the court. His pitch was not only about basketball but also about Duke’s emphasis on academic excellence and life after sports, something that Flagg values deeply.

Flagg’s decision has far-reaching implications for college basketball. His commitment to Duke strengthens the Blue Devils’ position as one of the dominant forces in the sport. Additionally, it sends a message to the rest of the recruiting world that a player’s decision-making process is no longer solely based on money but rather on the holistic development and the prestige of a program.

The rejection of a $4 million deal from LSU highlights a new era of college basketball recruiting, where student-athletes like Flagg are increasingly making decisions based on fit, coaching, and long-term growth, rather than immediate financial gain. This shift could very well shape the future of college athletics, and Flagg’s commitment to Duke may be the beginning of a broader trend in which elite players prioritize legacy and development over money.

Ultimately, Flagg’s decision to commit to Duke instead of taking the hefty LSU deal represents a significant moment in college basketball, underscoring the increasing complexity of recruitment in the NIL era and the evolving priorities of top-tier recruits.

The Duke Blue Devils men’s basketball program has long been known for its tradition of excellence, and the announcement that Otega Oweh has won the prestigious Oscar Robertson Trophy Midseason Award only strengthens the program’s reputation. This award, named after one of the greatest players in basketball history, honors the best player in the country and is a significant milestone in Oweh’s career. It serves as recognition for his exceptional performances and establishes him as one of the top players in college basketball.

Otega Oweh, a standout player for the Duke Blue Devils, has made a huge impact on the college basketball landscape this season. The Oscar Robertson Trophy is awarded by the United States Basketball Writers Association (USBWA) and is one of the most coveted individual honors in college basketball. It is given to the player who has shown excellence in all aspects of the game, including scoring, defense, leadership, and overall contribution to their team’s success. Oweh’s name has been on the lips of many analysts, coaches, and fans all season long as his performances have led to victories, highlighted by his consistency and determination on the court.

Oweh’s rise to prominence is a testament to his hard work and development. Coming into the season, there were high expectations for the young star, and he has more than lived up to them. Known for his combination of size, speed, and basketball IQ, Oweh has dominated games with his scoring ability, rebounding prowess, and leadership. His scoring has been nothing short of spectacular, regularly putting up big numbers on the scoreboard, but it’s his all-around contributions that have truly made him stand out. Whether it’s hitting clutch shots, making key defensive stops, or setting up his teammates for easy baskets, Oweh’s game is multifaceted.

This season, Oweh has been the focal point of Duke’s offense. His ability to create his own shot, drive to the basket with power and finesse, and hit from beyond the arc has made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. But what sets him apart is his unselfishness and willingness to involve his teammates. He has become a leader both on and off the court, always encouraging his teammates and setting a strong example with his work ethic. It is clear that Oweh’s influence extends beyond his individual numbers, as his presence elevates the play of everyone around him.

While individual accolades are a great honor, Oweh’s focus remains on team success. He is aware that individual recognition is only possible because of the team’s collective effort, and that mindset has been a key reason for his success. Oweh’s unselfishness, combined with his fierce competitive drive, makes him the kind of player who not only shines in the spotlight but also elevates his teammates to new heights.

Duke’s success this season is undoubtedly tied to Oweh’s stellar play. As the Blue Devils push deeper into the season with hopes of making a deep run in the NCAA tournament, Oweh’s leadership and performance will continue to be crucial. Winning the Oscar Robertson Trophy Midseason Award is just the beginning for this exceptional player, and it marks a major milestone in what promises to be an illustrious career. As he continues to play at an elite level, there is no doubt that Oweh will remain one of the top players to watch in college basketball for the remainder of the season and beyond.

 

The Duke basketball program had only two national titles to its name the last time the ACC Coach of the Year trophy landed in Durham.

Zero 2024-25 Duke basketball rotation pieces are leftovers from Mike Krzyzewski’s reign. No, on his own with the help of his staff, Jon Scheyer has at one point reeled in each of the talents for his third season at the helm.

On Sunday night, ahead of ACC accolade announcements this week, Scheyer’s former Duke teammate and fellow 2010 national champion, sharpshooter Andre Dawkins, took to social media to argue just how clear it should be that there’s no one more deserving of the ACC Coach of the Year distinction:

Coach K won the award five times. That said, his last was 25 years ago, despite the fact that the program’s national championship count grew from two to five across his next 22 years in charge before handing the reins over to Scheyer.

The 37-year-old Jon Scheyer finished 27-9 in each of his first two campaigns as head coach of the Blue Devils.

So, counting his 28-3 record entering postseason action this go-round, he’s 82-21 overall (79.6 percent), needing only for Duke to extend its eight-game winning streak to 10 to boast an 80.0 career winning percentage.

Duke basketball, the conference’s outright regular season champ thanks to Saturday night’s 82-69 road win over archrival UNC, is now gearing up for an ACC Tournament quarterfinal clash against either No. 8 seed Georgia Tech or No. 9 seed Virginia in Charlotte’s Spectrum Center at noon ET Thursday (ESPN or ESPN2).