Cooper Flagg Declares for 2025 NBA Draft After Standout Freshman Year at Duke

Cooper Flagg, the highly touted freshman from Duke University, has officially declared for the 2025 NBA Draft, marking a pivotal moment in his basketball career. The 6’8″ forward, who is widely regarded as one of the top prospects in this year’s draft class, made the announcement after a stellar freshman season in which he showcased his exceptional skills on both ends of the court.

Flagg averaged 21.2 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game, quickly establishing himself as one of the most versatile and talented players in college basketball. His ability to score efficiently, rebound, and facilitate for his teammates drew comparisons to NBA superstars such as Kevin Durant and Michael Beasley. These impressive performances have made him a consensus top-three pick in the upcoming NBA Draft.

In a heartfelt message, Flagg expressed his gratitude to Duke, the coaching staff, and his teammates for their support during his brief but impactful time with the Blue Devils. He reflected on how the experience shaped him both as a player and as a person, and shared his excitement for the next chapter of his basketball journey.

With the 2025 NBA Draft set to take place in late June, Flagg is expected to be selected as one of the top picks, with teams like the Washington Wizards, Charlotte Hornets, and Portland Trail Blazers among those likely to show strong interest. His decision to enter the draft positions him to secure a lucrative rookie contract, with early projections suggesting earnings that could reach as high as $11.5 million for his first season.