Durham, NC — The wait is over. In a powerful and emotional statement, Cooper Flagg, the nation’s top basketball prospect, made it official: he’s closing one chapter of his young career and beginning another with the storied Duke Blue Devils.
“I am done here,” Flagg said, his voice steady but filled with emotion during a press conference that drew national attention. “I’m ready for the next step, ready to represent Duke with everything I’ve got.”
For months, speculation had swirled around Flagg’s future. Would he declare early? Would he take his talents to another college basketball powerhouse? But in the end, his decision to join Duke felt almost inevitable — a perfect match between a player brimming with generational talent and a program synonymous with greatness.
Flagg’s journey to this moment has been nothing short of extraordinary. Hailing from Maine, he became a household name before even finishing high school, dazzling scouts and fans alike with his rare combination of size, skill, and basketball IQ. Standing 6’9” with the ability to play anywhere on the court, Flagg has drawn comparisons to some of the NBA’s biggest stars — but even those comparisons might not fully capture his unique blend of intensity and grace.
Throughout his high school career, Flagg dominated at every level, collecting accolades at a historic pace. His resume includes a gold medal with USA Basketball, MVP honors at elite showcases, and breathtaking performances that often left crowds and coaches alike in awe. Yet, despite the bright spotlight, Flagg has remained grounded, crediting his family, coaches, and teammates for keeping him focused.
Now, he turns his attention to Duke, where expectations will be sky-high from the moment he steps on campus. And he wouldn’t have it any other way.
“I chose Duke because of the culture, the coaching staff, and the legacy,” Flagg said. “Coach Scheyer believed in me, not just as a player but as a person. I’m excited to be part of something bigger than myself.”
Duke head coach Jon Scheyer, who is entering his third year leading the program, couldn’t hide his excitement about the newest addition to his roster.
“Cooper is the kind of player who changes a program,” Scheyer said. “He’s talented, he’s tough, he’s driven. But most importantly, he’s a winner. We’re thrilled to welcome him into the Duke family.”
With Flagg in the fold, Duke immediately solidifies its status as a national title contender for next season. His arrival is expected to elevate not just the Blue Devils’ already strong roster but also the intensity and competitiveness of practices and games alike. His versatility will allow Duke to play multiple styles, creating matchup nightmares for opponents.
For Flagg, the move also represents more than just basketball. It’s a chance to continue growing — as a leader, a student, and a young man preparing for an eventual professional career. Duke’s rich history of player development, combined with its national exposure, positions him perfectly for the next stages of his journey.
Fans, meanwhile, are already buzzing with anticipation. Tickets for Duke games are expected to be even more in demand, and “Flagg Fever” is already sweeping across Durham and beyond. Social media exploded after his announcement, with former Duke stars and NBA players alike welcoming him to the Blue Devil brotherhood.
As he wrapped up his press conference, Flagg reflected briefly on the road that brought him here and the exciting future ahead.
“I’m thankful for everything that got me to this point,” he said. “But now it’s time to work. It’s time to chase championships. Let’s get it.”
With those words, Cooper Flagg officially turned the page — leaving behind one chapter of greatness and stepping boldly into the bright, blue future of Duke basketball.
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