Durham, NC — April 10, 2025 — The college basketball world is reeling after the Duke Blue Devils made headlines by officially parting ways with freshman phenom **Cooper Flagg**, once hailed as the face of the program’s future. The announcement comes amid swirling rumors of NBA Draft ambitions, behind-the-scenes negotiations, and growing whispers of locker room tension.
Flagg, a 6’8″ forward from Maine, entered Duke with the weight of enormous expectations. Dubbed the “next big thing” in college hoops, he was a consensus No. 1 recruit and the cornerstone of Duke’s 2024-25 campaign. But after a rollercoaster season filled with flashes of brilliance and moments of inconsistency, Duke’s coaching staff has made the bold move to replace him in their draft and development plans.
Jayden Cross Steps In
The Blue Devils wasted no time in pivoting, securing a commitment from **Jayden Cross**, a top-5 national recruit known for his length, defensive prowess, and high basketball IQ. Cross had initially committed to Kentucky but reopened his recruitment last month — a move that, in hindsight, may have signaled the shifting tides at Duke.
“Jayden brings us the versatility, maturity, and leadership we’re looking for heading into the next phase of the program,” said head coach Jon Scheyer in a press conference this morning. “We are building a culture of commitment and unity. This move aligns with that vision.”
What Happened to Flagg?
While neither Flagg nor his camp has commented publicly, sources close to the situation suggest that his departure was a mix of strategic career planning and internal disagreements over his role and development trajectory. Some speculate Flagg has his sights set on preparing for the 2025 NBA Draft, bypassing another year of college basketball in favor of private training and professional showcases.
“He’s got the tools, no question,” one NBA scout told ESPN. “But whether or not he’s ready for the leap is something scouts are still debating.”
There’s also speculation about potential overseas or G League opportunities, which could allow Flagg to develop in a more professional setting before entering the draft.
Impact on Duke’s Future
With Flagg out of the picture, Duke’s identity moving forward will likely shift dramatically. The team now leans on players like Jayden Cross and sophomore guard Kyle Foster to carry the load — both of whom bring intensity and hunger to the floor.
Fans are divided. Some are disappointed by the sudden end to the Flagg era, while others are relieved the team is taking decisive action to refocus.
“This is Duke,” one fan tweeted. “We don’t rebuild. We reload.”
What’s Next for Flagg?
All signs point to an announcement from Flagg within the next week. Whether he declares for the NBA Draft, joins an overseas club, or signs with the G League Ignite, one thing is certain: the Cooper Flagg story is far from over — it’s just taking a different path.
