“Cooper Flagg Drops Unexpected Statement About His Future, But Don’t Count on It Just Yet”
Cooper Flagg’s recent comments have raised eyebrows, but before you get too excited, remember: he’s 18, and 18-year-olds often change their minds. Still, during an interview with The Athletic, Flagg surprised many by saying, “I want to come back next year” and expressing his dream to play at the highest level in college, competing for a national championship.
The possibility of Flagg teaming up with Carlos Boozer on the same front line is tantalizing, but the question remains: could Flagg really turn down the NBA for another year at Duke?
While Zion Williamson had a similar dilemma and was urged to go pro, Flagg could be in a unique position. With NIL deals potentially bringing him millions, could his earnings rival what he’d make as an NBA rookie? Reports say he’s currently earning about $4.7 million, but a sophomore year at Duke could see that number soar.
The idea of a bidding war between brands like Nike and Adidas for Flagg’s signature, alongside Boozer, is a real possibility. Plus, with his ties to New Balance, he’s clearly thinking differently than many prospects.
Though the chances of Flagg returning to college remain slim, it’s fun to imagine how dominant his team could be if he does. And if he sticks around, he’d be Duke’s most beloved player since Shane Battier.
