Duke star Cooper Flagg declares for 2025 NBA Draft after historic freshman season

Wooden Award winner and Duke standout Cooper Flagg has officially declared for the 2025 NBA Draft, announcing his decision on Instagram. Widely projected as the No. 1 overall pick, the freshman phenom capped off a remarkable debut season by confirming his leap to the professional ranks ahead of the June 25 draft in New York.

"It was an incredible year, probably the best year of my life," Flagg said in a video post. "I have so much gratitude. I feel so blessed for all the opportunities that I was given. Duke has always been a dream for me, but I'm excited to announce that I'll be entering my name into the 2025 NBA Draft. Today's just the beginning, but I have the brotherhood with me for life."

Flagg, a 6-foot-9 forward, averaged 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds and 4.2 assists across 37 games, helping lead Duke to a Final Four appearance. His stellar performance also earned him ACC Player of the Year honors.

Adding to his accolades, Flagg became only the fourth freshman in history to win the prestigious Naismith Trophy, joining the elite company of Kevin Durant (2007), Anthony Davis (2012), and Zion Williamson (2019).

Flagg follows Duke teammate Kon Knueppel in declaring for the draft. Knueppel, another freshman, is also expected to be selected in the lottery, according to ESPN projections.

SportsLigue