Cooper Flagg, the talented forward from the Duke Blue Devils, has officially announced his decision to enter the 2025 NBA Draft. The 18-year-old made the announcement through a heartfelt video on Instagram, expressing gratitude for his experiences at Duke and the opportunities he received during his freshman year, where he averaged 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game. His contributions were pivotal in leading the Blue Devils to a Final Four appearance, solidifying his status as a top prospect.

Flagg's impressive performance throughout the season earned him the John R. Wooden Award, recognizing him as college basketball's most outstanding player—a distinction achieved by only three other freshmen in the award's history. His journey included not only a standout collegiate season but also participation in the USA Select Team, where he practiced against the men’s national basketball team in preparation for the upcoming Paris Olympics.

Despite previously hinting at the possibility of returning to Duke for another season, Flagg has decided to pursue his professional career. He had expressed a desire to continue developing his skills within the college basketball environment, stating, “I still feel like a kid. This is the only way I’ve ever known college.” However, the lure of the NBA and the chance to be a high draft pick ultimately influenced his decision.

The NBA Draft is scheduled for June 25, and Flagg is widely expected to be selected first overall. The teams with the best odds to secure the top pick and possibly draft Flagg are the Utah Jazz, the Washington Wizards, and the Charlotte Hornets, each holding a 14% chance to win the lottery.

As Flagg embarks on this new chapter in his basketball career, he leaves behind a legacy at Duke that reflects both his talent and his commitment to the game. His journey is just beginning, and fans will be eagerly watching to see how he transitions to the professional level.