In a commanding NCAA tournament performance, Duke’s Cooper Flagg led his team to a decisive 89-66 victory over Baylor, strengthening the Blue Devils’ position as a top contender.
Flagg, who only turned 18 in December, showcased why he’s not just the best player on his team but arguably in college basketball amid growing speculation about his NBA future.
Cooper Flagg Guides Duke Past Baylor Amid NBA Draft Buzz
Flagg was a force on the court, contributing 18 points, nine rebounds, six assists, and a block in the win that ended Baylor’s run in the tournament. His teammate Tyrese Proctor added firepower with 25 points, including a stunning 7-of-8 from three-point range. In contrast, Baylor’s VJ Edgecombe, also a top prospect, tallied 16 points and six rebounds but couldn’t match Duke’s intensity.
Despite his youth, having reclassified to join college a year early, Flagg has led Duke with averages of 18.7 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.1 assists, 1.5 steals, and 1.3 blocks per game this season. His performance continues to fuel discussions about whether he will declare for the NBA draft or return to Duke for another year.
NBA Executive Adds to Cooper Flagg Rumors Before Draft
NBA executives and scouts are keenly watching Flagg’s decision. One executive, speaking to ESPN’s Jonathan Givony and Jeremy Woo, expressed mixed feelings about Flagg’s readiness for the professional ranks, stating, “I would be surprised if he stayed, but maybe he’s not ready for the real world yet and just wants to be a kid.”
An Eastern Conference scout added to the conversation, noting the rarity of a potential number one pick returning to college: “I can’t remember a No. 1 pick deciding to go back to school.” Meanwhile, an NBA general manager praised Flagg’s well-rounded game, “He’ll guard all over the floor, can pass, can put it on the floor, and he’ll have better players around him, more space in our league.”
The sports world watches closely as Duke prepares for its next challenge against either Arizona or Oregon. Flagg’s decision will be pivotal, not just for his future but for the franchises hoping to secure a transformational talent. The young star’s choice remains one of the most anticipated storylines as the season progresses.
