“Emotional Goodbye: Duke Star Declares for 2025 NBA Draft with Heartfelt Message to Blue Devils Nation
Apr 3, 2025; San Antonio, TX, USA; Duke Blue Devils forward Cooper Flagg (2) is interviewed during open locker room at Alamodome. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images
From Coach Scheyer and the entire coaching staff, to the university leaders, and most of all—the passionate, unwavering fans—thank you.
Thank you for embracing me, for believing in me, and for standing with me through every high and low. As I take the next step in my basketball journey, declaring for the 2025 NBA Draft, it’s your support that gives me strength.
When I first committed to Duke, I knew I was joining a legendary program. What I didn’t expect was how much it would truly feel like home. The first time I walked through campus, the first time I put on the Duke jersey, the first time I heard Cameron Indoor explode with energy—it was electric. Every practice, every game, every moment spent with my teammates became part of something bigger. You didn’t just support me—you welcomed me into a family.
Coach Scheyer, thank you for seeing something in me from the beginning. You trusted me, challenged me, and taught me to lead with humility and heart. You gave me a stage to grow not just as a player, but as a person. Your mentorship will guide me far beyond the hardwood.
To the Duke staff and university officials—you built an environment where I could grow in every part of my life. On the court, in the classroom, and everywhere in between, you gave me the foundation to be my best self. That’s something I’ll carry with me always.
To the fans—what can I even say? You made every game feel like magic. Your energy, your loyalty, your love for this team—it’s unforgettable. You didn’t just cheer us on, you lifted us up. I’ll always be proud to say I played for the best fans in college basketball.
Now, as I chase my lifelong dream and enter the NBA Draft, know this: this isn’t goodbye. Duke is forever part of me. The lessons, the relationships, the memories—they’re all coming with me. I hope to make you proud in the league, and I’ll always wear the Duke name with pride, integrity, and gratitude