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Mike Krzyzewski Sends Strong Message on Cooper Flagg Before NBA Draft

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Max Escarpio | Last updated May 13, 2025 10:27 PM ET

Cooper Flagg is heading to the NBA Draft after a historic season with the Duke Blue Devils.

Flagg led Duke to a 35-4 record, helping the program win the ACC Tournament title and enter the NCAA Tournament as a No. 1 seed.

While they ultimately lost in the Final Four, Duke had a successful season led by their Naismith Player of the Year and Wooden Award winner.

After the season, as Flagg prepares for the NBA Draft, former Duke head coach Mike Krzyzewski spoke with sports analyst Colin Cowherd.

During the show, Krzyzewski revealed his thoughts on Flagg as an NBA prospect, reviewing his freshman season with the Blue Devils.

"I knew he was special, because he had so much talent," Krzyzewski said. "I didn't realize how special he really is. This kid plays every play hard... Cooper is just unique, you know. He's so strong. His legs are so strong and athletically he's gifted. When you add his athletic ability and his competitive attitude, you have a very special guy."

During his freshman season with the Duke Blue Devils, Flagg averaged 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds and 4.2 assists per game.

He was one of the best two-way players in the country, also posting 1.4 steals and 1.4 blocks per game.

After committing to play for Jon Scheyer and Duke as the No. 1 overall player, Flagg may have exceeded expectations.

The projected No. 1 overall pick entered a historic group, establishing himself as one of the greatest players to pass through Duke, alongside legends like JJ Redick, Kyrie Irving and Jayson Tatum.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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