Mike Krzyzewski Addresses Cooper Flagg’s Doable Duke Return or NBA Debut: ‘Be Sensible For You’

The No. 2 Duke Blue Devils are flying excessive with March Madness nearing the horizon, however everybody desires to see if freshman sensation Cooper Flagg returns. The projected No. 1 total decide within the NBA Draft has despatched followers and analysts into shock after teasing an opportunity to return to Durham for his sophomore season.

Before he decides the place to play subsequent, Coach Mike Krzyzewski has some recommendation for the younger cager.

Flagg’s Announcement Hints He Wants to ‘Come Back’

Although extensively thought to be a generational expertise, Flagg confirmed his affection for Duke and faculty hoops lately when he stated, “I want to come back next year.” Although his declaration rocked the world of basketball, few assume it’s going to occur based mostly on his skyrocketing draft prospects.

According to Athlon Sports, the 6-foot-8 participant has been unstoppable throughout his freshman 12 months, dominating all of Duke’s key statistical lists. He is averaging 19.3 factors, 7.6 boards, 4.1 assists, 1.6 steals, and 1.1 blocks, displaying he’s prepared for the subsequent stage.

What Coach Okay Says About Flagg’s Situation

Whereas most high prospects bounce for the NBA as shortly as attainable, the arrival of identify, picture, and likeness (NIL) contracts has leveled the taking part in discipline.

If Duke can assemble a wealthy NIL deal, it would complicate Flagg’s resolution. Still, his estimated NBA contract—probably within the tens of thousands and thousands would stay exponentially richer than any faculty contract.

According to 247Sports, former Duke teaching legend Mike Krzyzewski had his say on the matter, urging Flagg to make an clever selection for his future.

“There are a lot of factors at play, but in Cooper’s case, he should do whatever he feels is best for him,” he stated. “My thing is just be smart. Be smart for you.”

“You only get to do this once, and you’re only going to have the opportunity for a certain amount of time,” Krzyzewski identified. “And, really, you’re talking about generational wealth – real generational wealth – if you do it the right way.”

Duke Thrives With Flagg

As Duke leads the ACC with a 26-3 document, Flagg has been instrumental of their success. In a current 100-65 victory over Florida State, he demonstrated his all-around recreation with 16 factors, six rebounds, 4 assists, and two steals.

With solely two video games remaining within the common season, Flagg remains to be a National Player of the Year candidate on par with Auburn’s Johni Broome. If he will get Duke to the NCAA championship recreation, his place in faculty hoops historical past can be secured—irrespective of if he stays or departs.

Will Flagg Depart or Remain?

Even along with his surprising phrases, the overwhelming view is that Flagg will make the bounce to the NBA Draft. The cash {and professional} alternatives are too good to go up.

But till March Madness passes, there may be at all times the thought of yet one more season at Duke. Blue Devils followers can solely hope for now.