Cooper Flagg and the Future of College Basketball: A Game-Changing Decision?

The world of college basketball is buzzing with excitement as Cooper Flagg, the projected No. 1 pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, has hinted at the possibility of returning to Duke for another season. This revelation has sparked a wave of speculation and hope among fans and coaches alike, as Flagg’s decision could have far-reaching implications for the sport. With the men’s game facing challenges in capturing the same level of attention as the women’s game—thanks in part to stars like Caitlin Clark—Illinois coach Brad Underwood believes Flagg’s return could be a turning point. "If he stayed in school, he would be the face of college basketball and elevate basketball to the levels Caitlin Clark did on the female side," Underwood said during an appearance on OutKick’s "Don’t @ Me" with Dan Dakich. Flagg’s talent, charisma, and relatability make him the perfect candidate to reignite passion for the men’s game.

The Talent and the Hype: Cooper Flagg’s Rise to Prominence

Cooper Flagg, a 6-foot-9 forward for Duke, has been nothing short of sensational this season. Averaging 19.7 points and 7.7 rebounds per game, he has been a dominant force for the No. 3 team in the country. His shooting percentages—48.6% from the floor and 36.6% from three-point range—highlight his versatility and skill. Flagg’s performances have solidified his status as one of the most exciting young players in the sport. Despite his youth (he turned 18 just four days before Christmas and reclassified to graduate high school a year early), Flagg has carried himself with a confidence and maturity that has drawn comparisons to all-time greats like Larry Bird. "He’s got that Larry Bird swag," Underwood noted, praising Flagg’s ability to back up his confidence with elite play.

Brad Underwood on Flagg’s Potential Impact

Brad Underwood, head coach at Illinois, has been vocal about the potential benefits of Flagg staying at Duke. "I think he’s a super talent. I think he would be great for the NBA," Underwood admitted, but he also emphasized the unique opportunity Flagg has to become a household name in college basketball. "If he stayed in school, he would be the face of college basketball," Underwood said. His reasoning is clear: Flagg’s charisma, combined with his on-court brilliance, could make him a transcendent figure, much like Caitlin Clark has become for the women’s game. With the men’s game struggling to retain viewers in an era dominated by NIL deals, transfers, and one-and-done players, Flagg’s return could help restore excitement and stability to the sport.

Flagg’s Perspective: Weighing the Decision

For now, Flagg seems to be enjoying his time at Duke, despite the intense scrutiny surrounding his future. "S—, I want to come back next year," he said in a recent interview, expressing a desire to savor the college experience. "I still feel like a kid," he admitted. "This is the only way I’ve ever known college. That’s how I see it. I really wouldn’t know how kids felt before, and if this feels different, if this feels more like being a professional." Flagg’s candor is refreshing, and his comments highlight the challenges of balancing college life with the pressures of being a top NBA prospect. While the allure of the professional league is undeniable, Flagg seems to value the growth and camaraderie that come with another year in Durham.

The Rarity of Flagg’s Situation

It’s worth noting just how unusual it would be for a player of Flagg’s caliber to return to school. In the era of one-and-done players, top prospects rarely hesitate to jump to the NBA. Flagg’s situation is even more unique given his age—he started the college season as a 17-year-old and only recently turned 18. His ability to thrive in such circumstances speaks to his talent and maturity, but it also raises questions about whether he’s emotionally and mentally prepared for the leap to the NBA. Underwood, for one, hopes that Flagg is making the decision that’s best for him, not just for the sport. "I always hope with young kids that when they go, it’s the right mental space for them to go," he said. "Those are big boy locker rooms they’re walking into."

The Bigger Picture: What Flagg’s Decision Could Mean for College Basketball

Ultimately, Cooper Flagg’s decision is about more than just his own future—it’s about the health and trajectory of college basketball. With the men’s game facing an identity crisis in the wake of NIL deals and transfers, Flagg’s return could help stabilize the sport and bring back fans who have drifted away. His presence would undoubtedly make Duke a must-watch team next season, and his star power could inspire other top players to reconsider their decisions. While the NBA will always be the ultimate destination for elite talent, Flagg’s potential return serves as a reminder of the magic that can happen when young stars choose to stay in school and chase greatness at the collegiate level. As Flagg himself said, "I feel pretty normal," but his journey is anything but ordinary—and the sport is better for it.