As a projected No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, Duke Blue Devils superstar Cooper Flagg knows his future is set for now. However, call it a cruel joke, or an intervention by destiny, human brains are hard wired for adventure, and Cooper seems like the closest example at hand. Not one to stay within the boundaries of the ordinary, it’s almost as if the 18-year-old is seeking out adventures that would stimulate his mind, even risking a massive $400 million in the process. But why? Well, because he can.

Debuting for Jon Scheyer’s arsenal in November last year in a game vs Maine Black Bears, Flagg compelled every single spectator to stop in their tracks with his sheer execution—we’re talking 18 points, seven rebounds, five assists and three steals in 30 minutes of action in the 96-62 wins, and finishing as the team leader in rebounds and steals. Having planted the seed of expectation in the fandom, the only way was up. And, boy, did he execute.

As the season concluded, the star player is leading the Duke in points (19.5), rebounds (7.7), assists (4.0) and blocks (1.3) per game, while barely ranking behind teammate Maliq Brown in steals (1.5). What’s more? Fans had launched into what USA Today called “hyperbolic praise” even before Flagg 0fficially debuted. Before the US team embarked on a trip to Paris, Flagg was one of the 15 players selected to train with the Olympic roster, that included superstars like Stephen Curry, and LeBron James. In brief, as per journalist Jeff Zillgitt, “Cooper played like he belongs and acted like he belongs.”

The youngster not only made two 3-pointers over All-NBA Defense selection Anthony Davis, a short turnaround jumper over Jrue Holiday, but also pulled off a putback plus an and-one over Bam Adebayo. Couple that with a stunning show for the Dukes, and it’s amply understandable why fans are writhing in pain at the thought of Cooper leaving for the higher echelons of the NBA.

“When you look at some of our special guys. Paolo (Banchero) was Paolo. Zion was Zion. Jayson (Tatum) is Jayson. I think he’s proven — he’s Cooper. That to me is the marking of a great player. At this point, he’s up there with any of them, but obviously he’s got a long way to go,” said Scheyer. While Flagg is expected to land with the Washington Wizards as per a mock draft by Sports Illustrated, many NBA execs have also talked about the possibility of the San Antonio Spurs adding him to their roster in Victor Wembenyama’s absence for the rest of the season owing to the French star’s deep vein thrombosis in his right shoulder. But where does Flagg want to go? Well, he’s currently in two minds about it.

Speaking to The Athletic‘s Brendan Quinn and Brendan Marks, the player remarked earlier this month, “S***, I want to come back next year.” And looks like he has a chance to do so, thanks to some dedicated fans…

In a twisted turn of events—in the best way—one anonymous Blue Devils alumni went so far as to stake a whopping $25,000 on Fanstake. For those unaware, Fanstake is a platform that lets fans step in and have a real say in keeping their favorite athletes around. By pledging financial support toward NIL deals, fans can actually help influence where players go and, more importantly, where they stay! And don’t worry, if your stake doesn’t work out, you’re not losing out any money. If the player doesn’t take the deal, you get every penny back!

Call it delusion, call it optimism, but you’ve got to respect how much Duke fans love Cooper Flagg. And hey, maybe that’s exactly why the freshman is even entertaining the idea of coming back next season! Because if money was the priority, why wouldn’t he just head straight to the NBA?

Under the current NBA rules, rookie scale extensions can go up to 30% of a team’s salary cap. According to Front Office Sports’ calculations, Flagg’s max rookie extension could be a jaw-dropping $398.5 million over five years, which would put him at around $80 million per season!

Only time will tell if Cooper Flagg actually sticks around for another season, but for now, there’s only one thing on his mind—bringing Duke its sixth championship! With March Madness creeping closer, every game counts.

What’s next for Cooper Flagg and the Blue Devils

With only five games left in the regular season, Duke is cruising at the top of the ACC with a 15-1 conference record and a 23-3 overall mark. Ranked third in the country, they’ve certainly earned their spot, but let’s be real, dominating a weak ACC doesn’t exactly paint the full picture of what they’ll be up against come March.

They travel to New York to play Illinois Fighting Illini at the iconic Madison Square Garden on 23rd February. All eyes will be on Cooper Flagg who will look to continue to build his case for the NPOY as well. Further considering Illinois hasn’t won 3 of its last 5 games, it’s a good opportunity to dominate.

Naturally, ESPN gives Duke an 80% chance of coming away with a win. But they will need to be aware of freshman guard Kasparas Jakucionis who is averaging 15.6 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 4.8 assists while shooting 46.9% from the field.

Flagg’s desire to return next year is certainly the talk of the town, but one which isn’t likely to happen. Last few weeks may be all that the college hoops fans have got left to savor and Flagg & Co., better make it count.