Jon Scheyer Confident in Duke’s Future, Credits Cooper Flagg and Talented Teammates
Duke head coach Jon Scheyer is optimistic about the future of his program, particularly with the addition of Cooper Flagg, one of the nation’s top high school recruits. Flagg, a 6’8” forward known for his defensive prowess, basketball IQ, and versatility, is set to play a pivotal role in Duke’s upcoming seasons. Scheyer, who is entering his third year as the Blue Devils’ head coach, believes Flagg’s presence will further elevate an already talented roster.
“Cooper is a phenomenal talent, and we’re excited to have him join the program,” Scheyer said in a recent interview. “He’s one of those players who can impact the game in so many ways—defensively, offensively, and in terms of leadership. His work ethic is contagious, and he brings a winning mentality to the team.”
Scheyer’s confidence is not solely based on Flagg’s individual abilities but also on the broader strength of the Blue Devils’ recruiting class. Alongside Flagg, Duke has added several high-level prospects, reinforcing their depth at every position. This influx of talent aligns with Scheyer’s vision of building a balanced team capable of competing for national championships in the coming years.
The Blue Devils’ success in recruiting has been a key focus for Scheyer since taking over for Mike Krzyzewski in 2022. Scheyer’s ability to land top-tier prospects like Flagg is seen as a testament to his recruiting acumen and the continued appeal of Duke as a basketball powerhouse.
Flagg’s game is well-rounded; he is a gifted shot-blocker and rebounder with an advanced offensive game for his age. His ability to stretch the floor and score both inside and from the perimeter makes him an ideal fit for Duke’s fast-paced, versatile system. Scheyer is particularly excited about how Flagg will complement the Blue Devils’ returning talent, including rising stars from last year’s squad.
“Cooper is just one piece of a much larger puzzle,” Scheyer explained. “The returning guys we have—along with some of the new faces—will give us a unique mix of experience and raw potential. I’m confident that with this group, we’re positioned to continue Duke’s tradition of excellence.”
Looking ahead, Scheyer is not only focused on immediate success but on creating a sustainable program that remains at the top of college basketball. With Cooper Flagg and the talented players surrounding him, Duke’s future appears incredibly bright.
