Happy 18th Birthday to Duke Blue Freshman Cooper Flagg: Duke Coach Jon Scheyer Mentions 3 Changes Flagg Should Expect At His New Age
DURHAM, NC — On the heels of an exciting and memorable victory for the Duke Blue Devils over Georgia Tech, all eyes were on freshman phenom Cooper Flagg as he celebrated his 18th birthday. The highly anticipated recruit, who is regarded as one of the top young basketball talents in the country, marked the milestone birthday with family, friends, and the passionate Duke fanbase.
While Flagg’s arrival to Duke is already a major story in college basketball, the celebrations on his special day were complemented by some sage advice from Duke head coach Jon Scheyer. Scheyer, who has led the Blue Devils since 2022, offered his reflections on the changes Flagg can expect as he transitions into adulthood and prepares for the next chapter of his basketball journey.
During a post-game interview, Scheyer addressed the changes that come with turning 18, particularly for a young athlete like Flagg, who is about to take the leap into one of the most prestigious college basketball programs in the nation.
“Turning 18 is a big milestone for any young athlete,” Scheyer said with a smile, acknowledging Flagg’s birthday. “Cooper is going to experience a few significant changes now that he’s officially an adult, and I think it’s important for him to be prepared.”
Here are the three key changes Jon Scheyer highlighted for Cooper Flagg as he embraces his new age:
1. Increased Responsibility and Independence
“Now that Cooper is 18, he’s officially an adult in the eyes of the NCAA and the basketball world,” Scheyer explained. “That means a lot more responsibility. Not just on the court, but off it too. He’ll be expected to make his own decisions about his training, his lifestyle, and his academics. It’s all part of the growth process.”
Scheyer emphasized that Flagg will need to balance his newfound independence with the discipline and focus required at Duke. With an intense academic and athletic schedule, the Blue Devils’ coaching staff will expect Flagg to take ownership of his development as both a player and a person.
2. The Spotlight Gets Bigger
“Cooper is already one of the most talked-about prospects in the country,” Scheyer said. “Turning 18 means that the attention around him will only intensify. The media, fans, and scouts will be keeping a closer eye on him, and he will need to handle that pressure with grace.”
Scheyer spoke about how important it will be for Flagg to stay focused on what he can control: his performance on the court and his growth as a person. Duke basketball has always been a high-profile program, and with Flagg’s status as one of the top young players in the game, the spotlight is sure to shine brighter as he embarks on his college career.
3. Transition to Elite-Level Competition
“At 18, Cooper will officially be a part of the college basketball elite,” Scheyer said. “Turning 18 means that the competition is going to be even tougher. He’s coming from a high school environment where he was the best player on the floor every night. At Duke, and at the college level, every player is incredibly talented. It’s going to be a major transition for him, but one that I know he’s ready for.”
Scheyer emphasized the importance of adapting to the faster, more physical style of play that comes with NCAA Division I basketball. He also spoke highly of Flagg’s work ethic, suggesting that he’s well-prepared to handle the demands that come with being a top-tier college athlete.
As for Cooper Flagg, the teenager seemed excited yet humbled by the remarks, acknowledging the tremendous opportunity ahead of him while maintaining his trademark focus. “I’m looking forward to the challenges ahead,” Flagg said after the game. “Turning 18 feels special, but I know there’s a lot of work to do. I’m ready to take on whatever comes next, both on and off the court.”
Duke fans, who have been eagerly awaiting Flagg’s debut with the Blue Devils, are undoubtedly thrilled about his potential. Scheyer’s insights into the changes Flagg will face as he moves into adulthood only heighten the excitement surrounding his arrival.
As Cooper Flagg embraces the next chapter of his life, he will do so under the bright lights of Duke University, surrounded by the unwavering support of his teammates, coaches, and fans. With 18 now behind him, the sky seems to be the limit for one of the most exciting young talents in college basketball.
