COOPER FLAGG: I’m Motivated by Relationships, Not Money, When it Comes to Staying with the Duke Blue Devils
From the moment I first stepped onto the basketball court, I knew that my love for the game went far beyond the pursuit of fame or fortune. My motivations have always been rooted in relationships — the people who surround me, push me, and help me grow. It’s not the money, the recognition, or the spotlight that drives me forward; it’s the bonds I build along the way, the camaraderie, and the family-like atmosphere that I value most. This is exactly why I have always been drawn to Duke University and the Blue Devils basketball program.
Duke has always held a special place in my heart. It’s not just about the tradition, the championships, or the elite status of the program. It’s about the people. The coaches, teammates, and staff members at Duke understand what it means to be part of something bigger than yourself. Coach K, who built the legacy at Duke, exemplified the importance of creating a culture where relationships come first. That ethos has been carried forward by the entire program, and it’s something that deeply resonates with me.
When I think of Duke, I think about the sense of family that permeates every aspect of the program. It’s the bond I share with my teammates, the way we work together to accomplish something greater than any individual could achieve alone. It’s the relationships with the coaching staff, who truly care about my growth both as a player and as a person. At Duke, you don’t just learn how to play basketball at the highest level; you learn how to be a leader, how to work with others, and how to represent something much larger than yourself.
This is why staying with Duke — for me — is about more than just the next step in my career. It’s about growing in an environment where I can continue to build these meaningful relationships and contribute to a program that values integrity, hard work, and unity. I have always been inspired by the way the Blue Devils prioritize these qualities, and I know that by staying here, I’ll continue to surround myself with the best mentors, the best teammates, and the best friends I could ask for.
In the end, it’s not about the money or the accolades. It’s about the connections you make, the lessons you learn, and the people who help shape you into the person you are becoming. My loyalty to Duke goes beyond basketball; it’s about the sense of belonging, purpose, and growth that this incredible program offers. That’s why I have always loved Duke, and why I will continue to pour my heart and soul into this program as I move forward.
