“WHAT I KNOW” – Duke’s Jon Scheyer Breaks Silence on Cooper Flagg Deal and Rumored Transfer Talks with Rivals
Duke Blue Devils head coach Jon Scheyer has finally broken his silence amid swirling rumors about Cooper Flagg’s potential departure and alleged interest from powerhouse rivals such as Alabama, Tennessee, and others. In a candid and somewhat cryptic statement, Scheyer addressed the situation head-on, reassuring fans that talks are ongoing — and optimistic.
“What I know is that it’s all being handled internally, and I believe it will come through,” Scheyer told reporters when asked about Flagg’s current status and rumored negotiations surrounding a new NIL deal to secure his stay in Durham. “There’s a lot of noise out there, but we’re focused on what matters — building around Cooper and making the right decisions for him and the program.”
The comment comes in response to a media storm sparked by recent reports claiming that multiple high-profile programs have made aggressive efforts to poach Flagg through lucrative NIL offers and promises of expanded roles. The speculation reached a fever pitch when anonymous insiders claimed Alabama and Tennessee had entered serious talks with Flagg’s camp.
However, Scheyer’s calm and confident tone suggests Duke still holds the upper hand — and that a deal to keep the projected No. 1 NBA draft pick in blue and white is within reach. “He’s an incredible talent, and more importantly, an incredible person. We’ve had deep conversations, not just about basketball, but about what kind of legacy he wants to leave,” Scheyer added.
Flagg, who took the college basketball world by storm during his freshman year, has become one of the sport’s most recognizable faces — and a key pillar in Scheyer’s vision for Duke’s future. Losing him to a rival would be a seismic shift, not just for the program but for college hoops as a whole.
Still, Scheyer seems unfazed by the mounting pressure. “We’ve always believed in loyalty and the value of continuity. We’re confident that Cooper shares those values,” he said.
As the rumors continue to swirl, one thing is certain — the ball is in motion. Whether Cooper Flagg chooses to stay at Duke or entertain a blockbuster transfer, fans are holding their breath. But if Scheyer’s words are any indication, Duke Nation may still have reason to hope.
