Now Official: Transfer Portal Takes Shocking Twist as Duke’s Star Cooper Flagg Commits to Kentucky
In a stunning twist that has sent shockwaves through the college basketball world, Cooper Flagg, the No. 1 high school recruit of the 2023 class and a rising star at Duke, has officially committed to transfer to Kentucky.
This unexpected move instantly elevates the Wildcats’ national standing and signals that Mark Pope’s era in Lexington is not just about rebuilding—it’s about contending.
Flagg, a 6-foot-9 forward from Maine, took the college basketball world by storm during his freshman year at Duke. Known for his elite athleticism, high basketball IQ, and two-way dominance, Flagg averaged 16.2 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per game. His shot-blocking ability and perimeter versatility made him one of the most feared defenders in the country. Yet, despite a promising freshman campaign, sources close to Flagg indicated he was looking for a new opportunity to fully expand his game—and found it with Mark Pope and the Wildcats.
The decision is a massive win for Kentucky, who have already seen key returnees like Otega Oweh, Travis Perry, and Brandon Garrison pledge to stay. Adding Flagg to that core gives Kentucky arguably the most dynamic and balanced roster in the nation.
Coach Mark Pope, who took over the program with a vision to return Kentucky to championship relevance, has wasted no time in making bold moves. Flagg’s commitment underscores the confidence elite players have in Pope’s system. “We’re building something special here,” Pope said in a statement. “Cooper’s skill set, work ethic, and passion for the game make him the perfect fit for what we’re creating at Kentucky.”
Flagg, for his part, expressed excitement about his new chapter. “Kentucky’s tradition speaks for itself,” he said. “But it was Coach Pope’s energy, his vision for me as a player, and the chance to be part of something big that made this the right decision.”
With Flagg now in the fold, Kentucky fans have every reason to dream big. The combination of high-level returning talent, Pope’s leadership, and the addition of a generational prospect like Cooper Flagg could mark the beginning of a new golden era for the Wildcats.
One thing is certain: the rest of college basketball has been put on notice—Kentucky is back, and they just landed a superstar.
