The hype surrounding Cooper Flagg has reached a fever pitch, and according to ESPN insiders, Duke’s growing dependence on its superstar freshman is becoming one of the most polarizing storylines in college basketball. While Flagg’s talent is undeniable, some around the program are quietly questioning whether the Blue Devils are leaning too heavily on one player — and whether that obsession could come with unintended consequences.
Flagg’s impact has been immediate. He touches nearly every possession, anchors the defense, sparks fast breaks, and often becomes the go-to option in crunch time. ESPN analysts note that Duke’s offensive flow increasingly bends around Flagg’s presence, sometimes at the expense of ball movement and rhythm. When he’s aggressive, Duke looks unstoppable. When he’s neutralized or fatigued, the offense can suddenly stall.
Insiders also point to the physical and mental toll. Opposing teams are designing entire game plans to wear Flagg down, throwing multiple defenders at him and forcing him into constant high-pressure situations. ESPN sources suggest that the concern isn’t about Flagg’s toughness, but about sustainability across a long, grinding season where every possession matters.
There’s another layer fueling the debate: development. Some analysts believe Duke risks slowing the growth of its supporting cast by placing too much responsibility on Flagg too early. While players thrive with a star to lean on, overreliance can quietly erode confidence and limit the team’s long-term ceiling — especially when tournament play demands balance and adaptability.
Still, head coach Jon Scheyer has publicly pushed back on the narrative, emphasizing that Flagg’s role is part of a broader system, not a solo act. Internally, ESPN reports that Duke’s staff is aware of the chatter and is actively working to diversify offensive responsibilities while protecting their star from burnout.
For now, the wins keep coming, and the spotlight remains firmly on Cooper Flagg. But as ESPN insiders warn, the margin between trust and dependence is razor-thin. If Duke fails to strike the right balance, what looks like a championship formula today could become the very reason their season unravels when it matters most.
