: Iconic Duke Duo Officially Splits — Flagg & Knueppel Say Goodbye in Emotional Exit That Shocks Blue Devil Nation!
It’s official—college basketball’s most talked-about freshman duo is no more. Duke Blue Devils stars Cooper Flagg and Kon Knueppel have both declared for the 2025 NBA Draft, officially ending a short-lived but unforgettable partnership that electrified fans and redefined Duke’s season.
The news has hit Blue Devil Nation like a buzzer-beater heartbreak. After leading Duke to a deep tournament run and coming within reach of a national championship, Flagg and Knueppel are going their separate ways—leaving behind one of the most dynamic rookie pairings the program has ever seen.
Flagg, the 6’8” generational talent, wowed audiences with his shot-blocking, highlight dunks, and all-around dominance on both ends of the court. Knueppel, the steady and lethal sharpshooter, brought poise, playmaking, and pinpoint precision from three-point range. Together, they were unstoppable. Opposing teams game-planned for them, analysts raved about them, and fans believed in them.
Now, in a matter of days, both have declared for the NBA, officially closing the door on what could have been a legendary second act in Durham.
Knueppel announced his decision with gratitude, saying, “Playing at Duke has been a dream come true. I’m thankful for my coaches, teammates, and the fans who made this year unforgettable. It’s time to take the next step in my journey.”
Meanwhile, Flagg’s declaration was equally emotional, as he thanked the Duke community and said he was “forever a Blue Devil.”
The split marks not just the end of their partnership, but a transition period for Duke Basketball. Head coach Jon Scheyer now faces the tall task of rebuilding without two of the most impactful freshmen in recent memory. But if their time at Duke proved anything, it’s that the program can still attract and develop NBA-level talent.
For fans, it’s bittersweet. The duo’s exit leaves a void, but their impact won’t be forgotten. They’ve etched their names into Duke history, and their next chapter in the NBA is one the basketball world will be watching closely.
From viral highlights to March Madness heroics, Flagg and Knueppel gave Duke fans a season to remember. Now, as they chase their dreams at the next level, the legacy of the iconic duo will live on—just no longer side by side.
