Cooper Flagg Declares Unfinished Business at Duke, Withdraws from Transfer Portal. In a resounding message to the college basketball world, Cooper Flagg is staying in Durham. The Duke star has officially pulled his name from the NCAA transfer portal, committing to one more season with the Blue Devils. “There’s one more thing we need to do,” Flagg said, alluding to a championship chase. His return signals a renewed fire and sets the stage for Duke’s 2025-26 redemption tour. With Flagg leading the way, the mission is clear: win it all.

In a major announcement that has sent ripples through the college basketball world, Cooper Flagg has officially withdrawn from the NCAA transfer portal, choosing instead to remain with the Duke Blue Devils for at least one more season. The decision comes after weeks of speculation following Duke’s disappointing exit from the NCAA Tournament, and puts an end to rumors linking Flagg with a potential move to other powerhouse programs. “There’s one more thing we need to do,” Flagg said in a brief but powerful statement, igniting excitement and hope among the Duke fanbase.

Flagg, one of the most hyped freshmen in recent college basketball history, made an immediate impact during his first year at Duke. A versatile forward with elite scoring, defense, and court vision, he was a focal point of the Blue Devils’ offense and quickly emerged as a team leader. Despite his standout play, Duke fell short of expectations in March Madness, getting knocked out earlier than many anticipated. That early exit clearly left a mark on Flagg, whose competitive drive appears to be fueling his return.

His statement, “There’s one more thing we need to do,” strongly hints at unfinished business—most likely a national championship run. Duke has been a perennial title contender, and with Flagg returning, they immediately re-enter the conversation as one of the early favorites for the 2025-26 season. His commitment sends a message not only to his teammates and coaches but also to the broader college basketball landscape: Duke is not done.

In the days leading up to his announcement, rumors swirled that top programs such as UConn, Kansas, and even archrival North Carolina had reached out to gauge Flagg’s interest. However, the 6-foot-9 phenom ultimately decided that his heart—and legacy—still belong in Durham. Sources close to the program say head coach Jon Scheyer played a pivotal role in Flagg’s decision, laying out a plan for next season that centers around Flagg’s leadership.

His return also provides stability to a Duke roster that has seen its fair share of changes in recent years due to early NBA Draft declarations and the transfer portal carousel. With Flagg anchoring the team, other key players—especially younger ones—may be more inclined to stay, creating a more cohesive and experienced unit. The Blue Devils are expected to reload with top-tier incoming freshmen and are now an even more attractive destination for high-profile transfers.

Flagg’s return is not just about basketball—it’s about legacy. He came to Duke with sky-high expectations and has delivered in many ways, but leading the program to a national title would etch his name into Blue Devil lore forever. Staying one more year gives him the opportunity to build on the foundation he laid during his freshman season and chase greatness in a way that’s hard to replicate elsewhere.

For Duke fans, the news comes as a surge of optimism. After a bitter tournament loss, Flagg’s commitment provides a jolt of momentum heading into the offseason. Season ticket renewals are likely to soar, and merchandise bearing Flagg’s name and number is already expected to be a top seller. His popularity on and off the court gives Duke a clear face of the program going forward.

Nationally, this decision could also impact NBA Draft projections for 2026. Flagg was widely considered a likely one-and-done prospect, but his return delays his pro debut and reshuffles next year’s draft board. Scouts and executives will now keep an even closer eye on his sophomore campaign, knowing that he’s taking this extra year to polish his game and lead a title contender.

Media analysts have praised Flagg’s maturity and competitive spirit. In an era where the transfer portal and NIL deals can complicate long-term loyalty to a single program, Flagg’s decision bucks the trend. It signals a deep respect for Duke’s tradition and a personal desire to accomplish something bigger than himself.

As the countdown to the 2025-26 season begins, all eyes will be on Cooper Flagg and the Duke Blue Devils. With their superstar forward back in the fold, the expectations will be sky-high—and so will the pressure. But for Flagg, who has already proven he can carry the weight of a program on his shoulders, the mission is clear. There’s one more thing to do—and that’s win it all.