Text Me Back, Champ: Jon Scheyer’s Playful Concern About Duke Star Cooper Flagg
In just his third season at the helm of Duke basketball, Jon Scheyer brought the Blue Devils to the pinnacle of the college hoops world — a trip to the 2025 Final Four. Though the dream of a national title came up just short, the season was nothing less than historic, thanks in large part to a generational talent: Cooper Flagg.
Flagg’s lone season in Durham was everything fans hoped for — and more. With 19.2 points per game on a smooth 48.1% shooting, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists, Flagg not only dominated on the court, but claimed National College Player of the Year honors. His combination of talent, basketball IQ, and competitive fire made it clear early on that this was a one-year stop on the road to NBA stardom.
Now, as Flagg prepares for the next chapter — widely projected to be the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft — Duke is left reflecting on just how special this season was. And no one understands that more deeply than Jon Scheyer.
Appearing on this week’s episode of The Brotherhood Podcast, Scheyer spoke with admiration about what it meant to coach Cooper Flagg.
“Cooper was incredible this year,” Scheyer said. “The fact that he showed up every day, was an incredible teammate, always came with great energy — and then I think what he did on the court speaks for itself.”
But in true coach-player fashion, Scheyer couldn’t resist a lighthearted jab at his young star.
As host Justin Robinson prepared to ask another question, Scheyer interjected with a mock complaint that made everyone laugh — and revealed the kind of bond the two have built.
“It would be even better if he texted me back right away all the time since he’s so in tune,” Scheyer said with a grin. “He has the time to send questions in the Duke MBB group chat. He should have the time to text me back right away all the time. That’s one thing I’ll say.”
The moment, though playful, was revealing. It gave a glimpse into the culture Scheyer is building — one of genuine connection, mutual respect, and just enough teasing to keep things fun. It also confirmed something the Duke faithful already knew: Cooper Flagg wasn’t just a transcendent player; he was a beloved member of the Duke brotherhood.
Flagg, along with fellow starters Khaman Maluach, Kon Knueppel, and others, will be moving on to the NBA this summer — an enormous turnover for any program. But as usual, Duke isn’t staying down for long. Scheyer and his staff landed the No. 1 recruiting class in the nation (per 247 Sports), keeping the program firmly in championship contention.
Still, replacing a player like Flagg — both on and off the court — is no small task. His impact was immediate, electric, and unforgettable. He played with the composure of a veteran, the poise of a professional, and the hunger of a player who knows he’s destined for greatness.
With the Dallas Mavericks holding the No. 1 pick after a lottery miracle (just a 1.8% chance), Flagg could soon be teaming up with Kyrie Irving and Anthony Davis — forming what could be one of the most exciting young cores in the league.
The first round of the 2025 NBA Draft tips off on June 25 at 8:00 p.m. ET. Wherever Flagg ends up, he’ll carry the Duke legacy with him — and if Scheyer has any say, he’ll be doing it while replying to texts a little faster.
One thing’s for certain: the college basketball world won’t forget Cooper Flagg anytime soon. And neither will Jon Scheyer.
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