As the NBA Playoffs intensify, 14 franchises have already shifted their focus to the next pivotal moment: the 2025 NBA Draft. With the draft lottery set for May 12, teams like the Charlotte Hornets, Washington Wizards, and Utah Jazz eagerly await their chance at the No. 1 overall pick. And while nothing is guaranteed, one thing is universally agreed upon — whoever lands that pick will select Duke’s generational freshman, Cooper Flagg.
Flagg, the consensus National Player of the Year, has been a sensation since stepping onto the court in Durham. Now, after leading Duke to a dominant season and a Final Four appearance, he’s poised to become the first overall selection in June’s draft. But the Blue Devil impact won’t stop there — Flagg’s success has cast a spotlight on his teammates, paving the way for what could be one of Duke’s most historic draft classes.
Despite their heartbreaking loss to Houston in the Final Four, Duke’s 2024–25 campaign was nothing short of extraordinary. They posted a 16-game winning streak — the longest in college basketball this season and Duke’s best run in over two decades. Much of that success stemmed not just from Flagg’s brilliance, but from the depth and versatility of the roster.
Among those riding the wave into NBA first-round consideration are Khaman Maluach and Kon Knueppel. Maluach, a 7-foot-2 freshman center, declared for the draft shortly after Duke’s tournament exit. He flashed elite defensive instincts and rebounding prowess all season, and scouts believe his upside as a modern rim protector and lob threat makes him a potential top-10 pick. Knueppel, a sharpshooting wing with a high basketball IQ, offers another dynamic skill set that NBA teams covet. He’s projected to land in the mid-to-late first round, with some speculation he could rise even higher depending on team workouts.
Flagg’s presence has done more than elevate Duke’s win total — it’s raised the draft stock of everyone around him. His unselfish playmaking, elite defense, and leadership have allowed teammates like Maluach and Knueppel to shine in complementary roles. NBA teams have taken notice.
As the June 25 draft approaches, it’s clear this Duke trio is ready to take the next step — and Cooper Flagg is leading the charge. Not only is he a lock to go No. 1, but his success has helped illuminate just how deep and talented Duke’s roster was this season. And for NBA teams desperate for a fresh start, that makes every Blue Devil on the board all the more attractive.
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