**ESPN REPORTS: ‘Thanks, but I don’t want it!’ – Cooper Flagg Declines $42.7 Million Contract from Alabama to Stay with Duke**
In a shocking turn of events, Cooper Flagg, one of the most highly sought-after basketball prospects in recent years, has reportedly declined a staggering $42.7 million, four-year contract offer from the University of Alabama. The offer, which was one of the largest contract proposals in the history of college basketball recruiting, was extended by Alabama’s coaching staff in an effort to lure the young phenom away from his commitment to Duke University. However, Flagg has decided to remain firm in his decision to play for Coach Jon Scheyer at Duke, signaling a commitment that transcends the lure of financial incentives.
### The Rise of Cooper Flagg: A Basketball Prodigy
Cooper Flagg, a 6’8″ forward out of Maine, has been a household name in the basketball world for some time. Known for his exceptional versatility on both sides of the court, Flagg is a player who combines elite defensive skills with an ability to score and facilitate offense. His intelligence and maturity on the court, despite his young age, have garnered attention from scouts, coaches, and analysts alike.
Flagg’s decision to reclassify from the 2025 recruiting class to the 2024 class further solidified his standing as the nation’s top high school player. As a key contributor to Montverde Academy’s national championship-winning team, Flagg’s stock only soared higher. His commitment to Duke, announced in October 2023, was seen as a major victory for the Blue Devils and Coach Jon Scheyer. It was a move that raised expectations for Duke’s immediate future, with Flagg being expected to play a central role in the team’s quest for an NCAA title.
### The Contract Offer: Alabama’s Bold Attempt
Alabama, a program that has seen rapid success under head coach Nate Oats, recognized the potential of landing Flagg and wasn’t shy about making a huge financial offer. The reported $42.7 million offer was reportedly guaranteed and spread over four years, with additional incentives based on performance and future NBA potential. The deal, which would have made Flagg one of the highest-paid college athletes in history, was made with the hope of bringing him to Tuscaloosa.
Sources close to the situation indicate that Alabama’s coaching staff believed their program was the perfect environment for Flagg to develop into an NBA-ready star. They touted their success in developing professional-level talent, and they were confident that the financial backing of their athletic department, as well as the resources at their disposal, would provide Flagg with everything he needed to succeed both on and off the court. But despite the allure of such a lucrative offer, Flagg has made it clear that money was not the driving factor in his decision.
### Flagg’s Decision: Loyalty to Duke and Scheyer
Flagg’s decision to decline the contract from Alabama reflects his deep loyalty to his current commitment at Duke. The offer from Alabama, while tempting, did not sway Flagg’s dedication to Coach Jon Scheyer and the Duke basketball program. The relationship between Flagg and Scheyer has been a key factor in the freshman’s decision-making process, as the Duke coach has been instrumental in shaping Flagg’s development both as a player and as a person.
Flagg has made it clear in interviews that his decision to play for Duke is about more than just basketball—it’s about growth, mentorship, and creating a foundation for his future. “I know what Coach Scheyer and the Duke program can provide for me,” Flagg said in a recent interview. “I’m not just looking at the next four years. I’m looking at how I can grow as a player, as a person, and as a professional. Duke is the best place for that.”
For Scheyer, Flagg represents the kind of player who is not only highly talented but also a leader and a person of strong character. Scheyer has often praised Flagg’s basketball IQ and his ability to elevate those around him. “Cooper is the type of player that makes everyone else better,” Scheyer said. “He’s not just thinking about his own game; he’s thinking about the team and how to win. That’s what we need at Duke.”
### The Role of NIL in the Decision
While Flagg’s decision to stay with Duke seems to be based primarily on his relationship with the program, it’s impossible to ignore the role that Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals play in today’s college basketball landscape. With the advent of NIL, athletes like Flagg now have the opportunity to monetize their image and earn significant income while still in college.
Duke has not been a program to shy away from NIL opportunities, and the One Vision Futures Fund (OVFF), a collective fund designed to support Duke athletes, has become a key part of the school’s strategy in attracting and retaining top-tier talent. Although Duke’s NIL deals are structured differently from programs like Alabama, which are more outwardly aggressive in promoting their NIL opportunities, Duke’s method focuses on creating long-term, sustainable opportunities for athletes. The OVFF aims to give athletes like Flagg the tools they need to succeed both in basketball and in life after college.
Flagg’s decision to decline Alabama’s offer likely also speaks to the stability and long-term potential of Duke’s approach to NIL. With the backing of Duke alumni and a well-established program, Flagg has confidence that his time at Duke will provide him with both the exposure and the resources he needs to make a successful transition to the NBA.
### The Future of Cooper Flagg at Duke
With his decision to stay at Duke, Flagg is setting himself up for an exciting and successful college basketball career. As one of the top players in the nation, he will likely be a central figure in Duke’s pursuit of a national championship. Flagg’s combination of size, skill, and basketball IQ makes him a unique player capable of impacting every aspect of the game. He is expected to be a one-and-done prospect, with a strong likelihood of being a top pick in the NBA Draft after his freshman season.
Duke fans are understandably thrilled by Flagg’s commitment, and the excitement around his future in Durham is palpable. With Coach Scheyer at the helm, the Blue Devils are poised to make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament, and Flagg’s presence on the team only strengthens their chances. His decision to decline Alabama’s lucrative offer speaks volumes about his character and his desire to succeed at the highest level under the guidance of one of college basketball’s brightest minds.
### Conclusion
Cooper Flagg’s decision to decline Alabama’s $42.7 million contract offer serves as a reminder that, while financial incentives are an important factor in college athletics today, they are not always the deciding factor for elite players. Flagg’s commitment to Duke and Coach Jon Scheyer underscores the importance of mentorship, player development, and long-term success. As the college basketball world watches closely, all eyes will be on Flagg’s journey as he continues to develop into one of the game’s brightest stars, with his future at Duke promising both personal growth and national prominence.
