In a stunning development that could reshape the college basketball landscape, sources confirm that Duke Basketball’s front office is engaged in serious discussions with the Los Angeles Lakers regarding a blockbuster $175 million deal involving 19-year-old standout Cooper Flagg.
Flagg, widely regarded as one of the most electrifying young prospects in recent memory, has been the centerpiece of the Blue Devils’ success this season. His combination of elite defensive prowess, high basketball IQ, and offensive versatility has drawn comparisons to some of the game’s greats. Now, the Lakers—long known for their aggressive pursuit of generational talent—are looking to bring him into the fold.
According to insiders, the deal, which is still in preliminary stages, could see the Lakers acquiring Flagg in exchange for a financial package valued at $175 million, a figure that would set a new precedent in college basketball negotiations. While NCAA regulations currently prevent direct trades between college programs and NBA teams, the framework of this deal reportedly involves a complex arrangement that would allow Flagg to declare for the NBA Draft early while ensuring Duke receives significant compensation through NIL-related partnerships and future considerations.
“This is a groundbreaking moment,” one NBA executive told ESPN. “We’ve never seen a situation quite like this, where a player’s value is being discussed at this level before they’ve even officially entered the draft.”
Hailing from Newport, Maine, Flagg has taken the college basketball world by storm with his dynamic two-way play. Standing at 6-foot-9 with elite shot-blocking skills and an improving three-point shot, he has solidified himself as the projected No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming NBA Draft. In his freshman season at Duke, Flagg has been averaging 18.7 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 3.2 blocks per game, further cementing his status as a can’t-miss prospect.
His rapid ascent has made him a priority target for several NBA franchises, but the Lakers’ willingness to engage in a groundbreaking financial maneuver has set them apart.
While Duke has traditionally been a powerhouse in college basketball, known for retaining top talent for at least a year, this potential transaction has raised questions about the future of high-profile college athletes in the NIL era.
Duke head coach Jon Scheyer has remained tight-lipped on the matter but praised Flagg’s impact on the program. “Cooper is an unbelievable competitor, and he has meant so much to this team. Right now, our focus is on finishing the season strong.”
It remains unclear how Duke would benefit directly from such a deal under NCAA guidelines, but speculation suggests that NIL collectives and partnerships could play a key role in ensuring the program is compensated in some form.
With March Madness fast approaching, the potential distraction of a deal of this magnitude looms large over Duke’s season. However, Flagg has maintained his focus, stating in a recent interview, “I’m just here to play basketball. Everything else will take care of itself.”
If the Lakers and Duke’s front office manage to finalize terms, this could mark the beginning of a seismic shift in the way college basketball programs and NBA teams navigate the evolving landscape of player compensation and recruitment.
For now, all eyes remain on Cooper Flagg and the possibility of a history-making deal that could change the future of basketball as we know it.
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