Cooper Flagg’s Open Letter to the Duke Blue Devils Community
To My Family of Duke Blue Devils,
It is almost impossible for me to express how grateful and in love I am with this program, this university, and this amazing community as I take the time to think back on my time with Duke Basketball. I realized I was a part of something unique and greater than myself as soon as I took the court at Cameron Indoor Stadium. I will always be shaped by the camaraderie, the history, and the steadfast support of Blue Devil Nation.
I want to take a moment today to express my gratitude to the coaches, my teammates, the Duke community, and the fans for making my time here truly memorable and for creating an atmosphere that allowed me to develop as a competitor, a person, and a player.
A Brotherhood That Is Unmatched
For my teammates, you are my brothers, not simply my teammates. Together, we have celebrated successes, pushed one another over our limitations, and battled through demanding sessions. I will always treasure the times we spent together, whether it was working out hard in the gym, motivating one another before games, or just taking pleasure in creating something amazing together. Every struggle we had on the court made us stronger. I am pleased to be a part of Duke Brotherhood, which is a real thing.
To My Coaches Who Had Faith in Me
I will always be appreciative of Coach Scheyer and the entire coaching team for their faith in me, their insight, and their commitment. Your guidance helped mold me into the player I am now, and your faith in my skills inspired me to reach new levels of performance. You taught me life lessons in addition to basketball. I will always be appreciative of you because you pushed me, challenged me, and expected the best of me.
To the Supporters: Duke Basketball’s Lifeblood
There isn’t a fanbase like yours, Cameron Crazies. Every game seemed like the biggest basketball stage thanks to you, from the thunderous applause to the thrilling atmosphere of Cameron Indoor. Your enthusiasm encouraged us, your enthusiasm kept us going, and your faith in this team never faltered. One of the greatest honors of my life was running out onto that court with all of you behind us. I appreciate how you made each moment special.
I will always consider Duke to be my home.
Playing basketball is only one aspect of being a part of Duke Basketball; another is embracing a culture of excellence, a legacy, and a standard. It’s about knowing what it means to compete passionately, to wear that jersey, and to stand for something bigger than yourself.
To the entire Duke community, thank you for making this journey so amazing. Whether in the locker room, on the court, or going through campus, I have always felt the love and support that distinguishes this place.
Duke will always be a part of my heart, no matter where my journey takes me. This is only the beginning, not the end.
With appreciation and affection,
Cooper Flagg Will Always Be a Blue Devil