Guard Cooper Flagg’s epochal open letter to the Duke Blue Devils, their supporters, and the entire Blue Devils community
To the whole Blue Devils community, beloved fans, and the Duke Brotherhood,
I am incredibly grateful when I pause to consider this amazing adventure I have been fortunate enough to travel. This letter is written out of a great sense of gratitude, respect, and love for a university and a community that accepted me, encouraged me, pushed me, and helped me develop not only as a basketball player but also as a man.
I sensed something unique as soon as I set foot on the Durham campus. Like a second home, the tradition of grandeur, the dedication to perfection, and the shared mission encircled me. I was aware that this was a family, not just a program. I want to thank Coach Jon Scheyer and the coaching staff for believing in me. Your confidence in my abilities and commitment to assisting me in refining every aspect of my character and game have been nothing short of transformative. You encouraged me, pushed me to be the best version of myself, and mentored me in addition to coaching me.
Thank you to my brothers, my teammates. Together, we have endured hardship, triumphed, and sweated. What we shared off the court shaped what we built on it. I will always remember the giggles, the exercises, the practice skirmishes, and the silent times when we encouraged one another. In ways that no stat sheet could ever demonstrate, you improved me.
To the Duke community—the students, faculty, alumni, and staff—thank you for creating an environment that nurtured growth in every direction. From the classroom to the court, Duke gave me space to dream, to fail, to learn, and to rise. Your support wasn’t just visible in the stands—it was felt in every hallway, in every conversation, and in every act of kindness that reminded me why I chose this path.
Thank you to all of the fans who fill Cameron Indoor with pride in their hearts and fire in their voices. You are Duke Basketball’s lifeblood. You provided us with the kind of support that most athletes can only imagine by showing up every night, win or lose, rain or shine. Every time I put that jersey on, you motivated me to give it my all. I felt like I was a part of something much greater than myself because of you. It was an honour and a privilege to play for you.
Even if my path with the Blue Devils may eventually lead me to new locations, Duke will always be a part of who I am. The fraternity endures forever. The love will always be there. And the appreciation? Infinite.
I appreciate you being my family, my inspiration, and my basis.
With sincere gratitude,
#TheBrotherhoodForever 🕊💙 Cooper Flagg