Duke Basketball Roundup DBR Bites #103 - WHAT IF Cooper and Kon come back??!?!
Apr 15, 2025
Jordan Brenner, a writer for The Athletic and host of the Underdog podcast, joins the discussion on the tantalizing scenario of basketball stars Cooper and Kon returning to Duke. They delve into why these players haven’t declared for the NBA Draft yet and the potential impact on team dynamics. The conversation hilariously navigates Duke's uncertain roster future while reflecting on the balance of legacy and financial gain. Ultimately, it’s a speculative yet entertaining take on the exciting prospects for Duke basketball.
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Draft Uncertainty & NIL Impact
- The uncertainty in players' NBA draft declarations might stem from new possibilities offered by NIL deals and legacy concerns.
- Cooper Flagg may weigh long-term career earnings against immediate NBA salary, valuing legacy over short-term gain.
Legacy & Risk Influence Decisions
- Many top players value legacy and winning titles, even if it means possibly delaying NBA earnings.
- Injury risk and uncertainty weigh heavily on the decision to stay or declare for the draft.
Tenure Shapes Player Legacy
- One-year stars at Duke rarely create lasting fan attachments compared to players who stay multiple seasons.
- Longer tenure positively impacts players' relationships with fans and their legacy at Duke.