Duke’s Scheyer Praises Cooper Flagg as “My Best,” Confident Cameron Boozer and Darren Harris Can Fill Key Role
Durham, N.C. — Duke head coach John Scheyer offered high praise for freshman forward Cooper Flagg this week, calling him “my best” while also expressing optimism that rising prospects Cameron Boozer and Darren Harris are prepared to step into pivotal roles for the Blue Devils.
Flagg, one of the most highly touted recruits in recent memory, has quickly lived up to expectations at Duke. The 6-foot-9 forward has impressed with his versatility, defensive instincts, and ability to deliver in high-pressure situations. For Scheyer, his immediate impact went beyond numbers.
“Cooper never played like a freshman,” Scheyer said. “He carried himself with maturity, and he set the standard for the rest of the team. He was my best player in terms of impact, leadership, and the way he raised everyone’s level.”
Flagg’s emergence has solidified Duke’s position among the national contenders, but his presence also highlights the challenge of succession when elite talent moves through the program quickly. Scheyer acknowledged that while Flagg’s contributions will be difficult to replace, the program’s next generation of talent is ready to step forward.
“Cameron Boozer and Darren Harris are special players,” Scheyer said. “They have the ability and the mentality to step into that role and carry on what Cooper gave us. I believe they’re prepared to do it right away.”
Cameron Boozer’s Poise
Boozer, the son of former Duke standout and NBA All-Star Carlos Boozer, has drawn national attention as one of the top young players in the country. At 6-foot-9, he brings a combination of power, skill, and versatility rarely seen in teenagers. His polished inside-out game makes him a matchup problem, while his understanding of Duke’s culture gives him a head start in his development.
“Cameron grew up around the game,” Scheyer said. “You can see that experience in the way he plays. He understands winning, he understands responsibility, and he’s not afraid of the big moments. He has the tools to be a leader here.”
Darren Harris’ Shooting and Energy
Alongside Boozer, Darren Harris is expected to provide critical support as a perimeter threat. The 6-foot-6 guard has already built a reputation as a reliable outside shooter, but Scheyer sees his game as more complete than just his scoring ability.
“Darren brings toughness and energy,” Scheyer noted. “His shooting stretches the floor, which is huge for our offense, but he also competes on the defensive end. He has confidence that you can’t teach, and he thrives under pressure.”
Balancing Legacy and Transition
For Scheyer, managing the transition from one star player to the next has become an essential part of coaching at Duke in the modern era of college basketball. With the one-and-done rule, NIL opportunities, and the transfer portal changing the landscape, continuity is harder than ever to achieve.
Still, the second-year head coach believes that Duke’s tradition and culture remain central to its ability to adapt.
“Duke basketball is bigger than one player,” Scheyer said. “Cooper gave us something incredible, but this program is about sustaining a standard of excellence. Cameron and Darren represent the next chapter in that story.”
Looking Ahead
As the Blue Devils prepare for the upcoming season, questions remain about how the roster will gel and whether the younger players can step into expanded responsibilities immediately. The coaching staff has emphasized player development and team chemistry in the offseason, hoping to blend established talent with incoming stars.
Scheyer remains confident that the pieces are in place.
“You never replace a guy like Cooper Flagg one-for-one,” Scheyer said. “But we believe in the collective. Cameron Boozer, Darren Harris, and the rest of our group are capable of carrying that load. Our standard doesn’t change.”
The Road Forward
The Blue Devils will open their season with expectations as high as ever. With Flagg already establishing himself as a cornerstone and Boozer and Harris drawing early attention, Duke is once again positioned at the forefront of the national conversation.
For Scheyer, the challenge will be turning potential into results.
“He was my best,” Scheyer said of Flagg. “But the best thing about Duke is that there’s always another star ready to rise. That’s what makes this place special.”
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