Scheyer’s lineup adjustments might become a media spectacle, and ESPN is prepared to benefit.
Jon Scheyer’s Duke team has looked practically unbeatable this season, and with only three regular-season games remaining, they are primed for a lengthy March Madness run. However, a couple unforeseen twists have put some uncertainty into the equation, as injuries to important players Tyrese Proctor and Maliq Brown have thrust the Blue Devils into unfamiliar ground. Analysts question if now is the moment for Duke to experiment with its lineup, or if they will stay with what has worked thus far.
On ESPN’s The Drive, Tim Donnelly suggested Duke should “get weird” with their rotations, throwing out bold ideas like playing Cooper Flagg at the five or even handing him more ball-handling responsibilities. Flagg, already drawing Scottie Pippen comparisons for his versatility, is a player who can adapt-but just how much weight should a freshman carry?
That’s where things take an even more unexpected turn. ESPN has reportedly made a bold offer to Flagg: exclusive behind-the-scenes access throughout the NCAA Tournament. The deal would include mic’d-up moments, locker room footage, and a documentary-style feature following his journey. It’s a first-of-its-kind media opportunity that could reshape how college basketball is covered.
But there’s a catch: Duke’s locker room is already tense. According to The Athletic, some players are concerned about the lineup changes that are taking place while Proctor and Brown are absent. Could Flagg become the center of a media frenzy, further disrupting team chemistry?
Will the media frenzy upset the Duke locker room?
It’s an offer that might help Flagg’s brand expand beyond college basketball, particularly in the current NIL era. Sports Illustrated has reported on how NIL deals are affecting the power dynamic in the NCAA, and this could be another step in that regard. For ESPN, signing a future NBA star to an all-access package would be a game changer.
Flagg’s current emphasis remains on the court. Duke’s final few games will define their momentum heading into March Madness, and Scheyer’s rotation management could be the determining factor. But in the backdrop, a larger question looms: would Flagg enjoy the media spotlight, or will he prioritize keeping Duke’s championship chances on track?
