Duke’s prized recruit, Cooper Flagg, is already living up to his hype as the top freshman in the country. After an impressive week on the court, the 6-foot-8 forward has earned Freshman of the Week honors while also cementing his place atop rankings of the top newcomers in college basketball.
Flagg’s standout performances have not only bolstered Duke’s national title aspirations but have also highlighted his immense potential to dominate the college basketball scene. This past week, Flagg averaged 22.5 points, 10.3 rebounds, and 3.5 blocks per game, leading the Blue Devils to victories over two top-25 opponents. His ability to impact both ends of the court has drawn comparisons to some of Duke’s greatest players, with fans and analysts alike raving about his composure, versatility, and athleticism.
In Duke’s recent matchup against a strong Michigan State team, Flagg recorded a double-double with 26 points and 12 rebounds, showcasing his ability to thrive under pressure. His defensive prowess was also on full display, as he recorded four blocks and disrupted the Spartans’ offensive rhythm. “Cooper has an incredible feel for the game,” said Duke head coach Jon Scheyer. “He’s not just scoring for us; he’s making his teammates better and anchoring our defense.”
Flagg’s ability to adapt quickly to the college level is a testament to his work ethic and basketball IQ. As the consensus No. 1 recruit in the 2024 class, expectations were sky-high for Flagg entering the season. Thus far, he has exceeded those expectations, leading all freshmen in scoring and ranking among the top five in rebounds and blocks. His performances have helped Duke climb to a top-three spot in the national rankings, solidifying their status as a favorite for a deep NCAA Tournament run.
Off the court, Flagg has embraced his role as a leader and fan favorite, quickly becoming one of the faces of college basketball. Social media buzz around his highlight-reel dunks and game-saving defensive plays has further propelled his stardom. While it’s still early in the season, many are already projecting Flagg as the likely No. 1 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.
As the season progresses, all eyes will remain on Flagg and his ability to sustain this level of excellence. For now, he has firmly established himself as the premier freshman in college basketball, and his journey with Duke is shaping up to be one for the history books.