Cooper Flagg Earns ACC Player and Rookie of the Year Awards; Five Blue Devils Receive Honors
Duke University’s star freshman, Cooper Flagg, has made an immediate and undeniable impact on the college basketball landscape, earning the prestigious titles of Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) Player of the Year and Rookie of the Year for the 2024-2025 season. Flagg’s exceptional performance throughout the season helped elevate the Blue Devils to new heights, and his recognition is a testament to his talent, hard work, and versatility on the court.
Flagg, who had been one of the most anticipated players coming into the season, has delivered on every bit of the hype. As a 6-foot-9 forward with a rare combination of size, skill, and athleticism, Flagg has proven to be an all-around player capable of influencing the game in multiple ways. His impressive stats, including averaging 18.3 points, 9.4 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks per game, have placed him firmly in the conversation for national player of the year honors as well.
Known for his defensive prowess, Flagg has shown his ability to guard multiple positions and change the course of games with his shot-blocking and defensive awareness. Offensively, he has exhibited a smooth, versatile scoring game, from mid-range jumpers to powerful dunks. His high basketball IQ and leadership on the floor have also been key to Duke’s success this season.
In addition to his personal accolades, Flagg’s performance has propelled Duke to the top of the ACC standings. Under the guidance of head coach Jon Scheyer, the Blue Devils have looked like national title contenders, with Flagg at the heart of their efforts. His leadership and composure in high-pressure moments have made him a standout not only in the conference but across the entire country.
Flagg’s recognition as ACC Player of the Year is a significant achievement for the freshman, as he becomes one of the youngest players to ever earn the title. His immediate success also highlights the ever-increasing role of young players in shaping college basketball, as freshmen are making their mark earlier and earlier in their careers. Flagg’s achievement is further enhanced by his ability to elevate the team, showcasing his potential to lead Duke into the postseason and beyond.
Alongside Flagg’s accolades, four of his teammates have also earned recognition for their performances throughout the season. Junior guard Jeremy Roach earned a spot on the All-ACC First Team, while sophomore forward Kyle Filipowski was named to the Second Team. Freshman guard Caleb Foster received an Honorable Mention, and junior guard Tyrese Proctor was included in the All-Defensive Team for his relentless defense and leadership on that side of the ball.
These individual honors reflect the collective effort of the Blue Devils this season. With the continued growth of Flagg and the contributions of other key players, Duke appears poised for a deep run in the NCAA tournament. The Blue Devils are now one of the most well-rounded teams in the country, and their success in the ACC, bolstered by these individual awards, has only further solidified their place as a dominant force in college basketball.
Cooper Flagg’s recognition as both ACC Player and Rookie of the Year is a reflection of his extraordinary talent and the bright future that lies ahead for him and the Duke Blue Devils. With the NCAA tournament on the horizon, Flagg and his teammates are primed to continue their quest for greatness, fueled by their recent individual and team successes.
