Duke’s Cooper Flagg Achieves Rare Milestone in NCAA Tournament, First Since Dwyane Wade
Duke freshman Cooper Flagg has made an early impression in the college basketball world, achieving a rare and historic milestone in the NCAA Tournament. Flagg, a highly touted recruit and one of the most anticipated players to enter college basketball, became the first player since Dwyane Wade in 2003 to achieve a rare feat in March Madness—recording a double-double in his tournament debut while leading his team to a crucial victory.
Cooper Flagg’s Background
Cooper Flagg, hailing from the small town of Newport, Maine, entered Duke University as one of the most highly ranked high school players in recent memory. Known for his versatile play, excellent defense, and scoring ability, Flagg quickly became a household name in recruiting circles. His decision to commit to Duke was met with excitement, as the Blue Devils secured one of the top young talents in the country.
Flagg’s blend of skill, athleticism, and basketball IQ made him an immediate threat on the court, and expectations surrounding his college debut were sky-high. His performance during the regular season showed why he was so highly regarded, but his real test came in the postseason—specifically the NCAA Tournament, where the brightest stars often rise to the occasion.
Achieving the Milestone
In Duke’s opening game of the 2025 NCAA Tournament, Cooper Flagg not only lived up to expectations but exceeded them. In a dominant performance against a highly competitive opponent, Flagg recorded a double-double, accumulating 18 points and 11 rebounds. What made this achievement even more significant was the fact that Flagg was the first player since Dwyane Wade to achieve this feat in his NCAA Tournament debut. Wade, who went on to have a Hall of Fame career in the NBA, set the precedent in 2003, when he led Marquette to a Final Four and played a pivotal role in his team’s run with several electrifying performances.
Flagg’s double-double wasn’t just about numbers. His impact on the game went beyond the stat sheet. His tenacious defense, including several key blocks and steals, helped stymie the opposition’s offense. Furthermore, his leadership on the court was evident as he orchestrated Duke’s offense, showing a maturity beyond his years. Flagg’s ability to step up in the biggest moments of the tournament solidified his reputation as a player who thrives under pressure.
Significance of the Milestone
Flagg’s achievement is rare for several reasons. To record a double-double in one’s first NCAA Tournament game is already a challenging feat, but to do so as a freshman in the high-pressure environment of March Madness speaks volumes about Flagg’s poise and readiness. The last player to accomplish this was Dwyane Wade, who went on to become a national sensation at Marquette and a three-time NBA champion. Wade’s tournament run in 2003, which included performances like this one, is still considered one of the best individual postseason efforts in NCAA history.
For Flagg, achieving this milestone puts him in some very select company, and his performance will only add to the already high expectations for his future. Should he continue to play at this level, he could be a pivotal figure in Duke’s quest for a national championship in 2025 and possibly a top pick in the NBA Draft after his collegiate career.
The Road Ahead
With Cooper Flagg’s early success in the NCAA Tournament, Duke’s championship aspirations are alive and well. If Flagg can continue his dominant play throughout the tournament, he will solidify his status as one of the premier talents in college basketball and as the future face of the Blue Devils program.
In many ways, Flagg’s performance in the NCAA Tournament is reminiscent of the great players who have made their mark in March Madness—players like Dwyane Wade, who burst onto the scene with unforgettable moments. If his career trajectory continues on its current path, Flagg could be poised for a future full of similar accomplishments, both in college basketball and beyond.
