Cooper Flagg’s Dominant College Season Ends by Joining Larry Bird in Achieving Historic NCAA Stat Line
In what will go down as one of the most electrifying freshman seasons in college basketball history, Duke University’s Cooper Flagg wrapped up his debut campaign by etching his name alongside one of the sport’s all-time legends—Larry Bird. Flagg’s remarkable performances throughout the 2024–25 season culminated in a historic statistical feat, placing him in exclusive company and setting the stage for what many expect to be a generational professional career.
Flagg became the first player since Larry Bird in 1979 to finish an NCAA season averaging at least 19 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 blocks, and 1 steal per game while leading his team to the Final Four. This all-around dominance across both ends of the floor showcased his rare versatility and basketball IQ—traits that have had scouts buzzing since his high school days in Maine.
At 6’9″, Flagg served as the engine of a resurgent Duke squad, bringing the program back into national championship contention. Over the course of the season, he averaged 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 2.3 blocks, and 1.4 steals per game. His ability to impact the game in so many ways drew early comparisons to NBA greats, but it was his poise, leadership, and clutch performances that truly separated him from other top prospects.
In the NCAA Tournament, Flagg elevated his game even further. During Duke’s Final Four clash against Houston, Flagg poured in 27 points, grabbed 8 rebounds, and swatted 3 shots in a nail-biting 70–67 loss. Despite the defeat, his individual brilliance was undeniable, and his ability to deliver under pressure cemented his status as college basketball’s brightest star.
For his efforts, Flagg swept the major national awards, including the prestigious Naismith Trophy and the Associated Press Men’s College Basketball Player of the Year. He became just the fourth freshman in history to win both honors, joining elite company that includes Kevin Durant, Zion Williamson, and Anthony Davis.
Perhaps even more impressively, Flagg accomplished this while facing sky-high expectations. As the top recruit in the 2024 class, he was expected to be good—but few predicted he would be this dominant, this soon. Former Syracuse coach Jim Boeheim went so far as to call Flagg “the most complete freshman I’ve ever seen,” noting that his instincts, athleticism, and competitiveness reminded him of a young Larry Bird.
Now, with his college career likely complete, all eyes turn to the NBA Draft, where Flagg is projected to go No. 1 overall. While his time at Duke was brief, the legacy he leaves behind is lasting. In just one season, Cooper Flagg reignited the Blue Devils’ championship hopes, captivated a nation of basketball fans, and entered the record books beside one of the game’s greatest legends.
As he takes the next step in his basketball journey, the comparisons to Larry Bird may only grow louder. But if this season proved anything, it’s that Cooper Flagg is ready to carve out a legendary path of his own.
