Duke University’s freshman sensation, Cooper Flagg, has been named a semifinalist for the 2025 Werner Ladder Naismith Men’s College Player of the Year award. This accolade underscores Flagg’s remarkable impact in his inaugural collegiate season.
Early Life and High School Achievements
Born on December 21, 2006, in Newport, Maine, Flagg’s basketball journey began at Nokomis Regional High School. In his freshman year, he averaged 20.5 points, 10 rebounds, 6.2 assists, 3.7 steals, and 3.7 blocks per game, leading his team to a state championship. He transferred to Montverde Academy in Florida for his sophomore year, where he earned MVP honors at the 2023 Hoophall Classic and was named a semifinalist for the Naismith Prep Player of the Year. In his junior year, Flagg averaged 16.4 points, 7.5 rebounds, 3.8 assists, and 2.7 blocks per game, contributing to Montverde Academy’s perfect 34-0 record and securing the national title. He received several prestigious awards, including the Naismith Prep Player of the Year.
Collegiate Impact at Duke
Flagg’s transition to Duke University has been nothing short of stellar. In his freshman season, he led the Blue Devils with averages of 18.9 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game. His performance earned him the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) Player and Rookie of the Year honors.
Recent Challenges
During the ACC quarterfinals against Georgia Tech, Flagg sustained a sprained left ankle, leading to his absence in the subsequent semifinal matchup against North Carolina. Despite negative X-ray results, significant swelling has hindered his recovery, placing his participation in the upcoming NCAA Tournament in question.
Naismith Award Semifinalists
Flagg is among ten semifinalists for the Naismith Player of the Year award:
Johni Broome (Auburn)
Walter Clayton Jr. (Florida)
Cooper Flagg (Duke)
Kam Jones (Marquette)
Ryan Kalkbrenner (Creighton)
RJ Luis Jr. (St. John’s)
Mark Sears (Alabama)
Braden Smith (Purdue)
John Tonje (Wisconsin)
JT Toppin (Texas Tech)
Looking Ahead
As Duke anticipates its NCAA Tournament run, the status of Cooper Flagg’s health remains a focal point. His potential return could significantly influence the Blue Devils’ championship aspirations. The Naismith Player of the Year finalists are scheduled to be announced on March 20, with the award recipient to be revealed following the conclusion of the NCAA Tournament.
