Duke University freshman Cooper Flagg has been named the Associated Press (AP) Men’s College Basketball Player of the Year, marking an incredible achievement in his young career. Flagg, who has been a standout for the Blue Devils, earned the prestigious title after leading his team to a successful season. He joins a rare group of players, becoming only the fourth freshman in history to receive the AP Player of the Year honor.
Flagg’s performance throughout the season has been nothing short of spectacular. He led Duke in multiple categories, averaging 18.9 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists, and 1.4 steals per game. His all-around game and ability to impact every facet of the court have made him a dynamic player, and a major reason why Duke has been so successful this season. His scoring ability, combined with his defensive prowess, has made him one of the most well-rounded players in college basketball.
The 18-year-old from Newport, Maine, has drawn comparisons to some of college basketball’s most legendary freshmen, including Zion Williamson, Kevin Durant, and Anthony Davis. Flagg’s skills on the court have been exceptional, and he has consistently stepped up in big moments. One of the highlights of his season came in a game against Notre Dame, where he scored 42 points, setting a new freshman scoring record for both Duke and the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC).
Beyond his offensive abilities, Flagg has showcased his leadership, maturity, and competitive spirit. He has played a key role in Duke’s run to the Final Four, the team’s first appearance in the national semifinals since 2022. His contributions have been invaluable to the team, as he has emerged as a true leader both on and off the court.
Flagg’s recognition doesn’t stop at the AP Player of the Year award. He has also received several other accolades, including the Wayman Tisdale Award for Freshman of the Year and the Oscar Robertson Trophy from the U.S. Basketball Writers Association. In addition, he has been named ACC Player and Rookie of the Week multiple times, becoming the first player in ACC history to sweep the conference’s weekly awards more than twice.
Off the court, Flagg remains grounded and focused, balancing his academic and athletic commitments while staying focused on the future. There has been speculation about his potential NBA future, but Flagg has remained focused on helping Duke win a national championship. His performance has solidified his status as one of the top prospects in the upcoming NBA draft, and many expect him to make a significant impact at the professional level.
As Duke prepares for its upcoming Final Four matchup, Flagg’s star continues to rise. His remarkable freshman campaign has captivated college basketball fans, and many are excited to see what’s next for the young phenom. Whether it’s helping Duke win a national title or making his mark in the NBA, Cooper Flagg’s future in basketball looks incredibly bright.
