Cooper Flagg Named NABC Player and Freshman of the Year
Duke University’s Cooper Flagg has made an indelible mark on college basketball this season, earning two prestigious honors from the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC): Player of the Year and Freshman of the Year. The recognition is a testament to his outstanding performance on the court and positions Flagg among the game’s elite young talents. His achievement makes him only the second player in NABC history to claim both awards in the same season, joining the ranks of Duke’s Zion Williamson, who accomplished the feat in 2019.
Flagg’s season has been nothing short of spectacular. The 6’10” forward from Maine has been a dominant force for the Blue Devils, leading the team in several key statistical categories, including points, rebounds, assists, and steals. His all-around contributions have been instrumental in Duke’s success, guiding them to the Final Four as one of the top teams in college basketball. Flagg’s versatility has allowed him to excel in both offensive and defensive situations, making him a constant threat on both ends of the floor.
The NABC Player of the Year award is given to the player who has made the most significant impact in college basketball over the course of the season, and Flagg certainly fits that description. He has consistently been a standout performer for Duke, ranking among the top ten in the ACC in multiple categories. Flagg finished the season third in scoring with an impressive 682 points, while also contributing 271 rebounds and 151 assists. His ability to do it all is a rare skill for a player of his age, and it has earned him the respect of coaches, players, and fans alike.
One of the defining moments of Flagg’s freshman year came during a thrilling game against Notre Dame on January 11, when he set a Duke and ACC freshman single-game scoring record with 42 points. This extraordinary performance highlighted his offensive prowess and demonstrated his ability to take over games when it matters most. Beyond scoring, Flagg’s 50 steals and 39 blocked shots underscored his defensive excellence, showcasing his relentless effort to impact the game in every facet.
Flagg’s accomplishments have not gone unnoticed by other basketball organizations. In addition to the NABC honors, he has also been awarded the Oscar Robertson Trophy and the Wayman Tisdale Award from the U.S. Basketball Writers Association (USBWA), further solidifying his status as the best freshman in the country. These accolades only add to the growing list of achievements for the young star, who is quickly becoming a household name in the world of college basketball.
As Duke heads into the Final Four, Flagg’s presence will be critical to their championship hopes. The Blue Devils will face a formidable Houston team, but with Flagg leading the charge, they will be confident in their chances. His leadership and ability to perform in clutch moments make him a key player to watch as the tournament continues.
Flagg’s success this season has set the stage for what promises to be an incredible career. As he continues to develop, he is sure to be a top contender for future national player of the year honors and a high NBA draft pick. For now, though, he is enjoying the fruits of a remarkable freshman year and looking to guide his team to even greater glory on the national stage.
