‘Same Ole Cooper’: What Cooper Flagg, Duke Basketball Said About NCAA Tournament Debut
Duke’s highly anticipated 2025 NCAA Tournament debut lived up to the hype, and one player who particularly stood out was freshman sensation Cooper Flagg. Flagg, who has been a focal point of national attention ever since committing to Duke, showed exactly why he’s considered one of the most promising talents in college basketball. After leading the Blue Devils to a dominant first-round victory, Flagg reflected on the game, his performance, and his journey to this point in his career. Despite the immense pressure, the young star made it clear that his mindset remained unchanged: “Same ole Cooper.”
A Steady Presence on the Court
Cooper Flagg has quickly emerged as one of the most impactful players in college basketball. Known for his versatility, basketball IQ, and tenacity, the freshman from Maine showed all the attributes that made him a consensus top recruit. In Duke’s 85-55 victory over Lehigh in the opening round of the NCAA Tournament, Flagg finished with 18 points, 9 rebounds, and 5 blocks, putting on a display that highlighted his all-around game. His performance was a microcosm of what Duke fans have come to expect from him: a player who can do it all on both ends of the floor.
What stood out the most was Flagg’s composure. The freshman never appeared rattled, even under the bright lights of March Madness. After the game, Flagg spoke about how he’s adjusted to the pressures of playing at such a high level. When asked about the expectations surrounding him, Flagg was unfazed, responding with a calm and self-assured demeanor: “Same ole Cooper.” His response encapsulated the humility and poise that have become trademarks of his playing style.
No Rookie Jitters
While many freshmen might have struggled with the intensity of their first NCAA Tournament game, Flagg’s performance was remarkably polished. His ability to seamlessly transition from high school to college basketball has been one of the defining stories of the season. He made it clear that his success was not merely a result of physical talent but also his mental approach to the game. “I just play my game,” Flagg said, downplaying any notion that the tournament stage was too big for him. “I’ve been preparing for this my whole life.”
Flagg’s mindset is a reflection of his upbringing and the experience he gained playing against top-tier competition before coming to Duke. His high school career in Maine helped him develop a toughness that has served him well as he adjusted to the rigors of college basketball. Despite the immense expectations, Flagg remains grounded and focused on the bigger picture: helping his team succeed in the tournament.
Duke’s Trust in Flagg
Head coach Jon Scheyer has consistently praised Flagg for his maturity and work ethic. In the postgame press conference, Scheyer emphasized how much Flagg’s performance meant to the team. “Cooper is just the same player every time he steps on the floor. He’s consistent, he plays hard, and he’s not intimidated by the moment,” Scheyer said. “That’s why we trust him so much. He’s been a huge part of our success this season, and today was no different.”
As the Blue Devils prepare for the next round, Flagg’s influence on both ends of the court will be pivotal. His ability to impact the game in so many ways—scoring, rebounding, defending, and facilitating—makes him a matchup nightmare for any opponent. Flagg’s “same ole” mentality will likely continue to serve him well as he navigates the challenges of March Madness.
Looking Ahead
Duke’s NCAA Tournament journey is just beginning, and Flagg’s debut has set the stage for what could be a memorable run. With players like Flagg leading the charge, the Blue Devils have the talent to go deep into the tournament. Flagg, however, remains focused on the team’s collective success rather than his individual accolades. As he put it succinctly, “We’re just getting started.”
In summary, Cooper Flagg’s NCAA Tournament debut was a statement performance, and his calm, confident demeanor in the face of tremendous expectations is a testament to his maturity. Despite the spotlight, Flagg remains grounded, staying true to his roots and his “same ole” mentality. As Duke continues its march through the tournament, Flagg’s all-around game will undoubtedly be a key factor in their pursuit of a national title.
