Cooper Flagg looks to make history as the freshman redefining Duke’s legacy

A team is more than just one player—it’s about everyone working together seamlessly. Yet, the Duke Blue Devils possess a formidable weapon in their lineup: Cooper Flagg. This young athlete is one of the team’s standout stars, and as the season progresses, his performance is increasingly recognized across the board.

Flagg has earned his title as this year’s freshman sensation, and he truly deserves it. Just last week, speculation swirled that Cooper Flagg might miss his next NCAA Tournament game due to an injury sustained in the ACC quarterfinals. However, while he did miss a few games, the young prodigy made a powerful comeback, helping position his team among the top contenders.

Big news for Cooper Flagg

Although he’s already made a remarkable impression throughout the season, Tuesday brought tangible proof of Cooper Flagg’s success. Duke’s star was announced as a finalist for the 2025 Jersey Mike’s Naismith Men’s College Player of the Year award.

Voting is open for the @NaismithTrophy Men’s Player of the Year and YOUR vote contributes to deciding the winner 🏆

Vote in our poll and here: 👉 https://t.co/cBq1RowvPe

— NCAA March Madness (@MarchMadnessMBB) March 25, 2025

This recognition adds further momentum to Cooper Flagg’s performance as he continues to cement his status as the projected No. 1 pick in the upcoming NBA draft. Notably, Flagg stands out as the only freshman among the finalists.

Joining Cooper Flagg as contenders for this prestigious award are Florida’s Walter Clayton Jr. (senior). They also appear Purdue’s Braden Smith (junior), and Auburn’s Johni Broome (fifth-year). The competition is stiff, but if Flagg secures the win, he would make history as just the fourth freshman to ever earn this honor.

A milestone among legends

This achievement, if attained by Cooper Flagg. Would place him alongside some of the greatest names in basketball who have also achieved this feat in their freshman year. Among them are Zion Williamson, Kevin Durant, and Anthony Davis.

Taking into account both male and female athletes. Cooper Flagg would be the fifth freshman to receive this distinction, joining UConn’s Paige Bueckers, who won in 2021.

Cooper Flagg’s stats speak for themselves. While the competition is fierce, Duke’s 18-year-old star averages 18.7 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.4 steals, and 1.3 blocks per game. Many predict that he is the key player who could lead his team to their first title in 10 seasons. The real test comes Thursday when Duke faces the Arizona Wildcats. Will they triumph and keep their championship dreams alive?.