Cooper Flagg wins AP men's college basketball player of the year
- Cooper Flagg, an 18-year-old freshman at Duke University, has been named the AP men's college basketball player of the year.
- Flagg is the fourth freshman to receive this honor and has led his team in key statistical categories.
- This achievement can have significant implications for his future in professional basketball.
In April 2025, Duke freshman Cooper Flagg was recognized as the AP men's college basketball player of the year, marking a historic achievement as he became just the fourth freshman to earn this award in the 64-year history of the title. His performance during the season was extraordinary, leading Duke with impressive statistics including 18.9 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists and 1.4 steals per game, while ranking second in blocks with 1.3 as they approached the national semifinal against Houston. Flagg's journey began when he reclassified to graduate early from high school, arriving at Duke at just 17 years old. Flagg consistently exceeded expectations and showcased his skills at the collegiate level, not only establishing himself as an elite athlete but also as a competitive team player admired by coaches and peers. Despite the pressures of being a top recruit and the spotlight surrounding his athletic endeavors, Flagg demonstrated remarkable composure. His family played a crucial role in supporting and grounding him during this time. They moved to North Carolina to be closer to him as his twin brother completed his high school basketball season. This close-knit family dynamic allowed Cooper to maintain a healthy perspective on the fame and attention he garnered. His mother noted that he possesses an exceptional ability to ignore distractions and trust in his abilities on the court. As the season progressed, Flagg showed improvements in his performance. After January, his scoring average surged to 20.1 points per game and he excelled in assists and shooting percentages. His transition to college basketball was marked by determination, as he often expressed a desire to be a pioneer in his endeavors. The growth he demonstrated on and off the court resonated well with Duke's community, further enhancing his reputation as a key player for the Blue Devils. Looking ahead, Flagg is poised for a bright future, with an anticipated chance of being a top draft pick in the NBA shortly after the conclusion of the college season. Nevertheless, amid these aspirations, he remains focused on the immediate challenges ahead, particularly aiding Duke in their pursuit of a championship. The combination of high performance, personal growth, and familial support defines Cooper Flagg’s remarkable freshman year at Duke University.