Congrats! Cooper Flagg’s Statements Awards for CBS Sports Player of the Year
Congratulations to Cooper Flagg on being named the CBS Sports Player of the Year. This accolade adds to an impressive list of honors for the Duke freshman, including the AP Player of the Year, the Oscar Robertson Award, and Freshman of the Year. cbssports.games.cbssports.com+3Duke Basketball Report+3CBSSports.com+3
Flagg’s journey to this point has been marked by exceptional performances and a dedication to excellence. Prior to his collegiate success, he was named the Gatorade Florida Boys Basketball Player of the Year during his time at Montverde Academy, where he averaged 16.1 points and 7.6 rebounds per game. Montverde Academy Athletics
His transition to Duke University has been seamless, with Flagg earning Freshman of the Week honors early in the 2024-25 season. His standout performances, including a 20-point, 12-rebound game against Louisville, have solidified his reputation as a formidable player. cbssports.games.cbssports.com+1CBSSports.com+1
Beyond his on-court achievements, Flagg has demonstrated a commitment to studying the game, drawing inspiration from teams like the 1985-86 Boston Celtics. This dedication has been complemented by mentorship from NBA veteran Kevin Love, who has praised Flagg’s poise and understanding of the game. cbssports.games.cbssports.com
As Flagg continues to develop his skills and contribute to Duke’s success, his recent accolades serve as a testament to his hard work and potential. The basketball community eagerly anticipates his future accomplishments both at the collegiate level and beyond.
From the very first tip-off of the 2024–25 NCAA basketball season, it was clear that Cooper Flagg wasn’t just another highly touted freshman — he was a generational talent with a motor and maturity beyond his years. Despite the pressure of being Duke’s most anticipated recruit since Zion Williamson, Flagg met — and exceeded — expectations, delivering game after game with a combination of polished skill and raw athleticism.
Stats That Tell the Story
By the end of the regular season, Flagg averaged an astounding 19.7 points, 9.3 rebounds, 3.1 assists, and 2.4 blocks per game. He ranked in the top 10 nationally in player efficiency rating (PER), and his defensive presence was felt across the court. Coaches and analysts alike praised his ability to read plays before they happened, drawing comparisons to elite two-way players like Kevin Garnett and Scottie Pippen.
What set Flagg apart wasn’t just the numbers, but when he delivered them. Whether it was a game-saving block against UNC or a triple-double performance in the ACC semifinals, Flagg consistently rose to the occasion under the brightest lights.
Impact on Duke’s Identity
Duke head coach Jon Scheyer credited Flagg for transforming the team’s culture: “From day one, Cooper brought a level of professionalism and intensity that rubbed off on the entire locker room. He’s the kind of player who makes everyone around him better.”
His defensive communication, selfless passing, and ability to guard 1 through 5 allowed Duke to adopt a hybrid switching scheme defensively — a rarity in the college game — and it paid off handsomely. Duke ended the regular season ranked top-5 nationally in defensive efficiency.
