The 2024–25 college basketball season was poised to be a defining chapter in Duke University’s storied history. With the arrival of freshman phenom Cooper Flagg, expectations soared. Flagg, a 6’9″ forward from Maine, quickly became the centerpiece of the Blue Devils’ lineup, leading them to the Final Four. However, what seemed like a fairytale ending turned into a nightmare as Duke suffered a heartbreaking loss in the national semifinals, leaving fans and players grappling with the aftermath.
The Rise of Cooper Flagg
Flagg’s impact was immediate and undeniable. He averaged 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists, and 1.4 blocks per game, earning both ACC Player of the Year and ACC Rookie of the Year honors—the first Duke player since 1986 to achieve such a feat. His versatility and leadership were instrumental in Duke’s journey to the Final Four. In the Sweet 16, Flagg delivered a stellar performance with 30 points, 6 rebounds, and 7 assists in a 100–93 victory over Arizona. He followed that with 16 points and 9 rebounds in the Elite Eight, propelling Duke to a commanding 85–65 win over Alabama.
The Final Four Heartbreak
On April 5, 2025, Duke faced the Houston Cougars in the Final Four. The game was a rollercoaster of emotions, with both teams exchanging leads throughout. With mere seconds remaining, Duke led by two points, and the ball was in Flagg’s hands. He drove into the paint and attempted a fadeaway jumper that rimmed out, sealing Duke’s fate with a 70–67 loss. Flagg, visibly emotional, expressed his frustration and poise in the postgame press conference, acknowledging the missed opportunity but emphasizing the team’s collective effort.
The Aftermath and Reaction
The loss sent shockwaves through the college basketball community. Critics and fans alike were quick to voice their opinions. Dave Portnoy, founder of Barstool Sports, publicly criticized Duke, calling them “choking dog losers” after a controversial foul call on Flagg late in the game. Despite the criticism, Flagg’s teammates and coaches rallied behind him, praising his leadership and resilience throughout the season.
Looking Ahead: The NBA Draft
In the days following the Final Four, Flagg announced his decision to declare for the 2025 NBA Draft. In an emotional Instagram post, he expressed gratitude for his time at Duke, calling it “the best year of my life,” and stated that joining the NBA was the next step in his journey. Widely regarded as a likely top-three pick, Flagg’s decision was met with widespread support from fans, teammates, and even NFL star Micah Parsons.
Duke’s 2024–25 season was a testament to the power of teamwork, resilience, and the emergence of a new star in Cooper Flagg. While the Final Four loss was a devastating setback, it highlighted the team’s growth and potential. As Flagg embarks on his professional journey, the legacy of this season will undoubtedly inspire future generations of Blue Devils.
