Cooper Flagg‘s memorable freshman journey at Duke ended one step short of the national championship, but his impact on the 2024-25 college basketball season was undeniable.
The 17-year-old phenom led the Blue Devils into the Final Four with a dominant run through March Madness, only to fall in heartbreaking fashion to Houston, 70-67, after surrendering a six-point lead in the final minute of regulation.
Flagg, who was visibly emotional postgame, shouldered the pain of the loss with the maturity of a seasoned veteran. Speaking to the media after the buzzer, the projected No. 1 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft reflected on the journey rather than the stumble at the finish line.
“Didn’t end the way we wanted it to, but still an incredible year,” Flagg said.
In the loss to Houston, Flagg delivered once again, dropping 27 points, along with seven rebounds and four assists, keeping Duke in the fight until the final horn. Despite the individual brilliance, the Blue Devils fell short after being outscored 9-0 in the final 48 seconds of the game.
Throughout the 2024-25 campaign, Flagg was a force of nature for Duke. He led the team in points (18.9 PPG), rebounds (7.5 RPG), and assists (4.2 APG), establishing himself as one of the most well-rounded players in the country-and perhaps the most NBA-ready freshman since Zion Williamson.
Flagg‘s performances earned him a place among college basketball’s elite. He swept several national honors, including the AP National Player of the Year, NABC Player of the Year, and the prestigious John R. Wooden Award.
He remains a finalist for the Naismith Player of the Year, with many expecting him to take home that accolade as well.
Flagg expected to be No.1 NBA Draft pick
Despite Duke‘s late-game collapse, Flagg‘s stock remains untarnished. His name sits at the top of every credible 2025 NBA Draft board, and while he hasn’t officially declared, most insiders believe the game against Houston was his last in a Blue Devils jersey.
“Yeah, I mean, it was an incredible season. Incredible people, I mean, good relationships that I am gonna have for the rest of my life,” Flagg said.
Whether or not he returns to college basketball next season, Flagg‘s short time at Duke has already left a lasting legacy. His talent, poise, and leadership under pressure suggest that his journey is only just beginning-just on a bigger stage next time.
