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3w ago

Cooper Flagg Wins AP Player of the Year as Duke Faces Houston in Final Four

The 18-year-old Duke freshman phenom, projected as the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, leads his team into a pivotal NCAA semifinal showdown against the nation's top defensive team.

Mar 27, 2025; Newark, NJ, USA; Duke Blue Devils forward Cooper Flagg (2) reacts after a play during the first half against the Arizona Wildcats during an East Regional semifinal of the 2025 NCAA tournament at Prudential Center. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images/File Photo
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Overview

  • Cooper Flagg was named the Associated Press Men's College Basketball Player of the Year, becoming only the fourth freshman in history to earn the honor.
  • Flagg has led Duke to the Final Four, averaging 18.9 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game this season, while excelling in the NCAA Tournament with standout performances.
  • Duke, boasting a 35-3 record under coach Jon Scheyer, will face Houston, the top-rated defensive team in the country, in a highly anticipated semifinal matchup.
  • Houston's defensive strategy focuses on limiting Flagg's scoring opportunities and forcing him into uncomfortable positions, with Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year Joseph Tugler playing a key role.
  • Flagg is widely projected as the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, capping a historic season that began with his decision to reclassify and join Duke as an 18-year-old freshman.