Duke Star Cooper Flagg Poised for SpotlightMadison Square Garden
The freshman phenom, averaging nearly 20 points per game, leads Duke against Illinois while weighing his NBA Draft decision.
- Cooper Flagg, an 18-year-old Duke freshman, is widely projected as the No. 1 pick in the upcoming NBA Draft, thanks to his exceptional all-around game and leadership.
- Flagg is averaging 19.7 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game, leading Duke in every major statistical category—a feat no freshman has achieved in NCAA history.
- Despite his draft prospects, Flagg has hinted at the possibility of returning to Duke for another season, sparking speculation about his future plans.
- Duke, ranked No. 3 nationally, faces Illinois at Madison Square Garden on Saturday, with Flagg set to compete against fellow top draft prospect Kasparas Jakucionis.
- Flagg's rise has drawn comparisons to former college basketball stars like Kevin Durant and Zion Williamson, with scouts praising his instincts, defensive prowess, and unselfish play.