Duke freshman Cooper Flagg has quickly become the talk of college basketball, dazzling fans and critics alike with his all-around game and jaw-dropping highlights. From his ability to score and rebound to his knack for delivering electrifying dunks, Flagg is putting together one of the most impressive freshman campaigns in recent memory.
One of the loudest voices praising Flagg is none other than legendary Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski. Speaking on his show, Basketball & Beyond with Coach K, Krzyzewski didnโt hold back in his assessment of the 18-year-old, labeling him as โthe best player in the country.โ
โHeโs such a great teammate,โ Krzyzewski said. โYou can see it on the bench. He has joy for his teammates. And heโs only 18โฆ He knows all this stuff. Heโs joyful with his group. Heโs not joyful with the opponent. Heโs a hell of a competitor. Heโs the best player in the country.โ
Flaggโs numbers back up Coach Kโs glowing endorsement. The projected No. 1 pick in the NBA draft is averaging 18.7 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game, while also contributing over a steal and a block on defense. These type of stats have helped Duke secure a 15-2 record so far this season, with the Blue Devils holding the No. 3 spot in the rankings.
Just last week, Flagg delivered a performance for the ages, scoring 42 points in a win over Notre Dame, setting the ACCโs single-game scoring record for a freshman. The feat not only highlighted his scoring ability but also cemented his reputation as one of the top players in the nation, regardless of class.
For a program with a storied history of star players, Flaggโs early dominance has put him in rarefied air, drawing comparisons to some of the all-time greats whoโve worn Duke blue. With many hoping his impressive performances continue, the expectations will likewise enhance.
