In a season already brimming with remarkable achievements, Duke University’s freshman sensation, Cooper Flagg, has once again etched his name into the annals of Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) history. In a commanding 80-62 victory over Virginia, Flagg not only secured his seventh double-double of the season but also became the first ACC player in 25 years to amass over 500 points, 100 assists, and 30 blocks in a single season.
A Historic Performance Against Virginia
On February 17, 2025, the Blue Devils faced off against the Virginia Cavaliers in a highly anticipated ACC matchup. Flagg delivered an outstanding performance, contributing 17 points and a career-high 14 rebounds. His efforts were instrumental in Duke’s decisive win, which not only bolstered their conference standing but also showcased the team’s offensive prowess and defensive resilience.
Flagg’s ability to impact multiple facets of the game was on full display. Beyond his scoring and rebounding, he provided critical assists and defensive plays that stifled Virginia’s offensive efforts. This all-around performance underscored his versatility and basketball IQ, qualities that have become hallmarks of his freshman campaign.
Breaking Long-Standing ACC Records
Flagg’s recent accomplishment of surpassing 500 points, 100 assists, and 30 blocks in a single season is a testament to his exceptional talent and consistency. This milestone, achieved for the first time in a quarter-century within the ACC, highlights his unique blend of offensive and defensive skills. Such a feat not only distinguishes him from his contemporaries but also places him among the elite players in the conference’s storied history.
A Season of Record-Breaking Achievements
This latest milestone adds to a series of record-breaking performances by Flagg throughout the season. Notably, on January 12, 2025, he set a new ACC freshman single-game scoring record by dropping 42 points against Notre Dame. In that game, Flagg showcased his offensive efficiency by shooting 11-of-14 from the field, including 4-of-6 from beyond the arc, and an impressive 16-of-17 from the free-throw line.
His 42-point outburst not only broke the previous ACC freshman scoring record but also solidified his reputation as a formidable offensive force. Flagg’s ability to perform at such a high level under pressure speaks volumes about his maturity and readiness for the professional stage.
The Road Ahead: NBA Prospects and Potential Decisions
As the season progresses, speculation about Flagg’s future intensifies. Projected as a potential No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming NBA Draft, his decision to declare for the draft or return for another collegiate season is a topic of considerable discussion. Despite the allure of a lucrative NBA contract, Flagg has expressed the possibility of returning to Duke, citing personal growth and team development as factors in his decision-making process.
Flagg’s current Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals amount to $4.3 million, the highest in college basketball, which provides a substantial incentive to remain at the collegiate level. However, the potential $11.5 million rookie salary in the NBA presents a compelling argument for making the leap to the professional ranks. His decision will undoubtedly have significant implications, not only for his career but also for the future dynamics of college basketball and the NBA Draft landscape.
Impact on Duke’s Season and Team Dynamics
Flagg’s contributions have been pivotal to Duke’s success this season. His leadership on and off the court has galvanized the team, fostering a culture of excellence and resilience. Teammates have lauded his work ethic and unselfish play, noting that his presence elevates the performance of those around him.
Head Coach Jon Scheyer has praised Flagg’s maturity and adaptability, highlighting his seamless transition to the collegiate game and his ability to handle the pressures that come with being a high-profile athlete. Flagg’s performances have not only led to team victories but have also reignited excitement among the Duke fanbase, drawing comparisons to some of the program’s all-time greats.
National Recognition and Awards
Flagg’s exceptional play has not gone unnoticed on the national stage. He is a leading candidate for several prestigious awards, including the National Player of the Year. His statistical achievements, combined with his impact on Duke’s success, make a compelling case for such honors. Analysts and commentators have noted that Flagg’s blend of skill, athleticism, and basketball intelligence is rare, especially for a freshman, and positions him as a standout player in collegiate basketball.
Cooper Flagg Adds to His Spectacular Freshman Campaign by Breaking Two More ACC Records
In what has already been a historic freshman campaign, Duke University’s Cooper Flagg continues to make headlines with his unprecedented performances. On February 17, 2025, in a dominant 80-62 victory over the Virginia Cavaliers, Flagg not only notched another double-double but also shattered two more Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) records, cementing his status as one of the most electrifying players in college basketball.
A Performance for the Ages
Entering the game against Virginia, Flagg had already built an impressive resume, consistently displaying elite scoring, rebounding, and defensive abilities. The highly anticipated matchup saw him put on yet another show, finishing with 17 points, a career-high 14 rebounds, and five assists. His defensive impact was equally remarkable, as he contributed three blocks and two steals, further solidifying his reputation as a two-way force.
Flagg’s performance not only led Duke to a crucial conference win but also marked another milestone in his young career. By the end of the night, he had set new ACC records for the most points by a freshman in a single season and the most combined blocks and steals in a freshman campaign. These achievements place him in elite company, surpassing marks previously held by some of the greatest players in ACC history.
Breaking the ACC Freshman Points Record
Flagg’s ability to score at an elite level has been evident from the beginning of the season. His versatility allows him to score from all areas of the floor—whether it be in the paint, from mid-range, or beyond the arc. Heading into the Virginia matchup, he was just 14 points shy of breaking the previous ACC freshman scoring record, which had stood for nearly two decades. His 17-point performance not only secured the record but also reinforced his status as a future NBA prospect.
The record was previously held by former Duke standout Zion Williamson, who set the mark during his own legendary freshman season in 2018-19. Flagg’s consistency and ability to take over games have drawn comparisons to some of the greatest freshmen to ever play in the ACC, and this milestone further solidifies those comparisons.
Setting the New Blocks and Steals Record
While Flagg’s scoring prowess has been widely recognized, his defensive abilities are what truly set him apart. A rare combination of size, athleticism, and basketball IQ allows him to be a dominant rim protector while also disrupting passing lanes and forcing turnovers.
With his three blocks and two steals against Virginia, Flagg officially surpassed the ACC record for the most combined blocks and steals in a freshman season. The previous record was held by Chris Bosh, who set the mark during his lone season at Georgia Tech in 2002-03. Flagg’s defensive impact has been a game-changer for Duke, as he consistently alters shots, shuts down top scorers, and generates transition opportunities for his team.
A Season for the History Books
Flagg’s impact on Duke basketball cannot be overstated. Beyond his individual accolades, he has played a crucial role in the Blue Devils’ success this season. Duke currently sits near the top of the ACC standings, with Flagg playing a key role in their pursuit of a conference title and a deep NCAA Tournament run.
His season statistics are staggering: he is averaging 19.5 points, 9.2 rebounds, 3.1 assists, 2.7 blocks, and 1.8 steals per game. These numbers not only rank among the best in the ACC but also make him a leading candidate for multiple national awards, including the Naismith College Player of the Year and the Karl Malone Award for the nation’s best power forward.
Comparisons to ACC Legends
When looking at Flagg’s freshman season, comparisons to past ACC greats are inevitable. His dominance on both ends of the floor has drawn parallels to players like Zion Williamson, Kevin Durant (during his time in the Big 12 with Texas), and Anthony Davis. However, what makes Flagg unique is his ability to seamlessly blend multiple aspects of the game—scoring, rebounding, passing, and elite defense—all while playing with the composure of a seasoned veteran.
His defensive versatility, in particular, has led many to compare him to NBA stars like Giannis Antetokounmpo and Jaren Jackson Jr., as he can guard multiple positions while serving as an elite rim protector. If he continues on this trajectory, Flagg is on pace to become one of the most decorated players in college basketball history.
The Road Ahead
With the regular season winding down, Flagg and the Blue Devils have their sights set on finishing strong and making a deep postseason run. The ACC Tournament looms large, and Duke will be one of the favorites to capture the conference title, thanks in no small part to Flagg’s all-around dominance.
Beyond the ACC Tournament, the NCAA Tournament presents an opportunity for Flagg to showcase his talents on the national stage. Given his ability to take over games, he could be the difference-maker in Duke’s quest for a national championship. His performances in March will also play a key role in solidifying his NBA Draft stock, where he is already projected as a top-three pick in the upcoming draft.