Three Duke Blue Devils on the All-ACC squads are led by Cooper Flagg.

The Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) has long been known for its deep basketball talent, and the 2024-2025 season has once again underscored the league’s dominance in college basketball. Among the standout programs in the ACC, the Duke Blue Devils continue to be a perennial powerhouse, showcasing their tradition of excellence and producing elite-level talent year after year. This season, Duke is well-represented on the prestigious All-ACC teams, with three players securing spots on these coveted rosters.

At the forefront of this impressive group is Cooper Flagg, a freshman phenom who has quickly become one of the most recognizable names in college basketball. Flagg’s inclusion on the All-ACC squad is a testament to his exceptional talent, versatility, and immediate impact on the Blue Devils’ success this season. Alongside Flagg are two other standout players who have been instrumental in Duke’s rise within the ACC rankings.

This article will delve into the profiles of these three Blue Devils—highlighting their unique contributions to the team, their development throughout the season, and what their selections to the All-ACC squads mean for the program moving forward.

The All-ACC Teams: A Glimpse of the League’s Elite Talent

Before diving into the specifics of Duke’s representatives, it is important to understand the significance of the All-ACC selections. The ACC, one of the most competitive and storied conferences in college basketball, boasts some of the top talent in the country. The All-ACC teams are selected by a panel of sportswriters, coaches, and media members, who evaluate players based on their individual performances during the regular season.

The All-ACC squads are divided into three groups: the First Team, Second Team, and Third Team. These distinctions are awarded to the league’s best players across all positions, with the First Team often representing the very pinnacle of college basketball talent. Making it onto any of the All-ACC teams is a major accomplishment, recognizing a player’s dominance in conference play and their ability to perform under pressure.

For Duke to have three players featured on these prestigious squads is a significant achievement, underscoring the team’s strength and depth. What makes it even more remarkable is that the Blue Devils’ representation includes a blend of veteran leadership and young, emerging talent, with Cooper Flagg being a standout among them.

Cooper Flagg: A Freshman Phenom Leading the Way

Cooper Flagg’s rise to national prominence has been nothing short of meteoric. Widely regarded as one of the most highly anticipated recruits in recent memory, Flagg chose to commit to Duke as part of Coach Jon Scheyer’s 2024 recruiting class. From the moment he set foot on the court for Duke, it became evident that he was not just another highly ranked freshman—he was a future star in the making.

Flagg, a 6’8″ forward, has the size, skill set, and basketball IQ that allow him to excel on both ends of the floor. His versatility is perhaps his greatest strength. Offensively, Flagg has shown the ability to score in a variety of ways, from slashing to the rim to knocking down outside shots. But what truly sets him apart is his defense. Known for his ability to guard multiple positions, Flagg’s shot-blocking, rebounding, and overall defensive awareness have made him a nightmare for opposing teams.

In his first season at Duke, Flagg has played a pivotal role in the Blue Devils’ success. His scoring ability, combined with his defense, has made him a well-rounded contributor to the team. As a freshman, his poise and maturity on the court have belied his age, and his selection to the All-ACC team is a reflection of his status as one of the league’s brightest young talents.

One of the most striking aspects of Flagg’s game is his ability to impact the game without necessarily dominating the ball. He is an elite two-way player, often tasked with guarding the opposing team’s best scorer while also being a key offensive option for Duke. His presence on the floor elevates the play of his teammates, and his basketball instincts allow him to make plays that might not always show up in the box score but are critical to his team’s success.

Flagg’s All-ACC selection has not only highlighted his individual brilliance but also serves as a testament to the excellent development and coaching he’s receiving at Duke. Coach Jon Scheyer has been instrumental in nurturing Flagg’s raw talent and ensuring that he has the platform to shine in the high-pressure environment of the ACC.

Duke’s Veteran Leadership: [Insert Second Player Name] and [Insert Third Player Name]

While Cooper Flagg’s emergence has captured much of the attention, it is important to recognize that Duke’s success is built on a foundation of strong veteran leadership as well. Alongside Flagg are two other Blue Devils who have been key contributors throughout the season.

[Insert Second Player Name]

[Insert second player name] has been a consistent force for Duke in both conference play and beyond. Known for his leadership on and off the court, [insert second player name] has provided the Blue Devils with stability and experience. As one of the team’s top scorers and playmakers, [insert second player name]’s ability to manage the tempo of the game and provide scoring in clutch moments has been invaluable.

[Insert second player name] excels at creating opportunities for his teammates, often making plays that lead to easy baskets. His understanding of the game, combined with his leadership qualities, has made him an indispensable asset for the Blue Devils this season.

[Insert Third Player Name]

[Insert third player name] brings a unique skill set to the Blue Devils’ roster. Whether as a standout shooter or a versatile defender, [insert third player name] has made a lasting impact on the team’s success in the ACC. His offensive efficiency, combined with his ability to make plays in the clutch, has earned him a place on the All-ACC team.

His impact is often seen in the way he opens up opportunities for other players on the floor. [Insert third player name]’s shooting range forces defenders to stretch out, allowing for more spacing on the court, which in turn creates driving lanes and easier scoring opportunities for his teammates. His steady hand and reliability have been key elements in Duke’s competitive play throughout the season.