Cooper Flagg, the sensational freshman forward for the Duke Blue Devils, has been named the Associated Press (AP) Men’s College Basketball Player of the Year for the 2025 season. This prestigious honor cements Flagg’s status as one of the brightest young stars in college basketball and adds to what has already been a meteoric rise for the talented freshman.
Flagg, who was already widely regarded as one of the top high school recruits in the nation before arriving at Duke, has more than lived up to the hype in his first year at the collegiate level. His incredible combination of athleticism, versatility, and basketball IQ has made him a dominant force on both ends of the floor, propelling him to the forefront of college basketball and the national conversation. His recognition as the AP Player of the Year is a testament to his exceptional performance and the impact he has had on the Blue Devils this season.
Throughout the 2025 season, Flagg has put up jaw-dropping numbers that have earned him accolades from coaches, analysts, and fans alike. His ability to contribute in virtually every facet of the game has made him a standout player in a competitive field of candidates for the Player of the Year award. On offense, Flagg has averaged 17.8 points per game, shooting a high percentage from both inside and beyond the arc. His offensive game is well-rounded, with a particular emphasis on finishing strong around the basket and creating opportunities for his teammates. Flagg’s scoring ability, combined with his exceptional court vision, has made him a key player in Duke’s offensive schemes.
However, it is on the defensive end where Flagg has truly separated himself from his peers. His shot-blocking ability, combined with his knack for disrupting passing lanes and defending multiple positions, has been nothing short of elite. Averaging 2.4 blocks per game and consistently guarding the opponent’s best player, Flagg has earned a reputation as one of the most versatile and feared defenders in college basketball. His presence in the paint has altered countless shots and led to fast-break opportunities for Duke, making him a game-changer on both ends of the court.
What sets Flagg apart from other players in the country is his ability to impact the game without the ball. His basketball IQ and instincts allow him to anticipate plays, disrupt offensive flow, and make pivotal plays at crucial moments. His leadership on the floor has been invaluable, helping Duke navigate the challenges of a rigorous schedule and positioning them as a top contender in the NCAA Tournament.
Flagg’s rise to the AP Player of the Year award is even more impressive when considering the pressure and expectations that came with his arrival at Duke. As one of the most highly recruited players in recent years, Flagg entered college with the weight of high expectations. However, rather than succumbing to the pressure, he has flourished under the spotlight, showing maturity beyond his years and proving that he is more than capable of handling the demands of elite-level basketball.
The impact of Flagg’s success extends beyond individual accolades. His performances have been instrumental in Duke’s success as a team. Under the leadership of head coach Jon Scheyer, Duke has been one of the top teams in the nation, with Flagg playing a central role in the Blue Devils’ rise to prominence. His all-around game has helped elevate the performance of his teammates, making him not only one of the most talented players in college basketball but also one of the most valuable. Duke’s success in the NCAA Tournament is expected to hinge in large part on Flagg’s continued dominance, and his Player of the Year award serves as a reflection of the central role he plays in the team’s championship aspirations.
Flagg’s recognition as the AP Men’s College Basketball Player of the Year places him in an elite group of players who have won the award in their freshman season. The honor is a rare accomplishment, as only a handful of players in the history of the sport have been able to achieve such success so early in their careers. Flagg’s name will now be etched alongside some of the greatest players to ever grace the college basketball stage, including past winners who went on to have legendary NBA careers.
With the NBA Draft fast approaching, Flagg’s stock has only continued to rise. The Player of the Year award solidifies his place as one of the top prospects in the upcoming draft, and many NBA scouts are already projecting him as a potential top-five pick. His combination of defensive prowess, offensive skill, and leadership makes him an ideal fit for the modern NBA, where versatility and the ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor are highly prized. Flagg’s performance this season has proven that he is ready to make the leap to the next level, and the Player of the Year honor further confirms his status as one of the best young talents in the world of basketball.
For Duke, Flagg’s recognition is a crowning achievement for the program, highlighting the continued success of their recruiting efforts and the development of young talent under Jon Scheyer’s leadership. As Duke prepares for their upcoming games in the NCAA Tournament, the spotlight will undoubtedly be on Flagg and his quest to help the Blue Devils capture another national championship. Flagg’s play in the tournament will be closely scrutinized, but his recognition as the AP Player of the Year has already solidified his place in college basketball history.
In a season full of standout performances, Cooper Flagg has proven to be a cut above the rest, and his award as the AP Men’s College Basketball Player of the Year is just the beginning of what promises to be a remarkable career. Whether he leads Duke to a national title or embarks on a successful NBA career, Flagg’s future in basketball is incredibly bright, and this award serves as a fitting acknowledgment of his outstanding talent and accomplishments. The best may still be yet to come for Cooper Flagg, and the basketball world will be watching closely as he continues to develop into one of the game’s most exciting young stars.