The Atlantic Coast Conference has officially made its position clear: Cooper Flagg isn’t just one of the brightest young stars in college basketball — he’s already one of the most important players in the league’s modern history. Following a record-breaking freshman season that captured the imagination of fans across the country, the ACC announced on Thursday a sweeping slate of honors, initiatives, and recognitions centered around the Duke forward, marking an unprecedented acknowledgment of a freshman athlete’s impact on the conference and sport as a whole.
In a press release that quickly set social media on fire and sparked reactions from coaches, players, and analysts alike, the ACC confirmed that Flagg has been unanimously selected as the 2025 ACC Player of the Year and ACC Freshman of the Year — becoming the first player in conference history to win both awards outright in the same season. While that alone would have been enough to solidify Flagg’s legacy as a generational talent, the announcement went far beyond simple accolades. In what is being described as a “historic institutional acknowledgment,” the conference is rolling out a long-term branding initiative centered around Flagg, including academic partnerships, a youth development program in his name, and the introduction of the “Flagg Impact Award,” to be given annually to the player who best exemplifies excellence, leadership, and community involvement within the ACC.
It is a recognition typically reserved for legends long after they’ve left the hardwood, not 18-year-olds fresh off their first college season. But in the case of Cooper Flagg, it’s a reflection of just how transcendent and transformative his presence has already been.
From the moment he stepped onto the court at Cameron Indoor Stadium, Flagg was a revelation. The 6-foot-9 forward from Newport, Maine, entered college basketball as the No. 1 overall recruit in the country and somehow exceeded the hype. Night after night, he dazzled with a rare blend of skill, IQ, athleticism, and intensity that made him appointment viewing in a crowded sports calendar. He led the Blue Devils to a 32-6 record, an ACC Tournament title, and a Final Four appearance while averaging 19.4 points, 9.1 rebounds, 3.4 assists, 2.7 blocks, and 1.8 steals per game.
His defensive presence was game-changing. His ability to guard every position, erase shots at the rim, and disrupt passing lanes turned Duke into one of the nation’s most feared defensive units. Offensively, he played with a polish and poise beyond his years — operating as both a primary scorer and a connective passer who made the right reads in the biggest moments. From the 29-point, 12-rebound explosion against North Carolina to the jaw-dropping block that sealed an Elite Eight win over Arizona, Flagg’s freshman campaign was littered with signature moments that already feel like part of ACC lore.
It’s not just the numbers or the highlights that make Flagg so magnetic — it’s the way he carries himself. Quietly confident, fiercely competitive, and team-first in every interaction, Flagg quickly earned the respect of opponents and admiration of fans. He became a leader in the locker room, a mentor to younger players, and a face of college basketball that transcended regional loyalty. From ESPN to local broadcasts, he was everywhere. The ACC, recognizing the once-in-a-generation opportunity, is moving to ensure his influence lasts well beyond his time at Duke.
The newly announced “Flagg Impact Award” is just one example. Designed to highlight the role of student-athletes in shaping their communities, the award will be given annually to the ACC player who best represents the values of service, leadership, and character. The conference has committed to a long-term investment in community outreach efforts under Flagg’s name, including basketball camps, youth clinics, and mentorship programs across the ACC’s footprint. Flagg, who has already been involved in volunteer work during his time at Duke, is expected to play an active role in shaping the program.
In addition to the award, the ACC also revealed plans to integrate Flagg into a new branding campaign titled “Next is Now,” which will showcase the current and future stars of the league. The campaign — set to launch this summer — will feature Flagg prominently in digital media, television broadcasts, and educational partnerships that aim to connect student-athletes with fans on a deeper level. According to ACC Commissioner Jim Phillips, the initiative is designed to celebrate the “profound cultural and competitive impact” of players like Flagg who raise the standard for what it means to be a student-athlete.
Phillips spoke glowingly during a Thursday morning press conference.
“There are moments in sports when you realize you’re watching something different — something rare. That’s what Cooper Flagg has brought to this conference from the moment he arrived at Duke. He’s not only redefined expectations on the court, but he’s also embraced the responsibility that comes with being a leader off of it. His maturity, humility, and drive to elevate everyone around him are everything we want this conference to represent.”
The praise didn’t stop there. Coaches across the ACC — including rivals — weighed in with admiration. North Carolina head coach Hubert Davis called Flagg “the most complete freshman we’ve played against in my tenure” and said the rivalry games felt “elevated” with Flagg on the floor. Virginia’s Tony Bennett, known for his defensive mind, said Flagg’s versatility “forces you to rethink schemes in real-time.” Even legendary former Duke head coach Mike Krzyzewski weighed in on a national radio appearance, saying Flagg reminded him of “a young Grant Hill with an even sharper defensive motor.”
Flagg, ever modest, released a short statement in response to the ACC’s announcement, thanking his coaches, teammates, and the Duke community.
“I’m honored and humbled by the ACC’s recognition. This season has been the most special time of my life, and it’s been a privilege to wear Duke blue and compete in this amazing conference. Everything I’ve achieved is a reflection of my teammates, coaches, and the support I’ve received every step of the way. I’m grateful and motivated to keep growing — on the court and off.”
That motivation has already led to another headline-making decision: Flagg announced earlier this week that he is returning to Duke for his sophomore season, turning down a massive $7.5 million NIL offer from other programs in the process. His return has elevated Duke to the consensus No. 1 team in preseason rankings and solidified the Blue Devils as the early favorite for the 2026 national championship.
With Flagg back in the fold, the ACC is poised for another marquee season. The league, which had been under scrutiny in recent years for underperformance in the NCAA Tournament and inconsistent national relevance, now has its centerpiece — and a reason for optimism. Flagg’s continued presence will drive ratings, attendance, and competitiveness across the board. The ripple effects are already being felt. Ticket prices for Duke games are soaring. National broadcasts are adjusting their schedules to feature more ACC matchups. And NIL collectives around the conference are recalibrating their strategies to match the Flagg-led arms race.
For Flagg, the accolades and attention don’t appear to be changing the mission. Those close to him say he remains laser-focused on winning a national title and improving his game in preparation for the 2026 NBA Draft, where he’s already projected as the No. 1 pick. But even if his future lies in the NBA, his impact on college basketball — and the ACC in particular — is already immortalized.
In just one season, Cooper Flagg has become the face of a conference, the heartbeat of a storied program, and a beacon of excellence that others now aspire to follow. The ACC’s announcement is a testament not just to what he’s done — but what he represents.
And if this freshman campaign is only the beginning, the college basketball world should buckle up. The Cooper Flagg era is just getting started.