Duke University’s Cooper Flagg has made history by becoming the fourth player in Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) history to win both the Player of the Year and Rookie of the Year awards in the same season. This impressive feat was achieved during the 2024-2025 season, where Flagg showcased his exceptional skills as a freshman guard/forward.

 

*Flagg’s Achievements:*

 

– *ACC Player of the Year*: Flagg received 76 votes to win the award, beating out Stanford’s Maxime Raynaud.

– *ACC Rookie of the Year*: Flagg garnered 79 votes, with California’s Jeremiah Wilkinson receiving 2 votes.

– *All-ACC First Team*: Flagg earned a spot on the All-ACC First Team with 400 voting points.

– *ACC All-Defensive Team*: Flagg was named to the ACC All-Defensive Team, finishing second in the voting for ACC Defensive Player of the Year.

– *ACC All-Rookie Team*: Flagg was joined by teammates Kon Knueppel and Khaman Maluach on the ACC All-Rookie Team ¹.

 

*Record-Breaking Freshman Season:*

 

Flagg’s remarkable performance included ¹ ²:

– Averaging 18.3 points, 9.4 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks per game

– Leading Duke in points (602), rebounds (235), assists (131), steals (47), and blocks (39)

– Becoming the youngest player in NCAA history to post a 40-point game with 42 points against Notre Dame

– Sweeping ACC Player and Rookie of the Week honors five times, a conference record

 

*National Recognition:*

 

Flagg’s impressive season has also earned him national recognition, including the USBWA National Player of the Year (Oscar Robertson Trophy) and National Freshman of the Year (Wayman Tisdale Award) awards. He will be formally presented with these awards on April 17 at the USBWA Awards Dinner ².

 

With Flagg’s exceptional talent and leadership, Duke is poised for a deep run in the NCAA tournament. His achievements serve as a testament to his hard work and dedication, solidifying his position as one of the top players in college basketball.