A Season to Remember: Cooper Flagg and the Duke Blue Devils’ Historic Journey

On April 5, 2025, in San Antonio, the Duke Blue Devils faced a heartbreaking 70–67 loss to the Houston Cougars in the NCAA Final Four. Despite the defeat, the season was nothing short of extraordinary, highlighted by the remarkable performance of freshman phenom Cooper Flagg.

The Rise of Cooper Flagg

Hailing from Maine, Cooper Flagg’s journey to Duke was marked by anticipation and acclaim. As the No. 1 recruit in the nation, he chose Duke over other prestigious programs, signaling the beginning of a new era for the Blue Devils. Flagg’s impact was immediate; in his debut against Maine, he scored 18 points, grabbed seven rebounds, and dished out five assists, showcasing his all-around game .

Throughout the season, Flagg continued to impress. He set a new freshman scoring record for Duke with a 42-point performance against Notre Dame, coupled with six rebounds and seven assists. His versatility was evident as he led the team in points, rebounds, and assists, becoming the only player in the country to do so.

Flagg’s accolades included being named the ACC Player of the Year and Rookie of the Year, joining the ranks of Duke legends like Zion Williamson and Marvin Bagley III . He also received the prestigious Maxwell Award, further cementing his status as one of college basketball’s brightest stars

Duke’s Stellar Season

Under the guidance of head coach Jon Scheyer, the Blue Devils had a season to remember. They finished with a 19–1 record in the ACC, clinching the regular-season title. Their tournament run was equally impressive, with victories over Mount St. Mary’s, Baylor, Arizona, and Alabama, propelling them to the Final Four

Despite the loss to Houston, the team’s resilience and unity were evident. Coach Scheyer praised Flagg’s leadership and the team’s collective effort, stating, “It’s been a magical ride.” The Blue Devils’ performance throughout the season reflected their growth and potential, setting the stage for future success.

Looking Ahead

As the season concludes, attention turns to the future. Cooper Flagg’s decision regarding the NBA draft remains a topic of speculation. While he has yet to announce his plans, his stellar freshman year has solidified his status as a top prospect .

For Duke, the arrival of the Boozer twins, sons of former star Carlos Boozer, adds to the excitement. Cameron and Cayden Boozer are expected to make immediate impacts, continuing the legacy of excellence at Duke

A Final Word

While the season ended in disappointment, the journey was filled with moments of brilliance and promise. Cooper Flagg’s exceptional talent and leadership have left an indelible mark on Duke basketball. As the Blue Devils look to the future, the foundation laid this season promises even greater achievements ahead.

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