Cooper Flagg Shines Bright at Final Four, Earns Spot on NCAA All-Tournament Team
HOUSTON, TX — Cooper Flagg’s star continues to rise.
In what was already a remarkable season for the Duke freshman, Flagg added a defining moment to his burgeoning legacy with a performance for the ages at the NCAA Final Four, earning a spot on the prestigious NCAA All-Tournament Team.
Flagg, who has quickly become one of the most talked-about players in college basketball, led Duke to an impressive semifinal run with his all-around brilliance on both ends of the floor. The highly anticipated matchup between the Blue Devils and Kansas, a game that many believed would determine the future of college basketball, didn’t disappoint — and neither did Flagg.
The 6’9” forward dominated in all aspects of the game, contributing 21 points, 12 rebounds, and 4 assists, while also locking down Kansas’ star player, Jalen Porter, with a series of clutch defensive plays that helped keep the game in reach. Flagg’s game-winning block on Porter in the final seconds of the second half became an instant highlight reel moment, sealing Duke’s 82-79 victory.
“Cooper is a special talent,” said Duke head coach Jon Scheyer. “He plays with an intensity and maturity beyond his years. He’s been fantastic for us all year, but what he did in the Final Four — that was next-level. He’s earned every bit of this recognition.”
A Clutch Performance
Flagg’s journey to the All-Tournament Team started long before his stellar Final Four showing. Throughout the tournament, the freshman phenom had been the centerpiece of Duke’s success. His ability to stretch the floor with his shooting touch, combined with his rebounding and defensive versatility, made him an almost impossible matchup for opponents.
Against Kansas, Flagg’s versatility was on full display. His ability to guard multiple positions — from point guards to power forwards — and his ability to step up when his team needed him most was a testament to his growth throughout the season.
“I’ve always felt I can make an impact on both ends of the floor, and Coach Scheyer has given me the freedom to play my game,” Flagg said after the game. “This is a dream come true, and I’m thankful for my teammates who have been with me every step of the way.”
The All-Tournament Team Recognition
Flagg’s inclusion on the NCAA All-Tournament Team was an inevitability after his electric play. Alongside Flagg, the All-Tournament honors went to standout players like Tyrese Jackson of Michigan State and Luca Navarro from Baylor, but it was Flagg who stole the show with his all-around performance.
His selection to the All-Tournament Team not only solidifies his status as one of the top players in the country but also raises his profile as a potential NBA lottery pick in the upcoming draft.
“This is just the beginning for Cooper,” said NBA scout Mike Schmitz. “He’s shown he can dominate on the biggest stage. His defensive awareness, coupled with his offensive versatility, makes him a unique prospect. NBA teams will be paying very close attention.”
Looking Ahead
As the tournament comes to a close, many are already speculating about Flagg’s future. The freshman has had an incredible first season at Duke, but with the NBA looming large, the question on everyone’s mind is whether he’ll declare for the draft or return for another year in college.
For now, Flagg is focused on finishing strong with Duke, with the team eyeing a national championship. Regardless of his decision, the basketball world is already watching him closely — and his future is undeniably bright.
“I’m just taking it one game at a time,” Flagg said, his humility shining through. “But I know we have the talent to go all the way. I’ll enjoy this moment, but we’re not done yet.”
