Duke’s Cooper Flagg Makes History with Wooden Award Win
In a remarkable turn of events, Duke‘s Cooper Flagg has etched his name in the annals of college basketball history by clinching the 2025 Wooden Award. This prestigious accolade, awarded annually to the best college basketball player in the country, was announced on ESPN’s College GameDay this past Saturday. Flagg’s victory is particularly noteworthy as he becomes just the fourth freshman ever to receive this honor.
The competition was fierce, with Flagg narrowly surpassing Auburn‘s Johni Broome. Other finalists included Florida‘s Walter Clayton Jr., Alabama‘s Mark Sears, and Purdue‘s Braden Smith. Each of these players had an outstanding season, but it was Flagg’s consistent dominance that set him apart.
Flagg’s journey to the Wooden Award has been nothing short of spectacular. He emerged as a favorite during the latter half of the season, leading Duke to both the ACC regular-season and conference tournament championships. This achievement marked Duke’s first Final Four appearance since the legendary Mike Krzyzewski retired. Flagg’s accolades this season include being named both ACC Player of the Year and Rookie of the Year. With such a stellar performance, he is the clear-cut leader to be selected No. 1 in June’s NBA draft.
As of now, Flagg is averaging 18.9 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists. His standout performance came in January against Notre Dame, where he set the ACC freshman record for points in a game with an astonishing 42 points, 6 rebounds, and 7 assists. This game was part of an incredible month for Flagg, where he averaged 25.4 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 4.9 assists, shooting 57.9% from the field and 42.9% from 3-point range.
— John R. Wooden Award (@WoodenAward) April 5, 2025
Despite suffering an ankle injury during the ACC tournament quarterfinals, which caused him to miss the semifinal and championship games, Flagg has bounced back with vigor in the NCAA tournament. His performance against Arizona in the Sweet 16 was nothing short of phenomenal, as he scored 30 points, grabbed 6 rebounds, and dished out 7 assists, leading Duke to victory over the Wildcats.
Flagg joins an elite group of freshmen who have won the Wooden Award, including Duke’s Zion Williamson in 2019, Kentucky’s Anthony Davis in 2012, and Texas’ Kevin Durant in 2007. The men’s John R. Wooden Award has been a staple in college basketball since 1977, with UCLA star Marques Johnson being the first recipient. Notably, Purdue’s Zach Edey won the award in the past two years, becoming only the second men’s player to win it twice, alongside Ralph Sampson, who achieved this feat in 1982 and 1983.
- Cooper Flagg: 18.9 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists
- ACC Player of the Year and Rookie of the Year
- First freshman to win since Zion Williamson in 2019
- Set ACC freshman record with 42 points in a game
Flagg’s journey is a testament to his talent and determination, and his future in the NBA looks incredibly promising. As the basketball world watches, one thing is certain: Cooper Flagg is a name we will be hearing for years to come.
Originally Written by: Jeff Borzello
