Cooper Flagg: The Freshman Phenomenon
In the world of college basketball, few freshmen have generated as much buzz as Cooper Flagg. The anticipation surrounding his entry into the collegiate scene was palpable, and he has not disappointed. As the projected top pick in the 2025 NBA draft, Flagg has already garnered praise from NBA superstars who will soon be his peers. To be considered one of the greatest freshmen in recent college basketball history, Flagg had to perform at an extraordinary level, and he did just that by sweeping national player of the year awards.
Flagg’s campaign is now being compared to the top 25 seasons by freshmen over the past 25 years. It’s a list filled with standout performances, and while not every great freshman season could be included, Flagg’s certainly stands out.
25. Malik Monk, G (Kentucky, 2016-17)
The 2016-17 season for Kentucky was marked by a trio of talented freshmen: De’Aaron Fox, Bam Adebayo, and Malik Monk. While Monk hasn’t reached the NBA all-star status of his teammates, he had the best collegiate season among them. Kentucky’s journey ended in the Elite Eight with a loss to North Carolina, but Monk’s performance was stellar, earning him the SEC player of the year title with an average of 19.8 PPG.
24. Lonzo Ball, G (UCLA, 2016-17)
The 2016-17 season was also notable for the emergence of Lonzo Ball at UCLA. Amidst the media frenzy surrounding his father, LaVar Ball, Lonzo made his mark by leading the nation in assists with 7.6 APG, averaging 14.6 PPG, and shooting 41% from the 3-point line. The Bruins reached the Sweet 16, and Lonzo’s performance was a key factor in their success.
23. RJ Barrett, G (Duke, 2018-19)
During the 2018-19 season, RJ Barrett was a stabilizing force for Duke, despite his teammate Zion Williamson winning the Wooden Award. Barrett was the only player to start all 38 games for the Blue Devils, who reached the Elite Eight. His efforts earned him a first team AP All-American spot with an average of 22.6 PPG.
22. DeMarcus Cousins, C (Kentucky, 2009-10)
DeMarcus Cousins was a dominant force for Kentucky in the 2009-10 season, averaging 15.1 PPG, 9.8 RPG, and 1.8 BPG. His performance helped Kentucky achieve a 35-3 record and an Elite Eight appearance. Cousins earned a first team AP All-America spot and remains one of the most dominant post players on this list.
21. Ben Simmons, F (LSU, 2015-16)
Ben Simmons’ time at LSU was marked by impressive statistics, averaging 19.2 PPG, 11.8 RPG, and 4.8 APG. Despite the Tigers falling short of expectations, Simmons’ production earned him a second team AP All-American spot. His impact on the game was undeniable, even if his collegiate career was brief.
20. Marvin Bagley III, F (Duke, 2017-18)
Marvin Bagley III quickly earned Coach K’s trust at Duke, averaging 21.0 PPG and 11.1 RPG during his freshman season. His performance helped Duke reach the Elite Eight, and he was a key player in their success. Bagley’s maturity and skill set made him a standout player in college basketball.
19. Karl-Anthony Towns, C (Kentucky, 2014-15)
The 2014-15 Kentucky team, featuring Karl-Anthony Towns, was one of the greatest to not win a national title. Towns averaged 10.2 PPG, 6.7 RPG, and 2.3 BPG, playing just 21 minutes per game on a team with nine future NBA players. His performance earned him a second team AP All-American spot and the No. 1 pick in the 2015 NBA draft.
18. Deandre Ayton, F (Arizona, 2017-18)
Deandre Ayton’s freshman season at Arizona was marked by impressive statistics, averaging 20.1 PPG and 11.6 RPG. He won Pac-12 player of the year and a first team AP All-America spot, solidifying his place as one of the top players in his class.
17. Andrew Wiggins, F (Kansas, 2013-14)
Andrew Wiggins’ freshman season at Kansas was highlighted by his 17.1 PPG and 5.9 RPG averages. Despite the team’s early exit in the NCAA tournament, Wiggins’ performance was memorable, including a 41-point game against West Virginia. He was the No. 1 pick in the 2014 NBA draft.
16. Jabari Parker, F (Duke, 2013-14)
Jabari Parker’s decision to join Duke paid off as he averaged 19.7 PPG and led the team to a first-place finish in adjusted offensive efficiency. His performance earned him a spot on the AP All-America first team.
15. Chet Holmgren, C (Gonzaga, 2021-22)
Chet Holmgren’s versatility and skill set made him a standout player at Gonzaga. Averaging 14.1 PPG, 9.9 RPG, and 3.7 BPG, Holmgren earned a second team AP All-America nod and helped his team reach the Sweet 16.
14. Tyler Hansbrough, F (North Carolina, 2005-06)
Tyler Hansbrough’s freshman season at North Carolina was marked by his 18.9 PPG and 7.8 RPG averages. He was an Associated Press All-America third-team selection, beginning a streak of four consecutive appearances on an AP All-America team.
13. Kevin Love, F (UCLA, 2007-08)
Kevin Love emerged as a leader for UCLA, averaging 17.5 points and 10.6 rebounds. His performance helped the Bruins reach their third consecutive Final Four, and he earned a first team AP All-American spot.
12. John Wall, G (Kentucky, 2009-10)
John Wall’s explosiveness and aggression made him a standout player at Kentucky. Averaging 16.6 PPG and 6.5 APG, Wall led his team to the Elite Eight and earned a spot as a Wooden Award finalist.
11. Jared Sullinger, C (Ohio State, 2010-11)
Jared Sullinger was a catalyst for Ohio State’s 24-0 start, averaging 17.2 PPG and 10.2 RPG. His performance earned him a spot on the AP All-America first team, an honor he would repeat the following year.
10. Jahlil Okafor, C (Duke, 2014-15)
Jahlil Okafor’s freshman season at Duke was marked by his 17.3 PPG and 8.5 RPG averages. He helped lead Duke to a national title and earned a first team AP All-America spot.
9. Derrick Rose, G (Memphis, 2007-08)
Derrick Rose’s performance at Memphis was nearly capped with a national title, but a last-second shot by Kansas changed history. Rose averaged 20.8 PPG and 6.0 APG during the NCAA tournament, showcasing his talent on a national stage.
8. Michael Beasley, F (Kansas State, 2007-08)
Michael Beasley’s freshman season at Kansas State was marked by his 26.2 PPG and 12.4 RPG averages. His performance was one of the greatest in college basketball history, despite the team’s early exit in the NCAA tournament.
7. Trae Young, G (Oklahoma, 2017-18)
Trae Young made history by leading the nation in both assists and points during his freshman season at Oklahoma. Despite the team’s early exit in the NCAA tournament, Young’s performance was unforgettable.
6. Greg Oden, C (Ohio State, 2006-07)
Greg Oden’s freshman season at Ohio State was marked by his 15.7 PPG and 9.6 RPG averages. Despite battling a wrist injury, Oden led his team to the national championship game and earned a first team AP All-America spot.
5. Zion Williamson, F (Duke, 2018-19)
Zion Williamson’s impact at Duke was felt both on and off the court. Averaging 22.6 PPG and 8.9 RPG, Williamson led the Blue Devils to the Elite Eight and won the Wooden Award.
4. Cooper Flagg, F (Duke, 2024-25)
Cooper Flagg’s freshman season at Duke was one of the greatest in NCAA history. Averaging 18.9 PPG and 7.5 RPG, Flagg won the Wooden Award and solidified his place among the all-time greats.
3. Carmelo Anthony, F (Syracuse, 2002-03)
Carmelo Anthony’s freshman season at Syracuse was capped with a national championship. Averaging 20.1 PPG and 9.8 RPG, Anthony’s performance earned him the Most Outstanding Player award.
2. Kevin Durant, F (Texas, 2006-07)
Kevin Durant’s freshman season at Texas was marked by his 25.8 PPG and 11.1 RPG averages. Despite an early exit in the NCAA tournament, Durant’s performance was one of the greatest in college basketball history.
1. Anthony Davis, F (Kentucky, 2011-12)
Anthony Davis’ freshman season at Kentucky was capped with a national championship and a collection of accolades. Averaging 14.2 PPG and 10.4 RPG, Davis’ performance was unmatched in recent college basketball history.
Originally Written by: Myron Medcalf
