Cooper Flagg’s incredible stats demonstrate that he is the greatest player in Duke history.

Cooper Flagg’s Historic Freshman Season at Duke

Cooper Flagg arrived at Duke with enormous expectations. As the nation’s top-ranked recruit, many predicted he would become the best player in college basketball. So far, he has not only met those expectations but exceeded them. Flagg is on track to be remembered as the greatest freshman in Duke history.

College basketball has always been full of individual stars, with all 364 teams featuring at least one player who demands attention from opposing defenses. While that remains a constant, certain programs—like Kentucky, Duke, Michigan State, Purdue, North Carolina, and UConn—are known for consistently producing superstar talent. However, over the last 15 years, only one team has consistently had multiple players regarded as the best in the country or the top freshman in the sport: Duke. The names speak for themselves—Jayson Tatum, Zion Williamson, and now, Cooper Flagg. And based on what we’ve seen, Flagg may be the best freshman Duke has ever had. A deeper look at the numbers will only reinforce that argument.

Flagg entered Duke with hype comparable to Zion Williamson, though for different reasons. Williamson captivated audiences with his jaw-dropping athleticism and highlight-reel dunks, proving to be as dominant as advertised. Flagg, on the other hand, was widely regarded as the most talented prospect in the country, a player who would have been the No. 1 overall pick straight out of high school if allowed. While skepticism surrounded the hype—given the many high school stars who have failed to live up to their potential—Flagg has silenced any doubts.

If you haven’t been watching, Flagg has been nothing short of sensational. His impact is so significant that he has emerged as a legitimate contender for National Player of the Year. Just a month ago, Auburn’s Johni Broome seemed like the runaway favorite for the award. Now, with Flagg closing in, the race is far from decided.

In Duke’s recent victory over Virginia, Flagg reached a statistical milestone that hadn’t been achieved in the ACC in 25 years—500 points, 100 assists, and 30 blocks in just 26 career games. Additionally, he joined elite company as one of only three players—alongside Dwyane Wade and Ben Simmons—to record 450 points, 150 rebounds, 100 assists, 40 steals, and 25 blocks in their first 25 games. Flagg is rewriting the record books, accomplishing feats that few have done in a Duke uniform.

Flagg’s season has been historic, but how does he compare to Tatum and Zion? While each played in a different era with unique roles, Flagg’s numbers are making a strong case.

Jayson Tatum had an impressive one-and-done season at Duke, leading the team in scoring before heading to the NBA, where he has since become a dominant force. In his lone college season, Tatum totaled 488 points, 63 assists, and 33 blocks. For many, he was the best Duke player they had ever watched—until Zion arrived.

Williamson’s numbers were even more impressive. Over a full season, he racked up 746 points, 59 blocks, and 68 assists. His dominance was undeniable. However, Flagg is on pace to surpass those figures. Currently, Flagg has 511 points, 201 rebounds, and 31 blocks. If he maintains his current pace of 20 points per game and Duke advances to the ACC Championship and the Elite Eight, he could surpass Zion’s scoring total.

COOPER. FLAGG. 🗣️

The first ACC player with 500 points, 100 assists and 30 blocks in the regular season in the last 25 years 😈 @DukeMBB pic.twitter.com/3LbSke5iwo

— ACC Network (@accnetwork) February 18, 2025

But Flagg’s impact goes beyond scoring. He influences every aspect of the game, setting himself apart from his predecessors. Williamson played 33 games, Tatum played 29, and Flagg has reached his milestones in just 26. More importantly, Duke is having its best season in a decade under Flagg’s leadership, emerging as a legitimate National Championship contender.

Regardless of whether Flagg, Tatum, or Zion was the “better” player, Duke fans can agree that Flagg is having a historic season. If past comparisons are any indication, Flagg is well on his way to being a consensus All-American, ACC Player of the Year, and Defensive Player of the Year. He is also in prime position to challenge Johni Broome for the Naismith Player of the Year honor—an award Zion previously won.

There is no doubt that Flagg will be an All-American, ACC Player of the Year, and the nation’s top freshman. Whether he can surpass Broome for National Player of the Year remains to be seen. But one thing is certain—Cooper Flagg is the best one-and-done player to ever wear Duke’s blue and white.