Jaylen Blakes recalled Austin Rivers’ historic buzzer-beater for Duke against North Carolina in 2012 as he strolled around the Dean Dome on Friday night while watching the Stanford staff scrimmage versus team managers.

In his three years at Duke, Blakes had never been more than a supporting actor, but the Blue Devil-turned-Cardinal allowed himself to imagine what it would be like to quiet Chapel Hill’s crowd.

Duke Blue Devils and Cooper Flagg are ranked first overall in the ESPN Basketball Power Index

The Duke Blue Devils and Cooper Flagg Claim the Top Spot in ESPN Basketball Power Index

The Duke Blue Devils are synonymous with basketball excellence. For decades, they have remained a dominant force in NCAA basketball, consistently producing NBA stars and drawing national attention. Now, the program has achieved a new milestone—led by freshman sensation Cooper Flagg, Duke has claimed the top position in the ESPN Basketball Power Index (BPI). This accomplishment highlights their on-court dominance and their ability to innovate and sustain success in a competitive landscape.

A Legacy of Greatness

Under legendary coach Mike Krzyzewski, Duke’s basketball program became a symbol of success, winning five NCAA championships, numerous ACC titles, and making countless Final Four appearances. Now, under head coach Jon Scheyer, a former Duke standout and assistant coach, the program continues to thrive.

Scheyer’s leadership blends fresh energy with Duke’s core values: discipline, teamwork, and relentless drive. His knack for recruiting and developing elite talent has kept Duke at the forefront of college basketball. This year, the arrival of Cooper Flagg, the top-ranked recruit in the 2024 class, has propelled the Blue Devils to new heights.

Cooper Flagg: The Emerging Star

At just 18, Cooper Flagg has taken the college basketball scene by storm. A Newport, Maine native, Flagg gained national attention during high school, leading Montverde Academy to a national championship and earning Gatorade National Player of the Year honors.

Flagg’s versatility sets him apart. At 6-foot-8 with a seven-foot wingspan, he excels at multiple positions. His offensive skills include a smooth jump shot, exceptional passing, and the ability to finish at the rim. On defense, he’s a force—blocking shots, intercepting passes, and guarding all five positions.

Since joining Duke, Flagg has averaged a double-double with 20.5 points, 11.2 rebounds, and 3.5 blocks per game. His maturity, leadership, and basketball IQ have made him a cornerstone of the team’s success.

The ESPN Basketball Power Index

The ESPN Basketball Power Index (BPI) is a predictive metric evaluating team performance and projecting future outcomes. It factors in strength of schedule, offensive and defensive efficiency, and individual contributions. Duke’s top ranking in the BPI reflects their all-around excellence.

This season, Duke’s offense ranks among the best nationally, thanks to Flagg and a talented supporting cast, including veteran guard Jeremy Roach and sharpshooter Tyrese Proctor. Defensively, they’re equally strong, holding opponents to under 60 points per game.

A challenging schedule has also contributed to Duke’s BPI success. The Blue Devils have defeated top-tier teams like Kansas and Gonzaga, cementing their status as the team to beat.

A Well-Balanced Roster

While Flagg is a standout, Duke’s success isn’t reliant on one player. Depth and balance are key to their dominance. Jeremy Roach provides veteran leadership and clutch shooting, while Tyrese Proctor has emerged as a reliable scorer and defender. Mark Mitchell and Kyle Filipowski add size and scoring in the frontcourt.

Freshmen Caleb Foster and Sean Stewart have also made notable contributions, showcasing Duke’s recruiting depth. This mix of experienced players and talented newcomers makes the Blue Devils adaptable to any challenge.

The Scheyer Effect

Jon Scheyer’s transition to head coach faced skepticism due to the immense legacy he inherited. However, his strategic acumen and ability to connect with players have silenced critics. Emphasizing player development and adaptability, Scheyer has been instrumental in Duke’s success this season.

Scheyer’s offensive system prioritizes ball movement, spacing, and versatility, allowing players like Flagg to shine. His defensive schemes maximize the team’s athleticism and length, creating a formidable presence. His in-game adjustments have been pivotal in securing wins against top opponents.

Championship Aspirations

With their top BPI ranking, Duke is firmly positioned as a national championship contender. However, the path to a title is never easy. The NCAA tournament is unpredictable, and even dominant teams can stumble under pressure.

To succeed, Duke must maintain focus and consistency. Leadership from players like Flagg and Roach will be crucial during the postseason. Their ability to deliver in clutch moments, as demonstrated throughout the season, will be tested on the grandest stage.

Cooper Flagg’s Broader Impact

Beyond his on-court performance, Flagg’s presence has significantly impacted Duke and college basketball. His star power has drawn heightened media attention and record-breaking attendance at Cameron Indoor Stadium.

Flagg’s decision to join Duke has reinforced the program’s reputation as a destination for elite talent. His influence will likely attract future recruits eager to follow his path and contribute to Duke’s storied legacy.