No. 2 Duke dominated rival North Carolina on Saturday with an 87-70 win led by one other monster efficiency from Blue Devils freshman sensation Cooper Flagg. Flagg completed with 21 factors and had game-highs with eight rebounds, seven assists and three steals to go along with two blocks in 38 minutes of play.
The win prolonged Duke’s successful streak to fifteen video games and prolonged Flagg’s streak of consecutive 20+ level outings to 4 because the Blue Devils remained unbeaten (11-0) in ACC play, marking their greatest begin to convention play since 2005-06.
Duke misplaced each its matchups vs. North Carolina final season however the final result of this one was by no means doubtful. Flagg had 13 factors and 5 assists at halftime and the Blue Devils constructed a lead as giant as 32 factors earlier than hitting the cruise management button down the stretch.
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The highlights from this one are limitless for Flagg — the passing, the shot-blocking, the taking pictures was all on show — however one shot specifically highlighted simply how easy he made all of it look.
That was this informal turnaround jumper to beat the buzzer simply earlier than the break.
The shot gave him 13 first-half factors and gave Duke a 47-22 lead going into the break. It by no means trailed at any level within the recreation.
Key quantity
37: That is the entire variety of factors — accounting for factors scored or assisted on — Flagg was accountable on this recreation. He had one in all his greatest video games distributing the ball to teammates and working to search out open guys in transition and was grasping when essential to get his factors as nicely.
Giving out a grade
There’s not rather a lot to nitpick right here with Flagg after main Duke to a cushty win and doing so with effectivity. He completed 6 of 14 taking pictures from the sector, 3 of 5 from 3-point vary and was plus-19 ub a team-high 38 minutes of motion. Grade: A+
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Duke will get its sixth highway check in ACC play with a visit to face Syracuse on Wednesday in New York. The Blue Devils haven’t misplaced a real highway recreation this season however their two losses — vs. Kentucky and vs. Kansas — each got here on impartial courts away from Durham.
Flagg turned in one other monster efficiency Monday evening because the No. 2 Blue Devils edged NC State 74-64 after dealing with their first halftime deficit in a house recreation this season. Flagg was quiet within the first half as Duke fell behind by as a lot as 13, however he scored 22 of his 28 within the second because the Blue Devils rallied for his or her 14th consecutive victory.
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As Duke flipped the script with a 19-0 run that spanned each halves, Flagg helped ignite Cameron Indoor Stadium with a thunderous transition dunk. It seemingly will not go down as probably the greatest slams from Flagg’s highlight-filled freshman season (hold scrolling under to see extra). Nevertheless it was enormous given how tight the sport was, and it featured loads of energy.
Key quantity
23.5: Flagg is now averaging 23.5 factors in 10 ACC video games as he continues to raise his efficiency towards league competitors. For reference, ex-Duke star Zion Williamson averaged 22.6 factors towards convention opponents throughout his extremely celebrated one-and-done freshman season in 2018-19.
Giving out a grade
Flagg will get an ‘A’ due to his wonderful execution in late-game moments. His artful footwork on the left block led to a crucial layup on the 2:17 mark. Moments later, his help to Ngongba helped hold NC State at bay. Late-game execution was a difficulty early in Flagg’s freshman season, however Monday evening’s efficiency was proof of development. Grade: A
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Duke will play in-state rival North Carolina on Saturday in one of many largest video games on this weekend’s faculty basketball slate. Flagg will get his likelihood to etch his title into probably the greatest rivalries in sports activities at Cameron Indoor Stadium.
Flagg leads Duke in comeback win over Wake Forest
No. 2 Duke survived an upset scare towards Wake Forest on Saturday behind a giant efficiency by star freshman Cooper Flagg to stroll away with a 62-56 comeback victory. The Blue Devils trailed by as many as six factors within the second half after permitting a 17-1 run after halftime, however pulled away down the stretch to safe their thirteenth consecutive win.
Flagg scored 24 factors and added seven rebounds and 6 assists within the comeback win. Flagg hit a 3-pointer to finish Duke’s scoring drought after Wake Forest went on its run and scored 15 of his 24 factors after halftime.
The Blue Devils are off to a 9-0 begin in ACC play, with video games towards NC State and North Carolina on the horizon subsequent week. Duke is off to its greatest begin in convention play because the 2007-08 season when this system began with 10 consecutive wins towards ACC competitors.
Coming into the weekend, Wake Forest was off to an ideal 10-0 begin at house and had received the final two matchups in Winston-Salem towards Duke.
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Duke jumped out to a 35-22 halftime benefit over Wake Forest earlier than the Deon Deacons went on a run. Through the first half of play, Flagg scored a layup, which resulted in a 3-point play likelihood on the free-throw line.
Key quantity
10: Flagg recorded his tenth recreation with no less than 20 factors within the win over Wake Forest. Flagg completed with 24 factors after scoring a career-high 42 factors final weekend towards Notre Dame earlier this month.
Giving out a grade
Flagg completed with seven turnovers in Duke’s win over Wake Forest but additionally hit some well timed buckets when Duke went on its scoring drought. Flagg recorded one other recreation with no less than 5 assists and was an environment friendly 8 of 16 from the ground. It wasn’t excellent by any means, however the Duke star did sufficient to assist his workforce keep away from an upset loss. Grade: B+
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Duke will play its in-state rivals NC State and North Carolina subsequent week. The Blue Devils will face NC State at house on Monday and host North Carolina on Saturday. Duke noticed its 2023-24 season finish with a loss to NC State in final spring’s Elite Eight.
Flagg earns technical foul in win vs. Boston School
No. 3 Duke obtained off to a gradual begin Saturday towards Boston School however used a monster second-half efficiency paced by star freshman Cooper Flagg to exit with a 88-63 win. Flagg completed with 28 factors, 5 rebounds and 4 assists in Duke’s twelfth consecutive win.
Flagg was assessed a technical foul with 6:24 remaining within the second half shortly after blocking a shot. Flagg knocked down a 3-pointer moments later, extending his workforce’s result in 25 factors.
The Blue Devils are the lone workforce from the ACC that has but to lose a convention recreation this season. Duke is off to its greatest begin in convention play because the 2007-08 season when this system began with 10 consecutive wins towards ACC competitors.
Duke trailed by as many as seven factors within the first half earlier than taking the lead again for good with 6:19 remaining earlier than intermission. The Blue Devils outscored the Eagles 48-29 within the second half.
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Boston School followers made the error of chanting “overrated” when Flagg obtained the basketball. The Duke star freshman made them pay with a strong dunk moments later.
Key quantity
9: Flagg recorded his ninth recreation with no less than 20 factors within the win over Boston School. Flagg completed with 28 factors. Flagg scored a career-high 42 factors final weekend towards Notre Dame.
Giving out a grade
Video games like this are beginning to grow to be the brand new regular for Flagg. The Duke star shot an environment friendly 9 of 14 from the ground and knocked down 9 of 11 makes an attempt from the free-throw line. Flagg additionally added 5 rebounds, 4 assists, two blocks and two steals. Flagg might not have scored 42 factors like final weekend, however this efficiency was one in all his greatest towards ACC competitors. Grade: A
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Duke faces Wake Forest on the highway subsequent Saturday. The Demon Deacons sit at 14-4 total and 6-1 in ACC play. Wake Forest has received its final 5 video games since dropping to Clemson on the highway.
Flagg helps Blue Devils transfer to 7-0 in ACC with blowout win vs. Miami
No. 4 Duke cruised to an 89-54 win over Miami on Tuesday at Cameron Indoor Stadium to enhance to 7-0 in ACC play. Duke star freshman Cooper Flagg completed with 13 factors, seven rebounds and 6 assists within the wire-to-wire win.
The Blue Devils jumped out to a 50-26 halftime benefit over the Hurricanes behind 26 first-half mixed factors from Flagg and fellow freshman Kon Knueppel. The Blue Devils are off to their greatest begin in convention play because the 2007-08 season.
Flagg was coming off one of the best recreation of his profession in Duke’s win over Notre Dame final weekend. Flagg set a single-game ACC freshman scoring report by scoring 42 factors towards the Combating Irish, marking the primary time a Duke participant had scored no less than 40 factors in a recreation since JJ Redick did it in 2006.
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Flagg attracts a lot consideration contained in the paint that his teammates are wide-open on the perimeter. On this play, Flagg drives baseline and hits Mason Gillis for a 3-pointer. Flagg’s passing is an underrated ability set in his total recreation.
Key quantity
5: For the seventh time this season, Flagg recorded no less than 5 assists. He was coming off a career-high seven dimes in final weekend’s win over Notre Dame. Flagg has dished out no less than 5 assists in 4 of Duke’s final 5 video games.
Giving out a grade
Flagg’s encore after having one of the best scoring recreation by a real freshman in ACC historical past wasn’t excellent by any means, however he made successful performs to assist Duke safe a blowout win. Flagg confirmed flashes of why his passing can/will translate to the subsequent degree and dished out six assists. The rationale why Flagg’s grade is not larger is he recorded a season-high six turnovers in 28 minutes. Grade: B
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After taking part in its final three video games at Cameron Indoor Stadium, Duke will face Boston School on the highway Saturday. The Eagles have misplaced their final three video games and are at present 1-5 in ACC play.
Flagg breaks ACC freshman scoring report with 42 factors vs. Notre Dame
Flagg set a single-game ACC freshman scoring report Saturday with 42 factors in an 86-78 win over the visiting Notre Dame Combating Irish to stay unbeaten in ACC play. Flagg’s profession day got here on simply 14 area purpose makes an attempt as he drained 4 of his six 3-point makes an attempt and completed 16 of 17 from the free-throw line.
Flagg’s 42-burger was as mandatory because it was magnificent, as No. 4 Duke constructed its result in as many as 18 late within the second. However main 79-61, Notre Dame staged a livid comeback to get inside 4 factors earlier than Flagg helped put issues away on the charity stripe late.
The win for Duke provides it a 6-0 begin in ACC play for the primary time because the 2007-08 season, when it started convention play with 10 consecutive wins.
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Your entire Duke recreation was a spotlight reel for Flagg. However, per ordinary, it was his high-flying bunnies that stood out. Within the second half he crashed from the highest of the important thing and delivered a poster dunk, launching himself from nicely exterior the restricted space to complete with authority.
Key quantity
4: Flagg’s 42 factors had been made potential by a career-best 4 made 3-pointers within the win for Duke. He completed 4 of 6 from behind the arc.
Giving out a grade
Duke dominated for a lot of the sport save for a late Irish spurt that made issues nearer than they need to have been, and that was largely as a result of Flagg on each ends had his method with Notre Dame. There isn’t a different grade at hand out after his greatest outing of the season. Grade: A+
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Duke’s third recreation of a three-game house stand is scheduled for Tuesday with Miami coming to Durham. The Hurricanes face Wake Forest at house Saturday having misplaced 11 of their final 12 video games.
Flagg posterizes Pitt 7-footer for signature dunk of season
No. 4 Duke defeated Pitt 76-47 on Tuesday at Cameron Indoor Stadium to enhance to 5-0 in ACC play. Duke star freshman Cooper Flagg completed with 19 factors, 10 rebounds and 4 assists to notch the sixth double-double of his profession. The Blue Devils have received their final 9 video games, relationship again to a loss to Kansas in Las Vegas.
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We’ve an early candidate for the dunk of the yr. Flagg threw down a monster one-handed poster dunk within the opening minutes of the second half. Flagg adopted it up with a two-handed flush moments later.
Key quantity
6: Flagg completed his sixth profession double-double (19 factors, 10 rebounds) within the win over Pitt. Flagg hauled in seven of his 10 rebounds within the second half. Flagg recorded a double-double in his final outing towards SMU.
Giving out a grade
Flagg began slowly towards Pitt because of foul hassle however had a stable second-half efficiency that helped Duke draw back. Flagg had a pair of sturdy dunks and was lively on the boards after intermission to complete with the sixth double-double of his profession. General, this was a robust efficiency from the projected No. 1 total decide within the 2025 NBA Draft. Grade: A-
Up subsequent
Duke hosts Notre Dame on Saturday in its solely scheduled assembly with the Combating Irish. Notre Dame is off to a 7-7 begin beneath second-year coach Micah Shrewsberry.
Flagg leads Blue Devils over SMU
Flagg dominated the beginning of each halves on Saturday as No. 4 Duke defeated SMU 89-62 whereas taking part in on the highway with coach Jon Scheyer at house because of sickness. Flagg scored 11 factors within the first 10 minutes after which chipped in 9 extra over the primary 4:05 of the second half because the Blue Devils prolonged a 7-point halftime result in 17.
The freshman phenom completed with 24 factors for the third time in Duke’s final 4 video games as he continued a scorching begin to ACC play. With 11 rebounds, Flagg additionally completed together with his fourth double-double of the season. The versatile ahead rounded out his stat line with three assists, two blocks and a steal in 32 minutes.
Maybe most encouraging for Flagg was his 2-for-2 displaying from 3-point vary. The projected No. 1 decide within the 2025 NBA Draft entered taking pictures simply 27.1% from 3-point vary for the season however is now 7 of 14 from deep in his final 4 video games. As a workforce, Duke hit 11-of-27 makes an attempt from past the arc (40.7%) whereas holding SMU to 23.8% 3-point taking pictures within the win.
Tyrese Proctor and Kon Knueppel every added 14 factors to help the Blue Devils, who improved to 12-2 (4-0 ACC).
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It wasn’t the prettiest sequence, however this frenzied possession led to a Flagg 3-pointer that prolonged Duke’s result in 54-37 early within the second half. It capped a 13-3 run and gave Flagg seven factors within the first 4:05 of the second half.
Key quantity
93.1%: After going 8 of 8 from the charity stripe towards SMU, Flagg is taking pictures 93.1% from the free-throw line over Duke’s final six video games. That is a marked enchancment from the 69.6% mark that he posted in his first eight video games.
Giving out a grade
There was little to criticize about Flagg’s efficiency on the highway towards a high quality opponent in a hostile setting. He made procuring a double-double look comparatively easy as he was efficient at a number of ranges as a scorer. Most encouraging was that Flagg continued to display enchancment as a free-throw shooter (8 for 8) and perimeter risk (2 for two from 3-point vary). If Flagg can inch his 3-point taking pictures proportion up towards 35% throughout ACC play, it’ll make all of the extra deadly. Grade: A
Up subsequent
Duke hosts Pitt on Tuesday in its solely scheduled assembly with the Panthers, who’re coached by ex-Duke participant and assistant Jeff Capel. Scheyer is predicted to return for the sport after lacking Saturday’s contest because of sickness.
Flagg units tone on 18th birthday in highway win vs. Georgia Tech
No. 5 Duke improved to 2-0 in ACC play on Saturday with an 82-56 highway win over Georgia Tech. The Blue Devils led for almost all of the sport and blew the Yellow Jackets out late with a giant second half as freshmen Cooper Flagg, Kon Knueppel and Khaman Maluach — who mixed for 46 factors within the victor — almost outscored Georgia Tech’s complete workforce.
Flagg, who turned 18 years outdated on Saturday, set the tone for Duke early on this one with 9 of his 13 factors coming within the first body and was in a position to watch from the bench down the stretch as Duke emptied its bench in rubbish time. He completed with no steals or blocks however nonetheless managed to provide a number of highlights together with his leaping capability.
The win provides Duke its second win of the week and sure ensures it’ll stay within the prime 5 of the AP ballot subsequent week after beating George Mason by 21 factors earlier within the week. Duke now has 10 days of relaxation earlier than ACC play resumes on Dec. 31 at house vs. Virginia Tech.
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Flagg made simply 5 area objectives in Saturday’s win however took benefit of his restricted alternatives once they arose. One such likelihood got here early within the recreation in a play he made look method simpler than it ought to’ve, as he gathered a transition cross, dribbled as soon as then attacked a defender for a simple jam.
Key quantity
3: That is the variety of turnovers Flagg had within the win. With simply two assists, it marked the fourth time this season he had extra turnovers than assists, with two of the opposite three events — vs. Kentucky and vs. Kansas — ending in a Duke loss.
Giving out a grade
The roster development and mixture of starpower and depth on this Duke workforce would not require that Flagg placed on his superman cape and fly excessive each recreation. Saturday’s win was an instance of that. He did sufficient on protection, as a scorer and together with his power to guide Duke and stepped out of the eway when mandatory as Kon Knueppel and Khaman Maluach obtained their probabilities. He would not get an A as a result of he did not dominate, however he would not get dinged considerably for enjoying successful ball, both. Grade: B
Up subsequent
Duke has a 10-day break in its schedule earlier than resuming ACC play on Dec. 31 vs. Virginia Tech again in Durham, North Carolina.
Flagg scores 24 in blowout win vs. George Mason
No. 5 Duke defeated George Mason 68-47 on Tuesday behind a powerful second-half efficiency from star freshman Cooper Flagg. Flagg scored 17 of his 24 factors after intermission and added 9 rebounds to assist the Blue Devils win their fifth consecutive recreation.
Duke obtained off to a gradual begin at house and led by a slim 20-16 margin late within the first half earlier than pulling away within the second half. Flagg got here one rebound shy of securing his fourth double-double of the season after recording a double-double in three of his final 4 video games.
Within the victory vs. the Patriots Flagg improved from his final efficiency when he scored a career-low six factors in Duke’s final outing towards Incarnate Phrase. Flagg logged a season-low 22 minutes and missed all three of his 3-point makes an attempt within the 72-46 win over UIW.
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Flagg was taking pictures solely 22.2% from past the arc coming into the week. He knocked down his 3-pointer in transition towards George Mason, which could possibly be an indication of issues to come back. Flagg had simply made one 3-pointer throughout Duke’s four-game successful streak earlier than the victory vs. the Patriots.
Key stat
5: Flagg, who has completed job this season of crashing the glass, had 5 offensive rebounds. Most of his offensive boards got here from his personal missed photographs. Nonetheless, it is spectacular to see the younger ahead decide to rebounding on each ends of the ground. 5 of his 9 complete rebounds had been on the offensive finish.
Giving out a grade
Flagg’s total effectivity wasn’t wonderful (7 of 20 from the ground). The positives had been he made two 3-pointers and knocked down all eight free throws makes an attempt. After Duke obtained off to a gradual begin within the first half, Flagg took over the sport and helped his workforce notch its fifth straight win. Grade: A-
Up subsequent
Duke will face Georgia Tech on the highway subsequent on Saturday. The Blue Devils opened ACC play with a win over Louisville earlier this month and can play Georgia Tech of their second convention recreation of the season. Georgia Tech has misplaced its final three video games and is 4-6 this season.
USATSI
Flagg performs simply 22 minutes in straightforward win over Incarnate Phrase
No. 4 Duke obtained off to a gradual begin towards Incarnate Phrase on Tuesday at Cameron Indoor Stadium however pulled away within the second half for a 72-46 win. The Blue Devils outscored UIW 44-25 within the second half for his or her fourth consecutive victory since falling to Kansas final month in Las Vegas.
Duke star freshman Cooper Flagg had a quiet evening and recorded six factors, eight rebounds and two assists. Flagg helped Duke erase a double-digit deficit on the highway in his workforce’s final assembly towards Louisville and recorded his fourth profession double-double within the course of.
The six factors Flagg scored within the win over UIW marked a brand new career-low. Flagg scored 9 factors in a win over Seattle U and eight towards Wofford final month. Flagg logged lower than half-hour in each of these video games.
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Flagg’s playmaking capability has been on full show this season. Even when his shot is not falling, he can create seems to be for others due to the eye he attracts.
Key stat
22 minutes: Flagg logged a season-low 22 minutes within the win over UIW. Flagg performed 38 minutes in Duke’s win over Auburn final week and logged solely 28 towards Louisville because of foul hassle. Flagg’s earlier season-low was towards Military within the second recreation of his profession. Flagg did not play a majority of the second half in that recreation because of cramps.
Giving out a grade
By Flagg’s requirements, it was a lackluster efficiency. Flagg performed a season-low 22 minutes and shot 2 of 8 from the ground. He missed all three of his makes an attempt from past the arc. Flagg did not need to do a lot due to the opponent, however bettering his 3-point taking pictures must be a degree of emphasis for the remainder of the season. Grade: C
Up subsequent
Duke will face George Mason at house on Tuesday. The Patriots are off to a 7-3 begin to the 2024-25 season and this can mark their second recreation towards a Energy 5 opponent this season. George Mason misplaced to Marquette 82-63 in its second recreation.
No. 9 Duke erased a 14-point deficit on the highway Sunday to flee Louisville with a 76-65 win in its first ACC check of the 2024-25 common season. The Blue Devils outscored shorthanded Louisville 43-28 within the second half and outscored their convention foe 34-14 within the paint whereas bettering to 7-2 on the season.
Duke star freshman Cooper Flagg had one more massive day on the workplace to guide Duke with 20 factors and 12 rebounds, marking his fourth profession double-double. Flagg fouled out for the primary time all season and performed simply 28 minutes. However he made his mark within the recreation with two steals, one block and one help as well.
Flagg’s massive recreation put an exclamation mark on what was a giant week each personally for him and for his workforce after the Blue Devils took down No. 2 Auburn on Wednesday behind his 22 factors, 11 rebounds and 4 assists.
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Flagg’s creating face-up recreation has proven some enchancment already this season, however as we noticed Sunday, maybe he would not want it! Even when he is not in a position to end in 1-on-1 settings, he all the time has the choice of merely cleansing up his personal messes on the rim — like this end vs. the Playing cards. A factor of magnificence.
Key stat:
12 rebounds: Flagg set a brand new career-high with 12 rebounds vs. Louisville and did his injury all whereas taking part in the third-fewest minutes in a recreation all season.
Giving out a grade
The bar for grading Flagg is excessive however even by his personal requirements, this was a extremely stable efficiency. He made an enormous distinction on the boards, was lively on protection and confirmed aggressiveness on offense. He completed 8-of-17 taking pictures. Grade: B
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Duke will face Incarnate Phrase on Tuesday because the Blue Devils return house to Cameron Indoor Stadium.
Duke, Flagg topple No. 2 Auburn
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Flagg knocked down a troublesome fadeaway jumper within the first half towards Auburn. This type of self-creation is the subsequent step in his improvement.
Key stat:
11 rebounds: Flagg matched his career-high by flattening 11 rebounds within the win over Auburn. It is the third time he has grabbed no less than 11 rebounds in a recreation after conducting the feat in back-to-back video games earlier this season towards Military and Kentucky. The standard of the opponent makes the stat that rather more spectacular.
Giving out a grade
Flagg was unbelievable towards Auburn. He was lively on each ends of the ground. Flagg recorded three steals and two blocks and made some well timed photographs down the stretch towards probably the greatest defenses within the nation. This was probably the greatest total performances of his younger profession. Grade: A
Up subsequent
Duke will face Louisville on the highway on Sunday. The Cardinals are off to a 5-3 begin in 12 months 1 of the Pat Kelsey period however have misplaced their final two video games to Oklahoma and Ole Miss. Louisville went on a five-game win streak final month, highlighted by an 89-61 win over Indiana.
Flagg dominates in win vs. Seattle
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Flagg threw down (one other) main dunk within the first half to assist set the tone and get the Cameron Crazies juiced up simply earlier than halftime. He makes transition buckets look easy together with his size and explosiveness, and that was the case right here as he casually completed with two arms above the rim.
Key stat
7 assists: Flagg had a season-high for assists regardless of driving the pine for a lot of the closing 10 minutes of the sport. That not solely bested his earlier career-high of six assists however was additionally the second-most for any Duke participant in a single recreation this season behind solely Kon Knueppel, who had eight vs. Kansas earlier within the week.
Giving out a grade
Pretty much as good as Flagg was making performs for his teammates, we won’t overlook his struggles elsewhere. He completed 2 of seven taking pictures on the day, didn’t make both of his two makes an attempt from 3-point vary and had three turnovers on the night as well. Grade: C+
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Duke hosts Auburn inside Cameron Indoor Stadium on Wednesday. Auburn is coming off a Maui Invitational title and appears prefer it not solely has the greatest workforce within the sport proper now, but additionally one of the best participant. —– Kyle Boone
Flagg struggles in loss to No. 1 Kansas, turns ball over late once more
Duke star freshman Cooper Flagg scored 11 of his 13 factors within the second half, but it surely wasn’t sufficient as No. 1 Kansas defeated No. 11 Duke 75-72 in an exciting nonconference recreation in Las Vegas. Flagg completed with 5 rebounds and three assists however turned the ball over 4 occasions in a slim loss to the Jayhawks.
Flagg has scored in double figures in 5 of his first six video games. He was coming off arguably one of the best efficiency of his younger profession, posting a team-high 24 factors in a 69-55 win over Arizona.
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Flagg threw down a monster poster dunk within the second half towards Kansas on Tuesday.
Key stat
1 for two: Flagg scored solely two factors within the first half, hitting one in all his two field-goal makes an attempt earlier than halftime. Flagg obtained going considerably offensively after intermission and scored 11 of his 13 factors after halftime.
Giving out a grade
Flagg delivered a highlight-worthy dunk and made some sturdy defensive performs, this was in all probability the worst outing of his younger faculty profession. His efficiency towards Arizona final week confirmed what he is able to doing. Together with his workforce trailing by one, Flagg turned the ball over with 48 seconds remaining, which gave Kansas the ball again. It was considerably just like what occurred on the finish of Duke’s recreation towards Kentucky. Grade: C.
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Duke will keep in Las Vegas the subsequent few days earlier than dealing with Seattle U. The Redhawks face Furman within the second recreation of the doubleheader on Tuesday in Sin Metropolis. Seattle U is off to a 2-3 begin to the season.
Flagg placing up massive numbers
On Friday evening in Tucson, Arizona, No. 12 Duke went into the hornet’s nest that’s the McKale Middle and received convincingly 69-55 over a gifted No. 17 Arizona workforce that has been almost automated on its house ground beneath coach Tommy Lloyd. The schematic clarification for a way they did so consists of forcing turnovers, making massive 3s and creating further alternatives, however the easy clarification boils down to 2 phrases.
Cooper Flagg.
Duke’s freshman phenom was sensation within the win with 24 factors, six rebounds, three assists, two blocks and a steal in one more stat-sheet stuffing displaying. The No. 1 recruit has been the No. 1 possibility for Duke and probably the greatest gamers in faculty basketball instantly, and it is proven within the field rating, the place he now leads Duke in each main statistical class, as International Scouting famous over the weekend — making him the one at present Div. I participant to be doing so proper now.
That is as spectacular as it’s jarring. A 17-year-old is dominating for a Duke workforce more likely to be in or very close to the highest 10 of the AP Prime 25 on Monday, and in a method that no different participant — not simply freshmen, however participant — is doing so on the Div. I degree.
Flagg’s handed each check this season with flying colours save for a late turnover vs. Kentucky within the Champions Traditional which may’ve price Duke the win. He’ll have his largest check of the season — and perhaps the yr — on Tuesday evening in a significant highlight showdown as Duke faces No. 1 Kansas in Las Vegas, pitting him up towards star massive man Hunter Dickinson and a gifted froncourt that features freshman Flory Bidunga and KJ Adams. It must be appointment viewing, as each Flagg recreation has been this season.
Key stats
31%: Flagg has the second-highest utilization price amongst qualifying freshmen this season in faculty basketball at 31%, trailing solely Texas freshman Tre Johnson, whose utilization price via six video games stands at 31.2%. Since 2000, solely eight different gamers within the energy construction convention have posted that prime of a utilization price whereas averaging no less than 17.5 factors and 9.0 rebounds per recreation in a season. That record is: DeAndre Ayton, Marvin Bagley III, Ben Simmons, Michael Beasley, Kevin Love, Kevin Durant, Kris Humphries and Carmelo Anthony.
Giving out an early grade
5 video games into the season is a small pattern measurement but it surely’s laborious to be too crucial of what Flagg has completed already as a 17-year-old true freshman taking part in for probably the most scrutinized workforce in faculty basketball. He is regarded each bit the a part of the No. 1 recruit and is monitoring towards turning into the overwhelming favourite to go No. 1 within the 2025 NBA Draft. Grade: A+
Flagg leads leads Blue Devils over Arizona in first true highway recreation
In his first true highway recreation as a collegiate participant Flagg led No. 12 Duke to a 69-55 victory Friday at No. 17 Arizona in one of many premier nonconference video games of the 2024-25 faculty basketball season. Flagg completed with 24 factors, six rebounds and three assists vs. the Wildcats.
The Blue Devils jumped out to a 34-27 halftime benefit and held off a late rally from Arizona to enhance to 4-1 on the season. The Blue Devils’ lone loss got here earlier this month to Kentucky within the Champions Traditional. Duke has since received two straight forward of its largest recreation of the season towards No. 1 Kansas subsequent week.
Flagg performed a career-high 38 minutes within the win over Arizona.
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With simply over 12 minutes remaining within the second half on Friday, Flagg drove via the center of the lane and threw down a strong one-handed flush.
Key stat
24 factors: Flagg has now scored double figures in 4 of his 5 profession video games. Flagg scored eight factors in 28 minutes throughout a blowout loss to Wofford final week and responded with a pleasant scoring effort days later. Flagg’s career-high (26 factors) got here towards Kentucky within the Champions Traditional earlier this month.
Giving out a grade
The McKale Middle in Tucson is likely one of the hardest and most intimidating environments for any (opposing) participant to play in. Flagg’s total effectivity (10 of twenty-two) wasn’t wonderful, however he did rating 24 factors — probably the most of any participant on the ground. Flagg held his personal towards probably the greatest groups within the nation. Grade: A
Up subsequent
Duke travels to Las Vegas on Tuesday to face No. 1 Kansas. The Jayhawks opened the season because the top-ranked workforce in each the AP and Coaches polls and can enter this matchup with an ideal 5-0 report. Longtime coach Invoice Self not too long ago turned the winningest coach in Kansas program historical past following a victory over Michigan State within the Champions Traditional.
No. 6 Duke defeated Wofford 86-35 on Saturday at Cameron Indoor Stadium simply days after struggling its first loss to Kentucky within the Champions Traditional. Duke star freshman Cooper Flagg had a quiet offensive efficiency, ending with a season-low eight factors, however stuffed the stat sheet with 9 rebounds, six assists, three steals and two blocks.
Flagg did not need to play a lot within the second half as a result of his workforce jumped out to a 51-14 halftime benefit. The star ahead performed all 20 minutes within the second half within the loss to the Wildcats and logged solely 13 minutes after intermission towards the Terriers.
Regardless of the loss to Kentucky, Flagg had one of the best scoring efficiency of his profession, posting a team-high 26 factors. Flagg had scored in double-digits in Duke’s first three video games of the season coming into the weekend.
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Flagg had a quiet day on offense towards Wofford, however did report an And-1 bucket within the first half. He celebrated appropriately.
Key stat:
13 second half minutes: Flagg performed all 20 minutes within the second half towards Kentucky earlier this week however checked out with 5:41 remaining towards Wofford. The star freshman obtained some nicely deserved relaxation forward of a marquee showdown towards Arizona subsequent week.
Giving out a grade
Flagg did not need to do a lot for his workforce to report a bounce-back win at house. The star ahead solely logged 28 minutes and completed with eight factors, 9 rebounds, six assists, three steals and two blocks. Flagg went 1 of 5 from the 3-point line – an space he might want to enhance on to take the subsequent step in his improvement. Grade: A-
Up subsequent
Duke travels to Tucson, Arizona, on Friday to face No. 9 Arizona. The Wildcats are coming off a 103-88 loss on the highway to Wisconsin for his or her first lack of the season. This recreation shall be a rematch of final yr’s showdown at Cameron Indoor Stadium, received by Arizona 78-73. Arizona is coached by Tommy Lloyd, who’s in his fourth season with this system after spending 20 years as an assistant coach at Gonzaga.
Flagg proper on monitor in first few video games
Via three video games, Cooper Flagg has had his ups (he is averaging a double-double) and downs (poor taking pictures, cramping). All in all, it has been a superb early debut for the freshman phenom. Taken in context of how different eventual greats started their careers, Flagg is true on monitor.
Cooper Flagg vs. Latest Duke No. 1 General Picks (Via first 3 Video games)
| Participant | PPG | RPG | APG | FG% |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 Zion Williamson | 25.3 | 10.7 | 2.7 | 82.1 |
| 2021 Paolo Banchero | 19.3 | 8.7 | 0.3 | 67.7 |
| 2024 Cooper Flagg | 19.0 | 10.0 | 3.3 | 45.5 |
Nonetheless, control how Flagg shoots the ball the subsequent few weeks — each the outcome and the method. This is how Adam Finkelstein, the Director of Scouting at 247Sports and a draft analyst for CBS Sports activities, assesses Flagg:
The cramping and the 2 late turnovers towards Kentucky could also be what individuals will discuss, however the 17-year-old had 26 factors and 12 rebounds on the Champions Traditional. For him to play that nicely, and but nonetheless have a lot untapped upside is what’s so thrilling. Most scouts assume the cramping will not be a long-term downside. The self-creation is a piece in progress, however that was largely anticipated.
It has been the taking pictures that has stood out as a variable that is going to doubtlessly be much more necessary than anticipated. He is 3-for-13 from three thus far (23%), however greater than that it is that his spot-up photographs specifically have not regarded notably good. He is getting nearly no carry into his launch, versus when he shoots off the dribble or on the transfer and he tends to rise-up extra into that launch.
Having repeatable mechanics is a giant a part of taking pictures consistency and so the sheer variance of his elevation into various kinds of photographs creates some uncertainty about the way in which it may development long-term.
No. 6 Duke performs towards Nov. 16 towards Wofford.
Flagg shines however turns ball over twice late in loss to Kentucky
With No. 6 Duke down by two towards No. 19 Kentucky popping out of a timeout with simply over two minutes remaining on Tuesday evening, the Blue Devils had been in determined want of a bucket after lacking six straight photographs from the ground. So, with the sport hanging within the steadiness, they turned to the youngest participant on the ground.
Freshman phenom Cooper Flagg took the basketball, bullied his method contained in the free-throw line and sank a contested jumper over Koby Brea as Brea dedicated a foul. Flagg made the free throw, which put Duke forward. It felt for a second like the sport’s pivotal play.
However neither the lead, nor Flagg’s brilliance lasted over the sport’s closing two minutes because the No. 19 Wildcats edged the No. 6 Blue Devils 77-72 in a Champions Traditional thriller. Flagg’s 26 level, 12-rebound effort featured many dazzling moments as he performed within the first showcase recreation of his faculty profession. Nevertheless it additionally featured some rising pains down the stretch.
Following the aforementioned and-one sequence, Flagg made one other bodily bucket to tie the sport at 72-72. However when the Blue Devils went again to Flagg twice within the closing 30 seconds on two separate possessions, he dedicated two turnovers that sank Duke’s probabilities.
Flagg’s ability and flexibility shined all through towards a veteran-laden Kentucky workforce. Nonetheless, the ending will go down as a hard-learned lesson for the projected No. 1 total decide within the 2025 NBA Draft.
You gotta see this
Flagg made his presence felt instantly, as he completed a lob on the sport’s first possession to open the scoring. It was a part of a robust begin as Flagg wanted simply over 11 minutes to achieve double figures.
Key stat
20 minutes: After taking part in simply 12 minutes within the first half after selecting up his second foul, Flagg performed the whole second half. That was a major improvement for Duke after Flagg handled cramping points within the Blue Devils’ first two video games.
Giving out a grade
Whereas on the one hand, it is laborious to knock a 17-year outdated freshman for such a statistically productive efficiency in his first recreation towards a high-major faculty opponent, there was a lot for Flagg to enhance upon. Particularly, his lack of ability to even rise up a shot earlier than committing consecutive turnovers within the closing 30 seconds was pricey. However the legion of NBA scouts in attendance seemingly noticed nothing that might immediate them to contemplate transferring Flagg from No. 1 on their massive boards. General, he was nice, however the efficiency was marred by the ending. Grade vs. Kentucky: B
Up subsequent
Duke hosts Wofford on Saturday. The Terriers are coached by Dwight Perry, a former Kentucky walk-on who’s initially from Durham, North Carolina. Wofford was picked to complete fourth within the Southern Convention preseason ballot and ranks No. 7 nationally in minutes continuity with a deep nicely of gamers again from a workforce that completed 17-15 final season.
Flagg posts early double-double vs. Military
Cooper Flagg wanted only one half to report the primary double-double of his faculty profession because the No. 7 Blue Devils beat Military 100-58. The freshman phenom had 13 factors, 10 rebounds, two blocks and a steal at halftime as Duke opened up a 43-20 lead.
Flagg was quiet within the second half, including a rebound to that tally in simply six minutes because the Blue Devils cruised to a 2-0 begin and he handled obvious cramps for a second straight recreation.
There was no want for Duke to drive the problem with Flagg within the second half because the Blue Devils owned a commanding lead behind a robust workforce effort. Fellow freshman Kon Knueppel was spectacular once more, ending with a team-high 15 factors on 4-of-6 taking pictures from 3-point vary As a workforce, the Blue Devils made 17 of 38 seems to be from deep as Tyrese Proctor additionally made 4 3-pointers. Six gamers reached double figures for Duke.
You gotta see this
Duke had missed six straight photographs from the ground and led simply 7-6 when the Blue Devils obtained a transition alternative by advantage of their strain protection lower than 4 minutes into the sport. Sion James got here up with a steal, and Tyrese Proctor led a quick break that Flagg completed with an emphatic alley-oop slam.
Key stat
2 of 4: Flagg’s 3-point taking pictures, which was a welcome sight after he went 0 for 4 from 3-point vary in Duke’s season-opening win over Maine. His two 3-pointers bookended an 18-0 Duke run within the first half.
Giving out a grade
Whereas Flagg’s cramping points within the second half of each video games thus far this season is a priority, he is nonetheless regarded the half of a school basketball star. For any participant to safe a double-double of their second collegiate recreation is a powerful accomplishment. That Flagg wanted solely a half to achieve that threshold of statistical productiveness is a testomony to his dominance. It wasn’t an ideal efficiency — a 1-for-3 efficiency from the free-throw line is price a slight knock — however Flagg regarded nice for probably the most half. Grade: A-
Up subsequent
Duke faces a substantial uptick in competitors on Tuesday because the Blue Devils will play No. 23 Kentucky in Atlanta as a part of the Champions Traditional. The Wildcats are a veteran-oriented workforce beneath first-year coach Mark Pope.
Flagg has stable debut vs. his home-state faculty
Duke phenom Cooper Flagg made his long-awaited collegiate debut on Nov. 4 because the Blue Devils outlasted Maine 96-62 to open the 2024-25 season. Flagg completed with 18 factors, seven rebounds and 5 assists in half-hour earlier than testing with 3:28 remaining whereas battling cramps.
The Maine native did not get his first basket from the ground till 6:25 remained within the first half. However his command for the sport was on show early as Flagg assisted on two of Duke’s first three buckets. With fellow freshman Kon Knueppel on fireplace with 13 factors within the first seven minutes, Flagg took on a complimentary function for a lot of the primary half.
However Flagg’s capability to impression the sport with out the ball in his arms is a part of the attract that makes him the projected No. 1 total decide within the 2025 NBA Draft. Right here is extra from his debut:
You gotta see this
With Duke main simply 35-27 and beneath 4 minutes remaining within the first half, Flagg provided a glimpse of the highlight-reel functionality that helped make him the No. 1 total prospect within the Class of 2024. Working on the suitable wing, Flagg beat a Maine defender off the dribble, hit the paint after which exploded for a vicious right-handed dunk. The play ignited the Cameron Crazies and provided a glimpse of the electrical potential that Flagg brings.
Key stat
Flagg made 6 of 6 free throws, which was an awesome signal contemplating how a lot time he is more likely to spend on the charity stripe this season.
Giving out a grade
Flagg regarded comfy and in command, even throughout a gradual offensive begin. The Blue Devils had been +27 with him on the ground, and he handed the attention check in his first recreation towards a Division I opponent after a few exhibitions towards lower-tier foes. Flagg hardly ever pressured seems to be on offense, however he did end simply 6 of 15 taking pictures. Flagg’s 0 for 4 mark from past the arc was the largest drag on his grade. General, although, it was begin. Grade: B+
Up subsequent
Duke returns to motion Friday at 6 p.m. ET when the Blue Devils welcome Military to Cameron Indoor Stadium. It will likely be the ultimate tune-up earlier than a Nov. 12 showdown vs. Kentucky within the State Farm Champions Traditional.
Early flash from Flagg in preseason blowout
Flagg had a pleasant and-one end within the first minute of Duke’s 103-47 exhibition beatdown of Arizona State. He added a few free throws shortly thereafter whereas accounting for 4 of his workforce’s six factors. From there, it was largely a quiet day for Flagg because the Blue Devils steamrolled the Solar Devils. He completed with 9 factors, 4 rebounds and three assists on 3 of 9 taking pictures in 21 minutes. Flagg logged simply 5 minutes within the second half because the Blue Devils performed their reserves ample minutes.
“I assumed he simply impacted the sport in quite a lot of methods,” Scheyer mentioned. “After all, his numbers aren’t going to wow you or something. I did not put him again within the recreation, in order that’s a part of it. He has this ‘it’ issue you can’t clarify, the place he simply makes everybody round him higher. His unselfishness, when your greatest participant shouldn’t be looking for stats it has such a tremendous impression on the remainder of your workforce. That is what he does. He guards whoever you ask him to. He is pushing the break, the ball flowed via his arms. I assumed he had recreation and, nonetheless, he is obtained much more in him.”
Flagg shines in exhibition debut
Flagg logged an environment friendly 24 minutes in Duke’s 107-56 exhibition win over Division II Lincoln (PA) on Oct. 19. He led the Blue Devils in factors (22), assists (6) and blocks (4). Whereas the competitors was missing relative to what Flagg will see all through the common season, it was an encouraging first glimpse at his versatility.
This is what head coach Jon Scheyer needed to say about Flagg’s defensive efficiency within the recreation, through The Devils Den: “He has nice instincts, clearly, with how laborious he performs. After which, you add in his really feel, he’ll make some particular performs. In the present day, he had 4 blocks. I feel he may even add in some steals, ideally subsequent time going ahead. However I assumed it was good for him. I assumed he was himself. I assumed even for ‘Coop,’ he can rebound extra. There’s a lot there for him. And I assumed it was nice for him to get a really feel in the present day.
Flagg earns No. 3 spot Prime 100 and 1 record
CBS Sports activities printed its record of the highest 100 and 1 gamers in faculty basketball getting into the brand new season. Flagg registered at No. 3 on the record, trailing solely Mark Sears of Alabama and RJ Davis of North Carolina. This is what senior author Gary Parrish needed to say about Flagg:
“Any time the consensus top-ranked highschool participant within the nation, who additionally doubles because the projected No. 1 total decide within the subsequent NBA Draft, enrolls at Duke, the eyes of the game will give attention to Cameron Indoor Stadium, which is precisely what’s occurred this preseason. Will Flagg stay as much as expectations and grow to be the youngest Wood Award winner in faculty basketball historical past whereas serving to Jon Scheyer advance to his first Last 4 as a coach?
“As all the time, we’ll see. However there isn’t any doubting that the 6-9 ahead from Maine is a generational expertise who can and does impression successful in quite a lot of methods — from scoring to rebounding to passing and guarding. There’s actual substance behind the hype. His first high-profile recreation shall be Nov. 12 towards Kentucky within the Champions Traditional in Atlanta.”
School basketball rankings: The Prime 100 and 1 greatest gamers getting into the 2024-25 season
Kyle Boone
Behind the scenes at Duke
Matt Norlander went behind the scenes with Duke throughout preseason follow. “Prepare, as a result of Duke might be going to be The Greatest Deal in School Basketball once more, doubtlessly reaching the stratospheric ranges of Zion Williamson and firm in 2018-19,” Norlander wrote. “Whether or not the Blue Devils are one of the best workforce, top-10 good or an inconsistent curiosity, coach Jon Scheyer is aware of this season goes to be evaluated and adjudicated extra intensely than his first two.
“The rationale for that’s apparent. Cooper Flagg.”
Cooper Flagg hype units tone for Jon Scheyer’s most crucial Duke season but: An inside have a look at the Blue Devils
Matt Norlander
Cooper Flagg named CBS Sports activities preseason Freshman of the 12 months
Cooper Flagg was unanimously voted CBS Sports activities preseason Freshman of the 12 months and was the one freshman named to the CBS Sports activities 2024-25 Preseason All-America First Staff. This is what Cameron Salerno needed to say about Flagg’s lofty preseason accolades:
“Flagg has generated the hype of being the top-ranked prospect in his respective recruiting class due to his distinctive ability set that can translate to the faculty degree and make him one of the crucial dominant gamers at simply 17 years outdated. Flagg shall be surrounded by a veteran Duke squad with nationwide championship expectations in 12 months 3 of the Jon Scheyer period. No strain, child.”
2024-25 CBS Sports activities Preseason Freshman of the 12 months: Duke’s Cooper Flagg leads frosh All-America workforce
Cameron Salerno
