Cooper Flagg, recipient of the Wooden Award, considers Duke’s devastating Final Four loss to Houston.
Cooper Flagg, the Duke freshman who earned both the 2025 Wooden Award and Naismith Trophy, is widely regarded as the top prospect for the upcoming NBA Draft. However, his season concluded on a somber note as his Blue Devils fell 70–67 to the Houston Cougars in the Final Four, marking the end of a promising campaign.
A Season to Remember
Flagg’s inaugural season with Duke was nothing short of spectacular. He averaged 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game, leading the Blue Devils to a 37–3 record and an ACC Tournament championship . His individual accolades included being named ACC Player and Rookie of the Year, joining the ranks of Zion Williamson, Marvin Bagley III, and Jahlil Okafor as the only players in conference history to win both awards in the same season .
The Final Four Heartbreak
In the Final Four matchup against Houston, Duke held a 14-point lead with just over eight minutes remaining. However, the Cougars mounted a relentless comeback, stifling Duke’s offense and holding them to only one field goal in the final 10½ minutes. Flagg contributed 27 points, 7 rebounds, and 3 blocks, but his efforts weren’t enough to secure the victory
Reflecting on the Loss
In the aftermath, Flagg expressed a mix of pride and disappointment. “We fought hard all season, but we fell short when it mattered most,” he said. “Houston’s defense was exceptional, and we couldn’t execute down the stretch. It’s a tough way to end, but I’m proud of what we accomplished.”
Head coach Jon Scheyer also acknowledged the team’s resilience throughout the season. “This group gave everything they had,” Scheyer remarked. “Cooper led by example, and while this loss stings, it doesn’t diminish the remarkable journey we’ve had.”
Looking Ahead
Despite the heartbreaking end, Flagg’s future remains bright. He is projected to be the top pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, with scouts praising his versatility, basketball IQ, and leadership qualities. As he prepares for the next chapter in his basketball career, Flagg carries with him the lessons learned and the experiences gained from his time at Duke.
