Why Cooper Flagg should win National Player of the Year instead of Johni Broome, according to Duke players.

The debate for National Player of the Year in college basketball often centers around a few standout players who demonstrate exceptional individual talent and influence on their teams’ successes. This year, the race has narrowed down to two players: Cooper Flagg and Johni Broome. While Broome has had an outstanding season for Auburn, Cooper Flagg has emerged as a transcendent talent for Duke, making a strong case for why he should be named NPOY over Broome. Duke players, with their unique perspective from the heart of one of college basketball’s elite programs, are likely to have a particular appreciation for Flagg’s overall impact. They would undoubtedly argue that his combination of skill, leadership, and ability to elevate his team makes him the more deserving candidate for this prestigious award.

1. Cooper Flagg’s All-Around Skill Set

Cooper Flagg’s playing style is built on versatility, intelligence, and high basketball IQ. Standing at 6’8″, Flagg is a dynamic force both on offense and defense. His ability to affect the game on both ends of the floor sets him apart from other players in the NPOY conversation, including Johni Broome. Duke players would likely highlight Flagg’s exceptional court vision and passing ability. As a forward who can make plays from multiple positions, he not only scores efficiently but also sets up his teammates for success. Flagg’s basketball IQ allows him to make split-second decisions that elevate the play of everyone around him, an intangible quality that Duke players, who are familiar with high-level team play, would certainly recognize and value.

Offensive Impact

On the offensive side of the ball, Flagg has demonstrated a range that is unusual for someone of his size and position. He can stretch the floor as a shooter, attack the rim with force, and finish through contact, all while reading the defense and making the right play. For a Duke team that has often relied on balanced offensive systems under Coach K and his successors, Flagg’s ability to handle the ball and run the offense when needed makes him invaluable. His offensive versatility is something that Duke players would praise because it allows their team to flow smoothly, particularly in high-pressure moments when a player with multiple tools at his disposal is crucial.

Defensive Presence

Duke players would also recognize Cooper Flagg’s disruptive defensive ability. Flagg’s combination of size, length, and timing makes him an elite shot-blocker and rebounder, while his lateral quickness allows him to guard multiple positions. He can anchor a defense, contest shots, and create fast-break opportunities through steals or deflections. In a conference like the ACC, where defensive intensity is paramount, Duke players would know firsthand how important it is to have a player like Flagg who can completely change the complexion of a game on the defensive end. His ability to shut down opponents’ best players and his knack for making big defensive plays would be among the reasons why Duke players feel he is more deserving of the NPOY award.

2. Johni Broome’s Strong Leadership and Scoring Ability

Johni Broome, Auburn’s standout player, also has a compelling case for NPOY honors. Broome’s ability to score in a variety of ways makes him a threat for any defense, and his leadership has been crucial to Auburn’s success this season. He is a dynamic scorer, capable of putting up big numbers both in the post and beyond the arc. His presence on the floor is undeniably important to Auburn, and Duke players would certainly acknowledge his scoring prowess. However, while Broome’s individual scoring numbers are impressive, Duke players may point out that Flagg’s ability to contribute across the board, particularly in areas such as defense and playmaking, gives him an edge in the NPOY race.

Offensive Efficiency

Broome has been consistent in leading Auburn’s offense, particularly in high-stakes games. His ability to score with ease from anywhere on the floor is something that stands out. He has become a go-to option in clutch situations, and his leadership has helped Auburn stay competitive in the SEC. However, while Broome’s scoring is his hallmark, Duke players would likely feel that Flagg’s all-around impact—ranging from playmaking to defense—makes him a more well-rounded player overall.

Defensive Limitations

One area where Duke players might point out a disparity between Broome and Flagg is on the defensive end. While Broome has the ability to make key defensive plays, his defensive consistency and versatility have not reached the same level as Flagg’s. For Duke players, who have been part of teams that rely heavily on strong defensive schemes, the ability to be an elite defender is a crucial factor in determining the NPOY. Broome, while a solid defender, does not possess the same game-changing ability on that side of the ball that Flagg brings, and that could be seen as a reason why Flagg should be the NPOY over Broome.

3. Impact on Team Success

One of the most significant arguments that Duke players would likely make for Cooper Flagg winning NPOY is his undeniable impact on team success. While both Flagg and Broome are the focal points of their respective teams, Flagg’s leadership and influence on a top-tier program like Duke is a testament to his transcendent skill. Duke players would likely argue that Flagg’s ability to elevate those around him, make his teammates better, and lead his team to success in high-pressure games is what sets him apart.

Leadership in High-Pressure Situations

Flagg has thrived in big moments, often being the one to carry Duke when the game is on the line. His leadership on and off the court has been a stabilizing factor for the Blue Devils, especially in crucial games against top-tier ACC opponents. In the NCAA tournament and during conference play, Flagg’s poise and ability to make big plays at crucial moments have made a difference. Duke players understand that while scoring is important, the true measure of greatness is how a player impacts the team’s success in close games and postseason play. Flagg’s contributions in these moments, especially in games against high-ranked teams, are what elevate him in the NPOY conversation.

Broome’s Strong Individual Effort, But Lack of Impact on Team

While Broome has been fantastic for Auburn, his team has not been as consistently dominant as Duke this season. Duke players may point out that despite Broome’s impressive individual performances, Auburn has had inconsistencies that limit Broome’s overall impact on the team’s success. Duke players would likely argue that Flagg’s contributions have been integral to Duke’s position at the top of the ACC and their dominance on both sides of the ball. The strength of Flagg’s supporting cast, and his ability to bring out the best in them, further solidifies why he should be the NPOY over Broome.

4. Duke Players’ Perspective on Championship Potential

Finally, the players of Duke, who are accustomed to competing for championships, would also consider Flagg’s potential to lead his team to a national title. In a season full of contenders, Duke’s deep run in the tournament and their positioning for a national title gives Flagg an even greater case for the award. His leadership on both ends of the floor, his clutch performances, and his ability to guide Duke through the rigors of the ACC and NCAA tournament make him the more likely candidate for NPOY from the Duke players’ perspective.