ESPN REPORTS: Cooper Flagg, the Shooting Guard of the University of Duke, Accomplishes Rare Feat in College Basketball
In the world of college basketball, few individual honors carry as much weight as the prestigious Bob Cousy Award and the Midseason Wooden Award. These two awards, named after legendary figures in the sport, have been given to some of the game’s greatest players over the years. This season, a rising star in the college basketball scene, Cooper Flagg, has made a statement that will echo through the annals of the sport for years to come. The shooting guard for the University of Duke has recently accomplished a rare and remarkable feat: earning both the coveted 2025 Bob Cousy Award and the Midseason Wooden Award, among several other accolades, in a dazzling display of dominance on the hardwood.
A Historic Achievement
The Bob Cousy Award, named after the Hall of Fame point guard Bob Cousy, is presented annually to the top point guard in college basketball. While Flagg may not fit the traditional mold of a point guard—standing tall at 6’8″ and playing as a shooting guard—his versatility and on-court IQ have made him a true standout in the game this season. His ability to control the flow of the game, make precise passes, and score from all areas of the court has allowed him to transcend the typical roles of his position.
Similarly, the Midseason Wooden Award, named after legendary UCLA coach John Wooden, is given to the top player in college basketball. The award is highly regarded in the sport, as it recognizes not just talent, but also leadership, sportsmanship, and overall impact on the game. Cooper Flagg’s performance this season has checked every box, earning him recognition from coaches, analysts, and fellow players as one of the best in the nation.
What makes Flagg’s accomplishments even more impressive is that he earned these awards before the season had even finished. The Midseason Wooden Award is given based on a player’s performance up to the midway point of the season, meaning Flagg was able to separate himself from a crowded field of top talent in college basketball.
Cooper Flagg: The Rising Star of Duke
Flagg, a freshman shooting guard for Duke University, arrived in Durham with high expectations. He was one of the most highly sought-after recruits in the country, and his skill set quickly became apparent in the preseason. Known for his elite scoring ability, defensive prowess, and basketball IQ, Flagg was expected to contribute immediately for the Blue Devils. But what has truly set him apart this season has been his ability to elevate his team to new heights.
At the heart of Flagg’s success is his scoring ability. He has averaged a remarkable 21.3 points per game, shooting efficiently from both the field and beyond the arc. His jump shot has become a weapon that opposing teams have struggled to defend, and his ability to create his own shot in clutch moments has made him a go-to player in critical situations.
But Flagg’s impact on the game goes beyond scoring. His defense has been nothing short of elite. Standing at 6’8″ with a 7-foot wingspan, Flagg is a nightmare for opposing players. He has averaged 2.1 steals per game and has the ability to guard multiple positions on the floor. Whether it’s contesting shots at the rim or locking down opposing guards on the perimeter, Flagg has shown time and time again that he is one of the best two-way players in the nation.
Leadership on and off the Court
One of the defining characteristics of Cooper Flagg’s game is his leadership. Even as a freshman, Flagg has taken on a leadership role for Duke. His maturity and poise on the court have earned him the respect of his teammates and coaches alike. Despite being thrust into the spotlight at such a young age, Flagg has shown an incredible ability to stay focused and poised under pressure.
Duke head coach Jon Scheyer has been effusive in his praise for Flagg’s leadership. “Cooper is one of the most gifted players I’ve ever had the privilege of coaching,” Scheyer said. “His understanding of the game, his basketball IQ, and his ability to lead by example are what set him apart from other players at this level. He’s not just a great talent, but a great teammate.”
Off the court, Flagg has been just as impressive. Known for his work ethic and humility, he has quickly become a fan favorite at Duke. He is deeply committed to his community and has used his platform to give back to those in need, whether it’s through charity events or mentoring younger players.
The Road Ahead
With his impressive list of accolades, Cooper Flagg has cemented himself as one of the brightest stars in college basketball. But despite all the attention he has garnered, Flagg remains focused on his team and the task at hand. Duke is in the hunt for a national championship, and Flagg knows that the journey is far from over.
As the Blue Devils move into the second half of the season, all eyes will be on Flagg. The competition for the top individual honors will undoubtedly intensify, but Flagg’s ability to perform on the biggest stage has already made him a favorite for postseason awards.
Flagg’s journey is just beginning, and if his early success is any indication, he has the potential to rewrite the history books of college basketball. Whether it’s leading Duke to a national championship or further solidifying his place as one of the top players in the nation, there’s no doubt that Cooper Flagg’s name will be remembered for years to come.
Conclusion
Cooper Flagg’s exceptional season has already placed him in the conversation as one of the most talented and impactful players in college basketball. Earning both the 2025 Bob Cousy Award and the Midseason Wooden Award is an extraordinary accomplishment, one that places him among the all-time greats in the sport. His combination of scoring, defense, leadership, and work ethic has set him apart, and as the season continues, Cooper Flagg’s legacy is only just beginning. College basketball fans everywhere should be prepared to watch this rising star make history in the coming months.