Is Cooper Flagg Duke’s greatest freshman ever? ‘Definitely’ the best forward, according to Coach K

**Is Cooper Flagg Duke’s Greatest Freshman Ever? ‘Definitely’ the Best Forward, According to Coach K**

 

*By \[Your Name], Staff Writer*

 

**Durham, N.C. — June 5, 2025** — The hype surrounding Cooper Flagg entering his freshman season at Duke was unprecedented, and now, just months into his college career, the question is being seriously asked: Is he the greatest freshman in Duke history?

 

According to legendary Blue Devils coach Mike Krzyzewski, there’s no doubt about one thing: Flagg is the best forward to ever wear the Duke jersey.

 

“Definitely the best freshman forward we’ve ever had,” Coach K said during an appearance on ESPN Radio. “And I’ve seen a lot of great ones — Grant Hill, Zion \[Williamson], Jayson Tatum — but Cooper brings a unique combination of basketball IQ, toughness, and leadership that’s rare at any level.”

 

At 6-foot-9 with elite two-way ability, Flagg has been a dominant force early in the 2024–25 season, averaging 21.3 points, 9.4 rebounds, 3.1 blocks, and 2.7 assists per game through Duke’s first 12 contests. He’s led the Blue Devils to an undefeated start, anchoring both ends of the floor and electrifying fans with a highlight reel that’s growing by the game.

 

Comparisons to past Duke greats are inevitable. Zion Williamson’s explosive freshman campaign in 2018–19 still sets the benchmark for statistical dominance, while Kyrie Irving’s talent — albeit showcased in just 11 games — remains unforgettable. But Flagg’s all-around impact, particularly on defense and as a vocal leader, is setting him apart.

 

“He plays like a senior,” said current head coach Jon Scheyer. “The way he communicates, the way he reads the game — it’s like having a coach on the floor.”

 

Recruiting analysts had Flagg pegged as a generational talent coming out of Montverde Academy, and so far, he’s lived up to — and maybe even exceeded — the hype. If he continues on this trajectory, his name could not only top the list of Duke freshmen but also stake a claim among the all-time college greats.

 

Coach K, who coached dozens of NBA-bound players in his four decades at Duke, put it simply: “He’s the kind of player you only see once in a generation — and he chose Duke.”

 

As the season progresses, fans and analysts alike will watch closely to see if Flagg can carry Duke to another national title — and solidify his legacy as not just the best freshman forward in program history, but perha

ps the best, period.