Cooper Flagg shines in potential Cameron farewell

DURHAM, N.C. – Duke University was on the verge of achieving an unbeaten home record with a dominant victory over Wake Forest during Senior Night. As the game approached its conclusion, the focus shifted to freshman standout Cooper Flagg, who exited the game—potentially for his last appearance at Cameron Indoor Stadium.

The passionate “Cameron Crazies” fans encouraged their young star with chants of “One more year! One more year!” after Flagg showcased another impressive performance during Monday’s 93-60 triumph over the Demon Deacons. When asked if he noticed the chants, Flagg confirmed he did, but remained steadfast in his mindset: “I’m living in the present right now, living in the moment, taking it day by day. … I don’t know what the future holds.”

While Flagg is considered a prime candidate for the No. 1 overall NBA draft pick, he is not ready to disclose his intentions regarding his future. This season was a significant journey for the 6-foot-9 talent, who faced immense expectations as a 17-year-old arrivee but is now seen as a seasoned athlete crucial to Duke’s championship ambitions in March.

During the game against Wake Forest, Flagg contributed 28 points, eight rebounds, seven assists, three blocks, and two steals. He notably scored 18 points on 8-for-10 shooting in the second half, helping Duke advance from a 13-point halftime lead to a 40-point victory margin. Throughout, Flagg demonstrated his versatile gameplay with seamless highlights, including pinpoint passes and consistent 3-point shots. His transition game also shone, exemplified when he maneuvered past Wake Forest’s Cam Hildreth for a two-handed dunk, sending the crowd into spirited roars.

Flagg left the game with 3:34 remaining, interacting warmly with teammates Sion James and Isaiah Evans. He walked to the Duke bench, exchanging high-fives and hugs with coach Jon Scheyer, as well as other coaches and teammates, while acknowledging the possibility of returning for another season.

“The talent speaks for itself. Love coaching his talent,” remarked Scheyer. “But I love coaching the person. He’s all about the right stuff.”

Reflecting on the possibility that this might have been his final match at Cameron, Flagg admitted to contemplating it earlier in the day, reverting to his mantra of living in the moment. If this was indeed his last game, he left behind indelible memories.

Over the season, Flagg achieved memorable feats at the venue, including a resounding win over North Carolina, recording an ACC freshman record of 42 points against Notre Dame, and executing a spectacular dunk against Pittsburgh’s towering defense.

“It’s the best place in college basketball for sure,” Flagg said. “I’ve loved every single minute of being here. I’ve loved everybody I’ve met, everybody I’ve been around for this whole year. It’s been an amazing year.”