The excitement of college basketball season is bubbling up already, and as it approaches, Duke freshman Cooper Flagg has already been making headlines. First, with his outstanding play against Team USA in practices. Now, Flagg has been named to the Associated Press preseason All-America men’s basketball team, making him the sole underclassman among a star-studded group that features five seasoned players from the ACC, Big 12, and SEC. His inclusion highlights his immense talent and the growing expectations for the Blue Devils as they embark on their quest for a national championship.
There is no doubt, Duke Coach Jonathan James Scheyer has a special player on his hands. Flagg, a 6-foot-9 swingman from Newport, Maine, arrived at Duke as the No. 1-rated high school recruit in the nation. His versatility on the court has drawn comparisons to some of the game’s greats. Possessing the skills of a guard while also being able to dominate inside, Flagg has the potential to reshape the landscape of college basketball this season. With NBA scouts already taking notice, Flagg has been projected as a top pick in the upcoming NBA Draft.
Reflecting on the recent honor, Flagg said, “It’s humbling to be recognized among such incredible talent. I’m excited to contribute to my team and show what we can do this season.” His performance will be crucial for a Duke team that is currently ranked No. 7 in the AP Top 25, as they seek to return to the NCAA Tournament’s elite stages.
Flagg’s inclusion on the All-America team comes as part of a larger narrative involving several prominent players who opted to return to college basketball rather than enter the NBA Draft. Alabama’s Mark Sears and North Carolina’s RJ Davis headline this group, both of whom also secured spots on the preseason All-America team. Sears, who led Alabama to its first Final Four appearance last season, earned nearly unanimous support from voters, while Davis, the reigning ACC Player of the Year, is poised to chase records this year.
The Competitors
Alongside Flagg, the All-America squad features Kansas center Hunter Dickinson, Auburn forward Johni Broome, and Arizona guard Caleb Love, each of whom brings their own unique strengths to the table. Dickinson, a standout transfer from Michigan, averaged nearly a double-double last season and is a significant factor in Kansas being ranked No. 1 heading into the new season. Broome, returning for his fifth year, is focused on elevating Auburn to new heights, while Love’s high-scoring prowess continues to ignite hopes for Arizona.
Caleb Love is a former Tar Heel and back court mate of RJ Davis. We are obviously a little partial towards Caleb for that reason. He had an outstanding season last year at Arizona, earning First Team All-American honors from ESPN and multiple accolades, including Second Team selections from NABC and USBWA, and Third Team honors from The Sporting News and AP. Named the Pac-12 Player of the Year and a finalist for the Jerry West Shooting Guard of the Year Award, he started all 36 games, averaging 18.0 points while leading the Wildcats in scoring and making a record 92 three-pointers. Love finished fourth in the Pac-12 in overall scoring and second in conference-only scoring (20.0 points per game), setting career highs in several categories, including field goal percentage (.413) and total rebounds (172). His season included 14 games with 20 or more points, highlighted by a career-high 36-point performance at Oregon, and he was also named to the Naismith Player of the Year Preseason Watch List.
Davis, a key player for North Carolina, stated, “I know there’s more work to be done. I want to leave a legacy, and that starts with this season.” His ambition reflects a broader sentiment among these returning stars, each of whom has a chip on their shoulder and a clear vision for what they want to accomplish.
Expectations in Durham
For Duke, the stakes are high as they look to capitalize on Flagg’s talents and the recruiting class that has generated buzz throughout the offseason. With Coach Jon Scheyer at the helm, the Blue Devils are not just hoping to make a splash; they aim to make a deep run in March Madness. Flagg’s ability to adapt and thrive in high-pressure situations will be a key factor in their success.
As the countdown to the season opener on November 4 continues, all eyes will be on Flagg and his fellow All-Americans. The combination of experience and youthful exuberance in college basketball promises to deliver thrilling matchups and unforgettable moments.
As fans eagerly await the tip-off, Flagg’s presence on the All-America team serves as a reminder that the future of college basketball is bright, and that the battle for glory will be fiercely contested on the hardwood this season.