**Cooper Flagg Reflects on Wooden Award Win Amid Duke’s Final Four Heartbreak**
Just days after being named the winner of the 2025 John R. Wooden Award, Cooper Flagg sat in front of the media with a bittersweet expression etched across his face. The honor, recognizing the nation’s top college basketball player, was one of the most prestigious accolades in the sport. But for Flagg, the celebration was muted—overshadowed by Duke’s crushing loss to the University of Houston in the Final Four.
“It’s a huge honor. I’m grateful, truly,” Flagg said. “But it’s hard to fully enjoy it right now. I wanted to be cutting down nets with my teammates, not watching someone else do it.”
Flagg, the freshman phenom from Newport, Maine, captivated the college basketball world from the moment he stepped on the court for Duke. His unique blend of size, skill, and basketball IQ made him not only the face of the Blue Devils’ season but a transformative figure for the program. Averaging 20.1 points, 9.7 rebounds, and 3.2 blocks per game, Flagg led Duke to a 31-5 record and their deepest NCAA Tournament run since 2015.
But in the Final Four, Houston’s relentless defense and veteran savvy proved too much. Flagg was held to just 13 points on 5-of-14 shooting, a rare off night that mirrored Duke’s overall offensive struggles. The Cougars’ 68-59 victory ended what had felt like a storybook season.
“That game will stick with me for a long time,” Flagg admitted. “I missed shots I usually make. We all did. They were physical, disciplined, and made it tough on every possession. I take responsibility for not being better in that moment.”
Even in defeat, Flagg’s impact was undeniable. His leadership, particularly for a freshman, was praised throughout the year by head coach Jon Scheyer and teammates alike. After the loss, he was the first to address the locker room, urging his teammates to hold their heads high.
“It was emotional. We poured everything into this season,” Flagg said. “But I told the guys—we changed the culture, we made a statement, and we’ll be remembered.”
Winning the Wooden Award as a freshman places Flagg in elite company, joining the likes of Kevin Durant and Anthony Davis. The recognition is a testament to both his individual brilliance and the role he played in Duke’s resurgence.
When asked about his future—whether he would declare for the NBA Draft—Flagg paused, choosing his words carefully.
“I’m going to take some time, talk with my family and coaches,” he said. “Right now, I just want to reflect on everything we’ve been through. This team, this school—it means a lot to me.”
For now, Cooper Flagg is the nation’s top college player and a symbol of Duke basketball’s bright future, even if the season didn’t end with a championship. The Wooden Award sits as a well-deserved recognition—but like everything else for Flagg, it’s part of a much bigger journey.
