Highly-touted freshman Cooper Flagg had an impressive debut for Duke in a dominant 96-62 win over Maine to kick off the 2024-25 college basketball season. The 17-year-old star, projected as the potential No. 1 pick in the NBA Draft, scored 18 points, showcasing his talent to Duke alumni and family members at Cameron Indoor Stadium. Although he struggled with shooting efficiency, Flagg impressed with a one-handed dunk and contributed seven rebounds and five assists.
The Blue Devils, led by freshman Kon Knueppel’s 22 points, shot over 55% from the field with six players scoring in double figures. While the game against Maine was not much of a challenge, it provided a strong start for head coach Jon Scheyer’s third season, with upcoming matchups against strong teams like Kentucky, Arizona, and Kansas.
Flagg’s debut bodes well for Duke’s success this season, as the team looks to continue their strong performance with a talented roster. With Flagg’s potential shining through in his first game, Duke appears to be a serious contender in the ACC this year. The rookie’s performance, along with the team’s depth and skill, sets a promising tone for Duke’s campaign as they aim for success in the upcoming games on their schedule.
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