ESPN analyst and Naismith Hall of Famer Dick Vitale delivered the ultimate praise for Duke freshman Cooper Flagg during the Blue Devils’ rivalry game against North Carolina on Saturday. The No. 2 Blue Devils defeated the Tar Heels 87-70, with Flagg contributing 21 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists.
Dick Vitale’s 4-Word Praise for Cooper Flagg
Vitale, who has been covering college basketball for 45 years, took to X (formerly Twitter) to share his thoughts on Flagg’s performance shortly after Duke’s dominant win at Cameron Indoor Stadium just this week, ahead of Vitale’s return to broadcasting.
All I can say in 45 years @espn I have not seen a player as young as @Cooper_Flagg so skilled – he is in his own World – he is THAT GOOD!
— Dick Vitale (@DickieV) February 1, 2025
“All I can say in 45 years at ESPN I have not seen a player as young as Cooper Flagg so skilled – he is in his own World – he is THAT GOOD!” Vitale wrote.
The basketball world continues to react to Flagg’s standout play.
ESPN analyst and former Duke player and assistant coach Jay Bilas called Flagg the most competitive freshman he has ever seen.
Bilas clarified that while Flagg may not be the most purely talented freshman in Duke history, his competitiveness and drive set him apart from any other first-year player he has covered.
Flagg’s Growth Key to Duke’s Success
Flagg’s continued development will be crucial for Duke’s long-term success this season. His unique skill set, maturity, and all-around game have already drawn comparisons to some of the sport’s greats. If he maintains his upward trajectory, he has the potential to leave a lasting legacy in college basketball.
MORE: Bigger Than Basketball, Cooper Flagg Dominates Off the Court
The Blue Devils return to action Wednesday against Syracuse. Before Flagg potentially enters the NBA Draft, Duke will look to him to lead the team on a deep NCAA Tournament run.
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