
In a commanding 76-47 victory over the Pittsburgh Panthers on January 7, 2025, at Cameron Indoor Stadium, Duke freshman Cooper Flagg delivered a performance that has since become a highlight of the season.
Flagg’s dynamic play, particularly a spectacular dunk, not only energized the Blue Devils but also drew comparisons to former Duke star Zion Williamson.
The game was a showcase of Duke’s defensive prowess, as they held Pitt to a mere 31% shooting from the field. This defensive intensity was pivotal in the Blue Devils’ 18-0 run to close the game, underscoring their dominance in the second half.
Cooper Flagg’s individual performance was exceptional. Despite early foul trouble limiting his first-half minutes, he returned with renewed vigor in the second half, contributing 14 of his 19 total points. His stat line included 10 rebounds and 4 assists, marking his sixth double-double of the season.
The game’s defining moment came early in the second half. After securing a steal near the baseline, Flagg sprinted the length of the court and executed a powerful one-handed dunk over Pitt’s 7-foot center, Guillermo Diaz Graham. This play electrified the crowd and was described by Duke head coach Jon Scheyer as “a Zion kind of play,” drawing parallels to the explosive dunks of former Blue Devil Zion Williamson.
Teammate Tyrese Proctor lauded the dunk, stating, “That’s the best in-game dunk I’ve ever seen. It might be one of the best dunks, period.” Flagg, reflecting on the moment, mentioned that he was “angry” after picking up his third foul, which may have fueled his aggressive play. He added, “I jumped, my mind went blank, and it all happened really fast.”
This victory extended Duke’s winning streak to nine games, solidifying their position at the top of the Atlantic Coast Conference standings. The team’s defensive strategy, combined with Flagg’s standout performance, demonstrated their potential as a formidable force in college basketball this season.
Cooper Flagg’s performance against Pitt has not only elevated his status as a top prospect for the 2025 NBA Draft but also set a high standard for collegiate basketball excellence. His blend of defensive acumen, playmaking ability, and scoring prowess continues to captivate fans and analysts alike, marking him as a player to watch in the coming months.