Cooper Flagg doesn’t mince words. After dragging Duke to yet another victory over NC State, his postgame remarks weren’t celebratory. “For me, it’s no longer a choice of if I want to be aggressive or not. I have to be aggressive at all times and be in attack mode.” Is that a sign of tension brewing in Duke?
Probably not as coach Jon Scheyer came out explaining how a true competitor Flagg truly is! “Sometimes when you do that, you forget about being tired. He had some all-time plays in Cameron just to will us back. That’s a credit to his spirit and what he did in the second half.”
Scheyer knows a competitor when he sees one, and Flagg proved that by scoring 23 of his 28 points in the second half. No panic, just pure fight. But after watching Duke this past week, one big question remains: Are they really built to win it all? While the ACC isn’t offering the toughest competition this season, Duke has still had to rely on Flagg to bail them out.
As the tournament progresses, will it be an issue for Duke to beat the better teams from different conferences? Well, analysts at ‘The Field Of 68: After Dark’ podcast certainly think so! The legendary commentator Scott Van Pelt joined the podcast to share his view on the ongoing conundrum.
He said, ” I just wonder who’s he…and no disrespect to Carolina who they played this weekend but who you playing that’s close to who you’re going to play in your second game in the tournament.” Van Pelt emphasizes the same thing we have all been wondering, will Duke be ready to face the bigger teams? ACC isn’t good in terms of competition and they probably won’t make you ready to face the bigger and better teams when the tournament starts.
Jan 18, 2025; Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, USA; Duke Blue Devils guard Cooper Flagg (2) looks to pass the ball during the second half against the Boston College Eagles at Conte Forum. Mandatory Credit: Eric Canha-Imagn Images
Duke has struggled against top-tier opponents from other conferences this season, falling short against powerhouses like Kentucky and Kansas. However, they’ve also shown flashes of brilliance, including a statement win over Auburn, the current favorites to win the tournament along with Duke according to John Fanta of the Field of 68: After Dark podcast.
The real question remains: how will Duke respond when adversity hits? One thing is certain, Cooper Flagg can’t do it all alone. If the Blue Devils want to make a deep run, he’ll need his teammates to step up when it matters most. Let’s take a look at who they face in the upcoming week!
What’s next for Cooper Flagg and Duke?
The Blue Devils will look to answer some criticism as they take on Hubert Davis-led side the North Carolina Tar Heels the legendary Cameron Indoor Stadium. With ESPN giving them an 89.3% chance to secure the win, Coach Jon Scheyer’s squad is determined to keep their momentum rolling and prove they’re a serious threat as March Madness looms.
Cooper Flagg will also look to continue his good performances. He is currently averaging 19.9 points, 8.0 rebounds, 4.1 assists, and shooting 48.7% from the field and is a favorite to win the Naismith Player of the Year. He’ll look to follow the steps of Kevin Durant, Anthony Davis, and Zion Williamson to become the next freshman to win the NPOY!
Scott Van Pelt is raising key questions about Duke’s readiness for the tournament, especially with the ACC’s weaker competition this season. If the Blue Devils are to make a real impact, they’ll need to prove they can compete with the nation’s best, not just rely on Flagg’s heroics! Stay tuned for more updates!
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