David Teel: Duke’s Cooper Flagg Wows in Blowout Win Over Hokies
“Golly day, he’s terrific.”
In a performance that left fans and commentators alike in awe, Duke’s prized freshman, Cooper Flagg, delivered a jaw-dropping performance in the Blue Devils’ dominant victory over Virginia Tech.
The highly anticipated forward showcased his extraordinary skills, helping his team cruise to an overwhelming win.
Flagg, who has already earned national recognition for his exceptional all-around game, further solidified his reputation as one of college basketball’s most exciting young talents.
His performance was a dazzling combination of scoring, defense, and playmaking, leaving the Hokies scrambling to keep pace.
The game unfolded with Duke establishing control early, as Flagg’s ability to impact both ends of the floor made it clear that he was going to be the focal point of the contest.
Whether it was a thunderous dunk in transition, a pinpoint pass to set up a teammate, or a swatted shot to ignite the crowd, Flagg was everywhere.
His versatility was on full display as he seamlessly transitioned between positions, playing with the confidence of a seasoned veteran rather than a freshman.
Flagg’s contribution went far beyond the box score. His energy was contagious, lifting the Blue Devils to a 30-point lead before halftime.
The Hokies, who had hoped to contain Flagg’s impact, found themselves overwhelmed by his relentless motor and high basketball
Even when Flagg wasn’t directly involved in scoring, he affected the game with his defensive presence, using his length and timing to disrupt Virginia Tech’s offensive flow.
As the second half wore on, Flagg continued to shine. He seemed to be in the right place at the right time, creating turnovers, securing rebounds, and turning defense into fast-break opportunities.
His maturity and poise were evident, even as Duke’s lead expanded further. After the game, head coach Jon Scheyer had nothing but praise for his star freshman.
“He’s got such a unique blend of skills,” Scheyer said. “He’s able to do so many different things on the court. He’s a tremendous player, and his impact goes beyond just scoring. The way he defends and plays with energy is what makes him so special.”
Even the opposing coach couldn’t help but marvel at Flagg’s talent. “Golly day, he’s terrific,” Virginia Tech’s Mike Young remarked after the game. “He’s a nightmare matchup for anyone. The way he plays the game with so much skill, it’s hard to put into words.”
Flagg finished the game with an impressive stat line, contributing in nearly every category, but it was the overall impact of his play that truly stood out. As the Blue Devils move forward, it’s clear that Flagg will be a central figure in their title aspirations. This game was just another reminder of why Cooper Flagg is one of the most talked-about prospects in college basketball this season.