Outstanding freshman forward Cooper Flagg propelled Duke to a comeback, 74-64, win over upset-minded NC State on Monday.
With another excellent performance from the Wooden Award contender, it’s easy to understand why the Blue Devils are the favorites to win the men’s 2025 NCAA Tournament.
Flagg, the projected No. 1 pick in the upcoming NBA Draft, scored 28 points on 8-of-17 shooting and added seven rebounds, three assists, one block and one steal.
NC State (9-11, 2-7 ACC) led by as many as 13 in the first half, but Associated Press No. 2 Duke (18-2, 10-0 ACC) surged in the second half to win by double digits.
Flagg led the charge after halftime, scoring 23 points in 18 second-half minutes.
Per the ESPN broadcast, Duke improved to 10-0 in ACC play for the first time since 2007-08. That squad was stunned in the second round of the 2008 NCAA Tournament, losing to No. 7-seed West Virginia, 73-67.
Based on how the Blue Devils are playing, it would be an even bigger shock if this year’s team sees an early March exit.
Per ESPN Bet, Duke (+425) is the favorite to win the 2025 tournament. Considering Flagg continues improving, it has an excellent opportunity to win its first NCAA title since 2015.
Over his last 10 games, Flagg is averaging 23.9 points per game on 54.35 shooting.
Duke is No. 1 in KenPom, ranking sixth in offensive rating and third in defensive rating. While Flagg is the undisputed leader, the Blue Devils are a complete team. By the end of the season, they might be the last team, too.
