Jayson Tatum Praises Duke’s Cooper Flagg for Exceptional Play and Competitive Spirit

Jayson Tatum Praises Duke’s Cooper Flagg for Exceptional Play and Competitive Spirit

Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum recently expressed high regard for Duke University’s rising star, Cooper Flagg. Tatum’s admiration comes during a discussion on the popular podcast New Heights, where he highlighted Flagg’s remarkable skills and tenacity on the court.

According to Tatum, his first impression of Flagg was overwhelmingly positive. He noted, “The first impression I had of Coop was just how hard he played, how he competed.” Such qualities are often overlooked in high school basketball, making Flagg’s approach even more impressive. Tatum commented further, saying, “In high school, it’s rare to see a guy that wants to guard the other best player, trying to block every shot, rebounding. And he just plays the right way.”

Tatum first witnessed Flagg’s performance two years ago at his own summer camp. Reflecting on that moment, he remarked, “He has a great feel for the game. He knows how to set a screen. He knows when to cut. He likes to get his teammates involved, and it’s been on full display all season and a big reason why they have a chance to win a championship.” Such profound insight underscores Flagg’s pivotal role in Duke’s pursuit of glory this season.

Blockbuster Season for the Blue Devils

Flagg’s talent has significantly contributed to a Duke team that boasts an impressive 33-3 record as they advance to the Sweet 16. Throughout the season, Flagg garnered recognition as a consensus All-American for the 2024-25 campaign and stands as a leading candidate for Player of the Year. With averages of 18.9 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.5 assists, 1.5 steals, and 1.3 blocks per game, Flagg’s performance has caught the attention of scouts and fans alike.

Injury Concerns and Resilience

However, the journey hasn’t been without its challenges. Flagg sustained an ankle injury during Duke’s victory against Georgia Tech in the ACC tournament quarterfinals, which sidelined him for the remainder of the tournament. Despite his absence, Duke managed to clinch the championship, showcasing the team’s depth and resilience.

After recovering from the injury, Flagg showcased his skills in Duke’s dominant 93-49 victory over No. 16-seeded Mount St. Mary’s. He played an impressive 22 minutes, scoring 14 points while also registering seven rebounds, five assists, and a block. His return was a much-needed boost for the Blue Devils as they headed into the knockout stages.

Advancing to the Next Round

Flagg continued to demonstrate his prowess in the round of 32, contributing significantly to Duke’s 89-66 triumph over Baylor. In this match, he played 29 minutes and delivered a standout performance with 18 points, nine rebounds, six assists, and one block. Such contributions are vital to Duke’s aspirations as they head into the next challenge.

As Duke prepares for their Sweet 16 matchup against No. 4-seeded Arizona, Flagg is expected to be a focal point for the team. The game is set for Thursday at 9:40 p.m. ET and expects significant viewership fueled by the excitement surrounding Flagg and the Blue Devils’ playoff run.

The Legacy of Jayson Tatum

Tatum, a former Duke player himself, brings a unique perspective on Flagg’s journey. He played just one season at Duke during the 2016-2017 season, where he was unable to secure a national championship. Tatum averaged 16.8 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per game, making a considerable impact before declaring for the NBA draft.

Since being selected as the No. 3 overall pick by the Boston Celtics in 2017, Tatum has established himself as one of the premier players in the league. Over the course of his NBA career, he achieved All-Star status six times and was instrumental in last season’s Celtics title run.

Inspiration for Young Players

With Tatum’s accolades and Flagg’s emerging potential, their relationship signals a remarkable depth of basketball talent coming from Duke. Tatum’s admiration for Flagg serves as inspiration for aspiring athletes. Recognizing talents who embody hard work, dedication, and sportsmanship is crucial for the development of future stars.

With both players continuing to refine their skills and achieve new milestones, basketball fans eagerly await what is next for them. Tatum’s guidance and praise can provide significant encouragement for Flagg as he navigates his career in college basketball and beyond.

As the tournament unfolds, all eyes will be on how Flagg performs against Arizona and what the rest of the season holds for him and the Blue Devils. With strong support from champions like Tatum and the trust placed in his abilities, Flagg appears poised for a prosperous future on the court.

Follow this exciting journey as NCAA basketball captivates fans around the nation. Stay tuned for updates on Duke’s progress and Cooper Flagg’s remarkable growth as a player.