3 players who could challenge Duke's Cooper Flagg for Freshman of the Year
Even before he has stepped on the court for a college basketball game, Cooper Flagg is assumed to be the best Division I hooper in the 2024-25 season.
In August, CBS Sports' questioned more than 100 D1 coaches about their choice for the best player in the circuit. Flagg came out on top with 36% of the votes and was the only freshman on to be in the top four.
Moreover, Flagg also became the youngest player at the Team USA vs. Team Select showcase, battling with the likes of Anhtony Davis, Jrue Holiday and other Paris Olympic team members.
The notion of Cooper Flagg's dominance has weight to it. However, for the competitive environment the Division I landscape is, it might not be a cakewalk for Flagg to earn the Freshman of the Year awards. So, let's look at the list of leading competitors the Duke freshman could face in the coming season.
Players who could challenge Cooper Flagg for the Freshman of the Year title
#3 VJ Edgecombe
The baylor-s-v-j-edgecombe-golden-state-s-buddy-hield-shine-custom-kobe-pes-fiba-qualifiers" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-is-sponsored="false">highest-ranked recruit for Baylor in the last decade, Edgecombe is a growing player with athletic scoring and one-of-a kind transition abilities. He has used his natural strength and quickness on both ends of the court and shown signs of becoming a consistent shooter.
Duke also pursued VJ Edgecombe this year and was in his top three schools. However, Edgecombe chose Baylor, where he will get more operating freedom than the Blue Devils.
#2 Liam McNeeley
While McNeeley was a top 10 recruit in his class, his connection to Cooper Flagg might come in handy this season. The 6-foot-7 small forward is a high-IQ player with neat mechanics and a 3-point touch that saw him make 40% of his long range shots in his senior year.
He was a pure playmaker rather than a specialist for Montverde Academy, which is where Cooper Flagg stems from.
Liam McNeeley will be suiting up for Dan Hurley and the UConn Huskies next season. Despite lower recruitment landings and stars, McNeeley is in a perfect position to give Flagg a run for the freshman of the year title.
#1 Ace Bailey
Bailey was ranked second in the 2024 class. Mixed his 6-foot-8 frame with his athletic abilities, he will constantly be atop the freshman award race.
He can score in multiple ways, play above the basket and cover all areas of the floor with his strides. Ace Bailey can find his spots, has a good touch on his jumpshots and can also move the rock efficiently.
Moreover, he will partner with Dylan Harper (the third best player in the 2024 class) at Rutgers, which can be a problematic endeavor for Duke and Cooper Flagg.