**Cooper Flagg’s First 12 Games: Already Outshining Duke Legend Zion Williamson?**
The hype surrounding Cooper Flagg’s arrival at Duke was undeniable. Regarded as one of the most highly anticipated recruits in recent memory, comparisons to past Blue Devil greats were inevitable. Twelve games into his freshman campaign, the conversation has shifted from “how good is he?” to “is he already outshining Zion Williamson?”
Zion’s lone season at Duke in 2018-19 was a spectacle. He averaged 22.6 points, 8.9 rebounds, and 2.1 assists while shooting a blistering 68% from the field through his first 12 games. His high-flying dunks and unstoppable physicality made him a household name, but Flagg is carving his own path, offering a skill set that’s as diverse as it is effective.
Flagg’s first dozen games have been nothing short of remarkable. The 6’9” freshman forward is averaging 20.8 points, 10.4 rebounds, 3.2 assists, and an impressive 3.8 blocks per game, showcasing his versatility on both ends of the floor. His defensive prowess is what separates him early on—while Zion overwhelmed opponents with his size and strength, Flagg combines length, timing, and basketball IQ to dominate the defensive side of the game. His ability to guard multiple positions and serve as a rim protector is drawing comparisons to NBA stars like Anthony Davis and Kevin Garnett.
On offense, Flagg displays a more refined perimeter game than Zion did at the same stage. He’s already connecting on 38% of his three-point attempts, demonstrating a shooting touch that Zion developed later. Flagg’s mid-range arsenal and passing ability further highlight his polish, making him an offensive weapon in multiple areas.
While it’s premature to declare Flagg the better Duke freshman, his impact has been undeniable. Zion’s unmatched explosiveness captivated fans, but Flagg’s all-around game might be even more valuable in today’s basketball landscape. If his current trajectory continues, Cooper Flagg could leave Durham with a legacy rivaling, or even surpassing, that of Zion Williamson.
