NEWARK, N.J. -- Duke freshman phenom Cooper Flagg delivered a performance for the ages Thursday night, leading the top-seeded Blue Devils to a 100–93 victory over No. 4 seed Arizona in a high-octane NCAA Tournament clash. The win puts Duke one step away from the Final Four and sets up a marquee East Region battle against Alabama on Saturday.
Flagg's final line was nothing short of spectacular: 30 points, 7 assists, 6 rebounds, and 3 blocks. He became the first Duke player to record 30 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists in an NCAA tournament game since assists became an official statistic in 1984. Additionally, he is only the second player to achieve at least 30 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists, and 3 blocks in an NCAA tournament game since blocks became official in 1986, joining UCLA's Ed O'Bannon, who accomplished the feat in 1994.
"That was one of the best tournament performances I've ever coached or been a part of," Duke coach Jon Scheyer said after the game. Flagg's performance was a testament to his skill and poise, especially considering he had only three points through the first twelve minutes of play.
Early in the game, Arizona had gone punch for punch with Duke, staying competitive until the closing moments of the first half. With the score tied at 42, Flagg hit a deep 3-pointer at the halftime buzzer, turning a tied score into a six-point lead for Duke. This pivotal moment shifted the momentum firmly in their favor, as they opened the second half with a quick 14-5 run, extending their lead to 15 points.
"We talk about inflection points, and the end of the half is a really big inflection point," said Duke's Kon Knueppel. Scheyer added, "That was critical in that moment." Duke's shooting was phenomenal, hitting 60% from the field, 57.9% from beyond the arc, and 85% from the free throw line. This marked the fifth time this season Duke hit the century mark in scoring, and the fourth time since mid-February.
Arizona, led by Caleb Love, who scored a game-high 35 points, attempted to claw back into the game. Love's performance was commendable, as he became the first player to score 35 points with no turnovers against a 1-seed in the NCAA tournament since Michael Finley in 1994. Love's streak of 15 consecutive points helped cut Duke's lead to just five with under two minutes remaining.
Despite Arizona's efforts, Duke responded effectively down the stretch, making 9 of 10 free throws to secure the victory. "They were a machine on offense," Arizona coach Tommy Lloyd remarked. Flagg's ability to maintain composure under pressure was evident as he made crucial free throws, finishing with three of four from the line in the final moments.
Flagg's performance was highlighted by several key moments: a spinning, no-look pass that led to a three-pointer from Sion James, and a massive rejection of an Arizona shot that sent the ball flying into the cheerleaders. His versatility and skill set were on full display, showcasing why he is projected to be the top pick in the upcoming NBA draft.
"What I've wanted from him was not to defer. Just wanted him to fully be him. I thought he was in his element tonight. He was loose, talking, competitive, the whole thing," Scheyer said, praising Flagg's ability to rise to the occasion.
As the game drew to a close, Duke's defense tightened, and Arizona struggled to find open looks. The Blue Devils' ability to maintain their lead was crucial, especially as they faced a determined Arizona squad that refused to back down. Duke's Maliq Brown returned to action after missing two weeks with an injury, providing additional depth to the Blue Devils' lineup.
Looking ahead, Duke will face Alabama in the Elite Eight after the Crimson Tide's impressive 113-88 victory over BYU earlier that evening. This matchup promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams boasting potent offenses and a wealth of talent.
With the victory over Arizona, Duke has now defeated the Wildcats twice this season, having previously won 69-55 in November. The Blue Devils' success in the tournament has solidified their status as a powerhouse, and the upcoming game against Alabama will be another test of their championship aspirations.
As the NCAA tournament continues, all eyes will be on Cooper Flagg and the Duke Blue Devils as they strive for a place in the Final Four. With their sights set on San Antonio, the Blue Devils are determined to keep their march toward the championship alive.
