Jon Scheyer Praises Cooper Flagg for Leadership and Team-First Attitude in Win Over Wofford
In a thrilling matchup against Wofford, the Duke Blue Devils secured another convincing victory, but the spotlight wasn’t solely on their scoreboard dominance. Instead, it shone brightly on freshman sensation Cooper Flagg. While Flagg’s performance on the court was stellar, it was his attitude toward his teammates that drew the highest praise from head coach Jon Scheyer.
Scheyer’s comments after the game highlighted Flagg’s maturity, leadership, and selfless approach, qualities that make him stand out beyond his immense talent. In a team sport often driven by individual accolades, Flagg’s team-first mindset is setting the tone for a successful season at Duke.
A Performance to Remember
Flagg played a pivotal role in Duke’s victory over Wofford, contributing across the board with 22 points, 12 rebounds, 6 assists, and 3 blocks. While his stats impressed, it was his ability to lift his teammates on both ends of the court that left an indelible mark on the game.
From making sharp passes to encouraging his teammates during tense moments, Flagg’s impact was evident beyond the box score. His ability to recognize opportunities for others to shine highlighted his basketball IQ and a maturity beyond his years.
“Cooper doesn’t just play the game—he elevates everyone around him,” Scheyer said postgame. “It’s rare to see a player who can dominate individually and still be focused on the team’s success. That’s what makes him so special.”
Scheyer’s High Praise
Jon Scheyer, now in his second season as Duke’s head coach, has worked with countless elite players. Yet, his praise for Flagg carried a deeper level of appreciation. Scheyer highlighted Flagg’s leadership, not through loud speeches, but through his actions on and off the court.
“One of the things that stands out about Cooper is how much he cares about his teammates,” Scheyer said. “He’s always communicating, always positive, and always looking to uplift the guys around him. That’s something you can’t teach—it’s who he is.”
Scheyer also pointed to a pivotal moment during the game as an example of Flagg’s character. After a teammate missed a crucial free throw, Flagg was the first to offer words of encouragement, patting the player on the back and urging him to keep his head up. Moments later, that same teammate made a key defensive stop, and Flagg was the first to celebrate the play.
“Those little moments matter,” Scheyer explained. “Cooper knows it’s about more than just making shots—it’s about creating a culture where everyone feels confident and supported. That’s leadership.”
A Team-First Mindset
Flagg’s approach to the game reflects a team-first mentality that has quickly endeared him to his teammates and coaches. While his skill set positions him as a potential NBA lottery pick, Flagg’s focus remains on helping the Blue Devils succeed as a unit.
When asked about his mindset after the game, Flagg deflected attention from his personal achievements and credited his teammates.
“We’re all in this together,” Flagg said. “I just want to do whatever I can to help the team win. Whether that’s scoring, passing, or just bringing energy, it’s all about us as a group.”
His humility has resonated within the locker room, fostering a strong bond among the players. Teammates have described Flagg as a “leader by example” and someone who inspires them to play harder.
Impact on Duke’s Season
With Flagg leading the charge, Duke is poised for a deep run this season. His ability to blend individual brilliance with a selfless approach is rare, and it sets the Blue Devils apart from many other teams.
Scheyer emphasized how Flagg’s attitude is helping establish a culture of accountability and togetherness. “When your best player is also your most selfless, it changes everything,” Scheyer said. “Cooper sets the tone for what we want to be as a program—hardworking, united, and focused on the bigger picture.”
The win over Wofford was just one step in a long season, but it underscored the impact Flagg is having on Duke’s trajectory. With his combination of talent, leadership, and humility, Flagg is not only making waves in college basketball but also setting a standard for what it means to be a true teammate.
Conclusion
Duke’s victory over Wofford was a testament to the team’s collective effort, but it also showcased why Cooper Flagg is such a transformative player. His leadership, humility, and commitment to his teammates have earned him high praise from Jon Scheyer and cemented his role as a cornerstone of the Blue Devils’ success.
As Scheyer put it, “Cooper is the type of player every coach dreams of—he’s a superstar on the court and an even better teammate off it.” For Duke, Flagg’s team-first attitude is just as valuable as his elite skills, and it’s a key reason why they’re poised to achieve great things this season.
