Cooper Flagg Adds Another Achievement in His Career Almost a Year After Winning the Chipotle Nationals 👏

Nearly a year removed from hoisting the trophy at the 2024 Chipotle Nationals with Montverde Academy, Cooper Flagg has added yet another impressive accomplishment to his already glittering basketball résumé. The phenom from Maine—now considered one of the brightest young stars in American basketball—continues to prove why the hype surrounding him is not just justified but perhaps still underrated.

This week, Flagg was named the Naismith High School Player of the Year, a distinction that recognizes the best high school basketball player in the nation. It’s a crowning achievement for a player who’s been dominating headlines since his breakout performances as an underclassman, and it puts an exclamation point on a high school career filled with jaw-dropping highlights, competitive fire, and a relentless drive to win.

“Winning the Chipotle Nationals last year was an incredible moment,” Flagg said in a recent interview. “But this kind of recognition is really special too. It’s not just about me—it’s about my teammates, my coaches, and everyone who’s helped me get here.”

His path to this point has been nothing short of remarkable. At Montverde, a program known for producing elite-level talent, Flagg didn’t just blend in—he stood out. His versatility on both ends of the court, his ability to guard multiple positions, and his growing offensive game made him a matchup nightmare for every opponent. And even with all the individual talent on a stacked Montverde roster, Flagg consistently led with effort, energy, and leadership beyond his years.

During the 2023-2024 season, he averaged 16.5 points, 7.8 rebounds, 3.4 assists, and 2.7 blocks per game—numbers that only begin to tell the story of his impact. Whether it was a clutch block, a transition dunk, or a perfectly-timed assist, Flagg always seemed to deliver in the biggest moments. And his performance at the Chipotle Nationals last April? Unforgettable. He was named tournament MVP after putting up a dominant 22-point, 10-rebound, 5-block performance in the title game, leading Montverde to its sixth national championship.

Now, almost a year later, the legacy he’s building continues to grow. His latest accolade only strengthens the belief that Flagg is ready for the next level—and he’s not done yet.

Flagg, who recently reclassified to the class of 2024 and committed to Duke University, has the Blue Devils faithful dreaming of a return to the top of the college basketball world. His decision to join one of the most storied programs in the country was met with massive anticipation, and his name is already being mentioned in conversations about being the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.

“He’s got that rare combination of skill, IQ, and competitive edge,” said one NBA scout. “Cooper doesn’t just want to be great—he works like someone who needs to be. That’s scary in the best way.”

Off the court, Flagg has handled the spotlight with humility and maturity. He’s embraced the expectations, but never seemed weighed down by them. Whether it’s representing his hometown of Newport, Maine, or competing on the national stage, he remains focused on growth, both as a player and as a leader.

As the basketball world watches his every move, it’s clear that Flagg’s journey is just beginning. Another year, another achievement—and still, it feels like the best is yet to come.

For fans who saw him dominate at the Chipotle Nationals, this latest honor isn’t a surprise—it’s a confirmation. Cooper Flagg is the real deal, and he’s just getting started. 👏