In an unusual turn of events, Duke’s star player, Cooper Flagg, has been named to the All-Tournament team after the NCAA championship despite not participating in the final game. This remarkable achievement places him among a select group of only five players in the last two decades to earn this recognition without playing in the championship match.

Flagg’s team was unfortunately eliminated in the semifinals after squandering a 14-point lead against Houston. Throughout his season, Flagg demonstrated exceptional skills, averaging 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists, and 1.4 blocks per game, securing the title of CBS Sports National Player of the Year. Additionally, he is projected to be the top pick in the upcoming NBA Draft.