COOPER Flagg proved his class once again with a stunning performance to lead Duke into the Elite Eight.
The freshman superstar put in a historic performance in Thursday’s March Madness win over Arizona.
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The 18-year-old scored 30 points in the 100-93 Sweet 16 victory.
He also had six rebounds, seven assists and three blocks in Newark, New Jersey.
Flagg became the first Duke player to finish with 30 points, five rebounds and five assists in an NCAA Tournament game since records began in 1984.
According to ESPN, he was also the second player from any team to have 30 points, five rebounds, five assists and three blocks in the tournament since 1986.
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“That was one of the best tournament performances I’ve ever coached or been a part of,” Duke coach Jon Scheyer said.
“He just did what he was supposed to do, and he’ll move on and get ready for Alabama.
“I think that’s the beauty of it with him. He doesn’t get caught up in all that.
“What I’ve wanted from him is not to defer.
“I’ve just wanted him to fully be him, and I thought he was that.
“He was in his element tonight. He was him. He had just a great personality.
“He was loose, talking, competitive, the whole thing. So yeah, he impresses me all the time.”
Duke will face Alabama on Saturday for a spot in the Final Four.
Flagg came into the tournament under an injury cloud.
The 18-year-old took an awkward fall during the ACC Tournament matchup against Georgia Tech.
Flagg left fans worried later on as he was wheelchaired to the locker room after appearing to hurt his ankle.
But he’s been on top form in March Madness and his team are one win away from sealing a spot in San Antonio, Texas for the final stages.
“I think just playing with really good energy, trusting our game plan, trusting my teammates,” Flagg said.
“They put me in some really good spots tonight. Coach, as well, put me in some really good spots.
“I think just making the right play and just letting the game happen.”
Duke’s game with Alabama tips off at 8.49 pm ET Saturday in Newark, New Jersey.
Fans were left confused at the schedule with a late night start on the east coast.
Texas Tech faces Florida at 6.09 pm ET in the first Elite Eight game.
But that contest is in San Francisco, California, meaning a 3.09 pm local time tip off.
