Two prospective Duke basketball players stepped into the limelight during the McDonald’s All-American Game, held on Tuesday night, marking one of the paramount events in high school basketball.
All eyes were fixed on Cooper Flagg, regarded as the top player in the Class of 2024, amidst the gathering of elite prospects in Houston. However, Flagg’s performance was relatively subdued once the game commenced. He shared the starting lineup with Isaiah Evans, the lone other future Blue Devil present at the event. Flagg’s stat line tallied eight points, six rebounds, and three assists, shooting 3-of-9 from the field and converting 1-of-4 attempts from beyond the arc.
One notable highlight for Flagg was a breakaway dunk, facilitated by an outlet pass from Evans, showcasing his athleticism. Defensively, Flagg exhibited his versatility and rim protection skills, exemplified by a block that soared into the first row after a recovery from the weak side.
Meanwhile, Evans encountered difficulties on the offensive end, with his solitary highlight being an assist on Flagg’s dunk. Struggling to find his rhythm, Evans failed to convert any of his six shots, including four from 3-point range. He concluded the game with four rebounds and a steal.
Following the All-American Game, Flagg is set to join his high school team, Montverde Academy (Fla.), in Indianapolis for the Chipotle Nationals, commencing on Thursday with hopes of clinching a National Championship. Evans, on the other hand, will resume action in two weeks, participating in the Nike Hoop Summit scheduled for Saturday, April 13 in Portland.
Moreover, Flagg and Patrick Ngongba II earned spots on the Team USA roster, although Ngongba II’s participation is doubtful due to injury. Additionally, the latest Duke commit, Khaman Maluach, will feature in the event for Team World.
