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Former Duke head coach Mike Krzyzewski, considered one of college basketball's greatest coaches, stated that freshman Cooper Flagg is "definitely the best freshman that has ever played" at Duke, placing him among the program's elite players like Grant Hill and Christian Laettner. This prompted an analysis to determine where Flagg ranks on Duke's all-time roster after just one season. Compiling the roster proved complex, focusing strictly on collegiate accomplishments and evaluating 53 first-round NBA draft picks since 1985-86, plus other elite players who warranted acknowledgment despite limited playing time (like Kyrie Irving, whose potential was hampered by injury). Player polls, statistical impact, national-level performance, and sheer dominance were considered, with positions ignored to reflect today's game. The goal was a balanced roster, acknowledging the difficulty of comparing multi-year players from older eras to potential one-and-done stars like Flagg or Zion Williamson. Flagg emerged as the most polarizing candidate. Some former Duke players, including ESPN analyst Jay Bilas, argued one season was insufficient for all-time top-five consideration, regardless of talent. A member of the 1994 runner-up team and a star from the 1991/92 championship teams explicitly stated Flagg wouldn't make their all-time starting five, citing the lack of a national championship ring and the accomplishments of others like Grant Hill. They placed Flagg in a category similar to Kyrie Irving. Conversely, others, including a key member of the 2001 championship team, believed an argument could be made for Flagg at power forward, especially considering the modern style of play.

Aces President Nikki Fargas discussed the team's acquisition of forward NaLyssa Smith in a recent interview. Smith, traded from the Dallas Wings on June 30 for a 2027 first-round pick, recently spent her first night in her new Las Vegas apartment, highlighting the rapid transition. The 24-year-old, 6-foot-4 forward has averaged 6.8 points and five rebounds in her first five games with the Aces (10-11) and is set to face her former Dallas team soon. Smith described her transition as smooth, crediting significant help from teammates, especially three-time WNBA MVP A'ja Wilson, whom she called the "biggest help" and who constantly coaches her. Despite initial distress upon learning of the trade (she posted feeling "sick to my stomach" on X), Smith expressed excitement about playing with Wilson, her WNBA "GOAT." The trade separated Smith from her partner, Wings guard-forward DiJonai Carrington. Dallas Wings General Manager Curt Miller stated the trade offer was "too good to pass up," emphasizing the balance between present and future needs, especially given the rarity of acquiring a first-round pick under the new CBA. Fargas explained the Aces' rationale for the trade: they identified a need to improve rebounding (offensively and defensively) and sought physicality, toughness, and scoring ability. Smith was seen as providing needed support for A'ja Wilson while fitting the team culture. Fargas also emphasized viewing Smith, despite her experience, as a "future investment" due to her youth and potential longevity with the organization, especially considering future uncertainties like expansion drafts and the CBA. Fargas confirmed that Aces coach Becky Hammon, who had previously spoken positively about Smith when she was drafted 2nd overall in 2022, was involved in the decision-making process.