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The John R. Wooden Award, a prestigious accolade recognizing the nation's most outstanding college basketball players, has announced its 2025 recipients: Duke University's freshman sensation Cooper Flagg and the University of Southern California's standout sophomore JuJu Watkins.
Established in 1976, the John R. Wooden Award is bestowed annually upon the most outstanding men's and women's college basketball players in the United States.
The award emphasizes not only athletic excellence but also academic achievement and character, reflecting the values espoused by the legendary coach John Wooden.
Both Flagg and Watkins demonstrated exceptional skill, leadership, and character throughout the season, earning them this esteemed honor.
Cooper Flagg has made an indelible mark in his inaugural season with the Duke Blue Devils. Averaging 18.9 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game, Flagg has been instrumental in leading Duke to an impressive 35-3 record and a coveted spot in the Final Four.
His remarkable performance places him among an elite group, as he becomes only the fourth freshman to receive the Wooden Award, ing the ranks of Kevin Durant, Anthony Davis, and Zion Williamson.
JuJu Watkins' Impactful Sophomore Season
JuJu Watkins has been a powerhouse for the USC Trojans, averaging 23.9 points, 6.8 rebounds, 3.4 assists, 2.2 steals, and 1.8 blocks per game.
Her dynamic play has propelled the Trojans to a 31-4 record and their first regular-season championship in over three decades.
Despite a season-ending ACL injury during the NCAA tournament, Watkins' contributions have solidified her status as one of the premier players in women's college basketball.
What is the prize money?
The Wooden Award does not provide direct monetary prizes to the winning players. Instead, the award includes the presentation of a distinctive trophy and scholarship grants awarded to the recipients' universities.
Specifically, the Player of the Year in both the men's and women's categories receives a trophy featuring five bronze figures, each representing a fundamental basketball skill. Additionally, their respective universities are awarded a duplicate trophy and a scholarship grant in the player's name.
When and where to watch the Wooden Awards Ceremony
The formal presentation of the John R. Wooden Awards will take place during a live broadcast on ESPN+ on Friday, April 11, at 8 p.m. EDT / 5 p.m. PDT.
This event will also honor Gonzaga's Mark Few with the Wooden Award Legend of Coaching accolade.