Duke's Phenom Cooper Flagg and Auburn's Johni Broome have emerged as the frontrunners for the prestigious John R. Wooden Award, highlighting the latest Top 20 list announced this Tuesday. The Wooden Award annually honors the most outstanding men's college basketball player.

Flagg, a freshman sensation for Duke, is not just leading his team but also setting the collegiate basketball world ablaze with averages of 19.5 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game. His remarkable performance in ACC play has been even more impressive, with a scoring average of 21.9 points on a 53.1% field goal shooting. His standout moment came with a record-setting 42-point game against Notre Dame, reinforcing his status as a likely No. 1 pick in the upcoming NBA Draft.

On the other hand, Auburn's Johni Broome has been a powerhouse, rebounding strongly after an ankle injury mid-January. His stats speak volumes with 18.1 points, 10.9 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game, making him a formidable opponent for any team and a critical player in Auburn's current top ranking in the AP poll.

Other Contenders Highlighting the Race:

• Braden Smith of Purdue is making waves with 16.1 points and 8.8 assists per game, guiding his team towards another Big Ten title.

• Kam Jones from Marquette continues to impress, maintaining a strong presence on the court with 19.2 points and 6.0 assists.

  Teams with Multiple Nominees:

• Rutgers and Iowa State each boast two players on the prestigious list, underscoring their strong team dynamics and individual talents.

  The Wooden Award remains a highly coveted accolade, awarded since 1977, and this year's race is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent history. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on these athletes as they strive to leave their mark on college basketball.