Cooper Flagg Stuns as NBA Draft’s Top Pick: A Showcase of Athleticism & Maturity!

Decline for Flagg.

Pit for Cooper.

Hoist the white Flagg.

Once again, the basketball world is abuzz with excitement over a teenage sensation who has NBA franchises eagerly anticipating the future. Two years back, it was Victor Wembanyama, the towering 7′ 3″ French phenomenon known for his shot-blocking prowess and three-point range, who dominated the 2023 draft discussions. Now, it’s Cooper Flagg, a dynamic 6′ 9″ forward from Duke, who has swiftly ascended to become the likely first choice in the upcoming draft.

Flagg recently showcased his talents in Las Vegas during Duke’s high-stakes game against the top-seeded Kansas Jayhawks. His journey from a humble beginning in Maine to stardom is well-documented: from a local high school hero to a standout performer at the USA Basketball camp, where he impressed against NBA All-Stars. At Duke in Durham, N.C., Flagg has largely met the lofty expectations, scoring 26 points against Kentucky and 24 in a victorious effort over Arizona. In most of his initial five games, he’s managed at least two blocks each.

The encounter with Kansas, however, presented a tougher test. The Jayhawks, with a lineup full of seasoned players—like their 24-year-old center, Hunter Dickinson—adopted a physical style of play, employing double teams and aggressive defense on screens. Flagg’s performance in the first half was subdued, with just two points, three assists, and no standout plays.

Calm down, a veteran NBA scout messaged during halftime. Let’s avoid hasty judgments.

Indeed, Flagg improved as the game progressed. He started the second half attempting a daring dunk over Dickinson. Early in the half, he sank his first three-pointer from deep. Flagg’s pick-and-roll plays with teammate Kon Knueppel troubled the Kansas defense. With five minutes remaining, a slick screen from Flagg led to a dunk to level the score. Shortly after, he tied the game again with a left-handed drive. He drew a foul on the ensuing play.

Duke’s coach Jon Scheyer remarked, “Cooper responded well.”

The game wasn’t without its flaws. Flagg missed a crucial free throw towards the end, and in the final moments, he lost control of the ball while driving to the basket, leading to his fourth turnover of the game. A last-second three by Knueppel missed its mark, and Duke suffered its second defeat of the season.

“It’s disappointing,” commented Scheyer. “However, there are valuable lessons to be learned here.”

Observing Flagg, it’s clear why he’s highly regarded by NBA scouts. His athleticism is evident—not just subtly, but strikingly so, which has propelled him to become a top-notch shot-blocker from the weak side. He’s quick enough to guard perimeter players and sturdy enough to contend with bigger opponents inside. While still refining his perimeter skills, Flagg is effective off the dribble and aggressive at the basket.

Flagg also shows a mature approach to the game. When Kansas focused on him defensively in the first half, he continued to facilitate for his teammates, avoiding forced shots and ending with three assists. His game has been likened to Aaron Gordon and has echoes of Scottie Pippen, with a defensive versatility reminiscent of Andrei Kirilenko at his peak. At just 17, Flagg is only beginning to tap into his full potential.

Flagg has garnered widespread admiration. “He’s tall, athletic, and can rise above many defenders,” noted KJ Lewis from Arizona post-game. After playing with him at the USA Basketball camp, Kevin Durant described Flagg as “a hell of a player,” while Devin Booker praised his determination, and Kevin Garnett dubbed him “a cold-ass white boy.”

In the NBA, the strategic positioning for a high draft pick hasn’t quite begun in earnest, but it’s inevitable. While Flagg isn’t Wembanyama, he undoubtedly has the potential to reshape a franchise. Teams like the Utah Jazz, Washington Wizards, Toronto Raptors, and Portland Trail Blazers are likely to do all they can to secure a prospect of his caliber.

There’s significant sacrifice involved in reaching such a position.

Cooper Flagg seems to be worth every bit of it.