Cooper Flagg: Duke’s Future Star with NBA Potential

Cooper Flagg, recently named Naismith Boys High School Basketball Player of the Year, is widely regarded as the best high school prospect since LeBron James. As he heads into the Chipotle Nationals, Flagg’s dominance on the court and his comparison to all-time greats continue to grow.

Flagg Shines at Montverde Academy

Montverde Academy boasts a perfect 30-0 record, and Flagg stands out even among a star-studded lineup. With averages of 16.1 points, 7.6 rebounds, 3.9 assists, and 2.7 blocks per game, Flagg does a bit of everything. His defensive tenacity, coupled with his ability to guard both guards and big men, sets him apart. At 6’9″, Flagg’s lateral quickness and length make him a nightmare for opponents on both ends of the court.

Offensive Skills and Growth

Flagg’s shooting has seen significant improvement, with shooting splits of 55/35/78. While not yet an elite shooter, his confidence in his jump shot has increased, making him a versatile offensive threat. His ability to score inside and out, combined with his athleticism, makes him nearly unguardable.

NBA Comparisons: Flagg’s Unique Blend

Flagg’s game has drawn comparisons to NBA superstars like Giannis Antetokounmpo, Paul George, Jayson Tatum, and Franz Wagner. However, his style more closely mirrors Anthony Davis’ college career. Like Davis, Flagg impacts the game beyond the stat sheet, using his energy and defensive prowess to change the flow of play.

Similarities to Anthony Davis

Anthony Davis had a legendary college season at Kentucky, making his mark with 14.2 points, 10.4 rebounds, and 4.7 blocks per game. Much like Davis, Flagg’s influence goes beyond scoring. His hustle plays, shot-blocking, and rim protection make him a game-changer, and he could have a similar impact at Duke.

Flagg’s Future at Duke

With an elite Duke recruiting class and multiple returning players, Flagg will be part of a team that could go down as one of the best in college history. His time at Duke will be brief, as he is projected to be the number one pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. As Flagg continues to develop, he is poised to leave a lasting legacy in both college and professional basketball.

Cooper Flagg is destined for greatness, with his skill set and competitive drive making him a future NBA star. Whether he will be more like Davis, Tatum, or Giannis remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Flagg’s potential is limitless.

Source: https://lastwordonsports.com/basketball/2024/03/08/duke-blue-devil-cooper-flagg-compares-to-nba-superstar/