The NBA Draft is just around the corner, set to light up Barclays Center on Wednesday night, and all signs point to Duke’s Cooper Flagg being the name called first. This isn’t just speculation—Flagg’s outstanding performance last season for the Blue Devils, where he led the team in points, rebounds, assists, and steals on their journey to the Final Four, has firmly placed him atop the draft board.
When the Dallas Mavericks draft Flagg, he’ll accomplish a notable feat: becoming the second-youngest No. 1 overall pick in NBA history, right behind none other than LeBron James, who was taken first by the Cavaliers back in 2003.
Speaking of James, he had some glowing remarks about Flagg on his “Mind the Game” podcast. It’s clear James sees immense potential in the young talent. He stated, “I personally think that he wants to be great,” and acknowledged Flagg’s versatile skill set, which allows him to excel both with the ball in his hands and off the ball. James further highlighted Flagg’s athleticism and potential for improvement in his shooting, calling him “super athletic” with a “quick second jump.”
James also recognized a significant difference between his journey and what Flagg is about to experience. Unlike James, who entered a young Cavaliers team in need of development, Flagg will step onto a Mavericks roster brimming with seasoned stars like Klay Thompson, Anthony Davis, and Kyrie Irving. This established lineup, coupled with the guidance of Hall of Fame coach Jason Kidd, offers Flagg a unique advantage. With a wealth of knowledge and experience all around him, he will have the opportunity to absorb invaluable lessons while carving out his own path in the NBA.
Reflecting on his experience as a rookie at just 19 years old, James remembers how he was thrust into the spotlight, leading the Cavs with 20 points per game on a team that featured players like Carlos Boozer and Zydrunas Ilgauskas. However, that squad finished fifth in the Central Division, and it wasn’t until his third season that James finally reached the playoffs. In contrast, Flagg’s future looks bright, provided the Mavs stay healthy and maintain their current lineup.
James concluded his praise by emphasizing the advantages Flagg will have: “I think that will be an incredible thing to have that type of presence, that type of leadership, that type of just basketball IQ and knowledge around him every single day from those pieces.” It’s a strong endorsement from one of the game’s greatest, and it sets the stage for Flagg’s potentially remarkable NBA career. As we gear up for the draft, all eyes will be on Cooper Flagg and the impact he’s poised to make from day one.
