Cooper Flagg, a 6’9 combo forward, has announced his intention to enter the 2025 NBA Draft. The projected top pick is considered a generational talent due to his versatility and ability to play both sides of the floor.
Flagg’s decision makes financial sense as joining the league sooner will make him eligible for a maximum rookie extension by the fall of 2028, rather than waiting until 2029 if he stayed at Duke. This strategic move also reduces the risk of injury in his sophomore year.
Flagg’s talent level is evident in his impressive statistics at Duke – 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists, and 1.4 steals per game. His exceptional playmaking skills allow him to produce over four assists per game, showcasing his ability to read the floor and react to defensive pressure.
Flagg’s defensive versatility is well-suited for today’s NBA, where teams often switch between schemes. His size, athleticism, and skillset make him a formidable defender who can handle most situations.
The scoring aspect of Flagg’s game has also come into question, with some doubting his ability to score effectively in college. However, he has proven himself to be an efficient shooter (38.5% from range) and scorer, both in the short-roll and on the move.
As Flagg enters the NBA, fans can expect elite defense and play finishing in the initial stages, followed by elite playmaking and overall production as he ages. With his impressive skills and growth potential, it’s no surprise that Flagg is considered the heavy favorite to be drafted first overall this June.
Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/mortenjensen/2025/04/21/get-ready-top-prospect-cooper-flagg-declares-for-2025-nba-draft