Once the NBA season reached its conclusion, the men’s basketball world focused on Team USA. However, one of the prime stories of Olympic preparation hasn’t been about the team itself. Instead, it’s about a player yet to join college, who teams are salivating for come next year’s draft.
Cooper Flagg, a high school phenom who turned Duke commit, was seen as a generational defensive prospect. 6-foot-9 with long wiry arms and a knack for defensive instincts, his profile was tremendous. But, as a member of Team B taking on the US Men’s National Basketball Team, fans were in for a neat surprise.
Cooper Flagg – Two-Way Threat?
The threat and talent on the defensive end was obvious. But, during the scrimmage against some of the best players in the world, Flagg’s offense stood out. Despite All-Defensive caliber players like Jrue Holiday and Anthony Davis guarding him, Cooper was sensational.
His offensive game was diverse, whether it was pulling up off the dribble, nifty dimes, or catch-and-shoot opportunities. While unpolished, his skillset was clear as day to see. The future Blue Devil could also utilize his size going inside. Ranging from penetrations and layups to emphatic putback dunks, Flagg gave everyone a show to remember.
NBA DRAFT NEWS & RUMORS: Cooper Flagg Updates
His performance was impressive to players and scouts alike. Names like Devin Booker and Jaime Jaquez Jr. were extremely complimentary of the youngster and his potential. For Cooper, it was a great learning experience. “The opportunity, it was great,” Flagg said. “It was a blessing to be here. I think just the physicality, and just the level of where I want to get to, there’s a lot to get better at, a lot where I need to keep improving. This showed just how big the details are.“
The Flagg sweepstakes
Victor Wembanyama was a generational prospect from France who teams were ready to tank for immediately. In Cooper Flagg, some of those teams have a second option. The Brooklyn Nets, for example, are breaking down their roster and piling up on assets to find themselves in the hunt for Flagg by the time next year’s draft rolls around.
Similarly, the Utah Jazz are in talks to trade away star players like Lauri Markkanen and Jordan Clarkson to add their names to the proverbial hat. The Atlanta Hawks could supercharge their rebuild if they can go back-to-back on number 1 picks.
So far, with 0 minutes of college experience under his belt, it is hard to predict how good Flagg can be. However, early returns are hard to turn away from. A Gatorade Player of the Year, Naismith Player of the Year, McDonald’s All-American, and USA Basketball’s Male Athlete of 2022, Cooper led Team USA to gold at the U-17 World Cup.
NBA DRAFT NEWS & RUMORS: Cooper Flagg Updates
But, even before setting fire on the international stage, he dominated at the high school level. Hailing from Montverde Academy in Florida, he was responsible for the team’s impeccable 30-0 record. This scrimmage against some of the world’s best was another feather Flagg could attach to his cap. In a year, the sweepstakes for his services roll around.
Want the latest NBA analysis, breaking news, and insider information? Click Here. Follow NBA Analysis Network on Twitter and Facebook.
Interested in reading the latest storylines and analysis in the NFL? Check out our partner NFL Analysis Network.
Most Popular
Comments / 0