The hype around Cooper Flagg has been massive for years. But how good is he really? His elite two-way game, versatility, and competitive fire suggest teams may be willing to go all in to land him in the 2025 NBA Draft.
For years, Cooper Flagg has been labeled a future No. 1 pick, and the hype surrounding him has been overwhelming.
The anticipation was so high that people declared him a can't-miss prospect before he even finished high school.
During the recent NBA Draft Combine, Duke’s do-it-all freshman phenom and projected No. 1 pick, measured 6 feet 7.75 inches (202.6 cm) barefoot and 221 pounds (100.2 kg) — nearly an inch taller and 12 pounds heavier than he was listed during his one-and-done season with the Blue Devils.
He also clocked in with a 7-foot wingspan (213.4 cm) and an 8-foot-10.5-inch standing reach (270.5 cm). In metric terms, he's now a 2.03-meter forward with elite length and improving strength — all positives for a player already expected to headline the 2025 NBA Draft.
But how good is Cooper Flagg really? Is he truly worth the hype? And why should the Dallas Mavericks, who just won the NBA Draft Lottery, pick him?
Cooper Flagg's unique blend of size and mobility
Cooper Flagg is a one-of-a-kind prospect who makes a major impact on both offense and defense. He possesses the size, mobility, and skill set that make him an ideal fit for the modern game.
Regarding Flagg's position, he plays as a forward, primarily as a small forward or power forward.
Flagg stands around 6-foot-9 with a reported 7-foot-11 wingspan, and these dimensions allow him to thrive on both ends of the floor.
While Cooper Flagg's size, though impressive, isn't extraordinary, his mobility is what truly sets him apart. Flagg's 40-inch vertical jump further enhances his defensive capabilities.
His ability to guard multiple positions, provide elite perimeter defense, and protect the rim makes him a unique defensive weapon.
Flagg's defensive instincts are exceptional, as he consistently disrupts plays with his shot-blocking and anticipation. During his first year in college, he averaged 1.4 steals and 1.4 blocks per game, which further demonstrated his defensive prowess.
Cooper Flagg's stats in his first year of college at Duke:
| GP | PPG | APG | RPG | SPG | BPG | FG | 3PT | FT |
| 37 | 19.2 | 4.2 | 7.5 | 1.4 | 1.4 | 48.1% | 38.5% | 84.0% |
Duke Star's offensive versatility
What makes Cooper Flagg even more intriguing is his combination of strength and fluidity. His frame is solid enough to hold his own against bigger forwards, yet he moves with the quickness of a wing.
He's an excellent rebounder, using his length and timing to secure boards before pushing the ball in transition.
His ball-handling ability is solid for his size, as is his court vision. This combination allows him to initiate offense and make plays for others.
Flagg also has a soft touch around the basket, a reliable floater, and a smooth shooting stroke.
While his three-point shot is still developing—hovering around 35%—it's already a legitimate part of his game. With refinement, he could become a consistent threat from deep.
Flagg's comfortable scoring at all three levels and plays with an edge, seamlessly fitting into an offensive system or taking control when necessary.
Cooper Flagg NBA comparisons: A more athletic Grant Hill, Andrej Kirilenko & Franz Wagner
Cooper Flagg's combination of size, skill, defensive ability, and competitive fire makes him one of the most complete young players entering the NBA in recent years.
Drawing comparisons to players like Grant Hill, Andrej Kirilenko, and Franz Wagner, but with superior physical tools, all-around game, and court vision, Flagg is considered a generational talent.
While there are areas to refine, such as his three-point consistency, the foundation is there for him to develop into a franchise-altering player.
The hype is justified, and barring any surprises, he's on track to hear his name called first in the 2025 NBA Draft.
