Knicks Legend Carmelo Anthony Offers Honest Thoughts on Cooper Flagg
Carmelo Anthony, a ten-time NBA All-Star and one of the most celebrated figures in basketball history, has weighed in with his honest thoughts on the highly touted young talent, Cooper Flagg. Flagg, a freshman standout at Duke University, has quickly become one of the most talked-about players in the world of college basketball, and Anthony’s perspective provides valuable insight into Flagg’s potential and the path ahead for the 17-year-old phenom.
A Rising Star
Cooper Flagg, a 6-foot-9 forward, has made a name for himself with his exceptional all-around skills, drawing comparisons to NBA legends even before his college career officially began. Flagg’s ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor—whether as a scorer, rebounder, or elite defender—has earned him rave reviews from scouts, coaches, and former players alike. Anthony, who has played against some of the best talents in the world, is no stranger to the spotlight and sees immense potential in Flagg.
Carmelo’s Observations
Speaking candidly about Flagg’s game, Anthony praised the young player for his poise, skill set, and maturity at such a young age. “Cooper’s already doing things that are beyond his years,” Anthony said. He highlighted Flagg’s basketball IQ and versatility, noting that the young player’s ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game would make him a standout at any level. Anthony, having spent years in the NBA, knows the importance of adapting to different roles, and he sees Flagg’s skill set as something that can easily translate to the next level.
The College Journey
As someone who spent just one year in college before entering the NBA, Anthony shared some of the lessons he’s learned throughout his career and offered some advice for Flagg. He encouraged the young forward to enjoy his time at Duke and use it as an opportunity for personal and professional growth. Anthony acknowledged the pressure that comes with being a top prospect but reminded Flagg to stay focused on developing his game, building relationships with teammates, and enjoying the college experience. “The journey is just as important as the destination,” Anthony said. “It’s about embracing the process.”
Potential and Comparisons
The comparisons between Flagg and basketball legends, including Anthony himself, have already started to surface. While many have drawn parallels between Flagg’s skills and those of past greats, Anthony remains humble, pointing out that it’s too early to make definitive judgments. “Cooper’s got a lot of talent, but the real test will come when he faces NBA-level competition consistently,” Anthony remarked. “He’s got all the tools, but it’s all about how he adapts and continues to work on his game.”
Looking Ahead
With the 2025 NBA Draft on the horizon, the basketball world is eagerly watching Flagg’s development. Anthony’s words serve as both a compliment and a cautionary note. Flagg’s immense talent is undeniable, but as with any young player, it’s important to remain grounded and continue to put in the work. The road to the NBA is long, and Anthony’s advice to Flagg is clear: stay patient, stay focused, and never stop learning.
As Flagg prepares for his debut at Duke, all eyes will be on him to see if he can live up to the hype and perhaps follow in the footsteps of legends like Carmelo Anthony in the future. For now, though, it’s clear that Anthony believes Flagg’s journey has just begun, and the best is yet to come.
