NBA Draft Lookahead: The Biggest Question Mark Surrounding Cooper Flagg
Cooper Flagg’s rise to basketball stardom has been meteoric. As a freshman at Duke University, the 6’9” forward has already cemented himself as the frontrunner for the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. With a rare combination of size, skill, and two-way versatility, Flagg has captivated scouts, fans, and analysts alike. However, despite his undeniable talent, one major question continues to loom over his draft stock: Is he truly ready for the NBA after just one college season?
Flagg’s decision to reclassify from the high school class of 2025 to 2024 fast-tracked his path to the NBA. Originally set to be a senior in high school this year, he opted to accelerate his academic and athletic journey, allowing him to suit up for Duke a year earlier than expected. While the move showcased his confidence and elite skill level, it also raised concerns about whether a single season of college basketball is sufficient preparation for the grind and complexity of the NBA.
At Duke, Flagg has proven to be an elite defender with high-level instincts, the ability to guard multiple positions, and a motor that never stops. Offensively, he can shoot from distance, create off the dribble, and pass with vision well beyond his years. Yet, transitioning from dominating high school competition—and even a strong ACC schedule—to facing grown professionals in the NBA is a leap not every phenom manages smoothly.
The physicality of the NBA is often cited as the biggest hurdle for young players, particularly those who enter the league before they’ve fully matured physically. While Flagg’s frame is solid, he still has room to develop strength, and that could become a target for opposing teams early in his pro career. Will he be able to hold his own in the paint against NBA bigs? Can he withstand the 82-game schedule and playoff intensity?
Another element to watch is how Flagg handles the offensive load at the next level. At Duke, he’s not always the primary scorer; he’s a cog in a system with other top-tier talent. In the NBA, particularly if drafted by a rebuilding franchise, he may be asked to carry a much heavier burden. How quickly can he adjust to that responsibility? Will he develop into a go-to scorer, or will his impact be more muted as a role player while he finds his footing?
Adding to the intrigue is the rise of other top prospects, like Rutgers commit Ace Bailey, who some scouts believe could challenge Flagg for the top draft spot. Bailey brings elite athleticism and offensive polish, potentially creating a genuine debate at the top of the draft board.
Cooper Flagg’s ceiling is undeniably high, and many believe he’s a generational prospect. But with so much of his game still in development and only one year of college basketball under his belt, the biggest question isn’t about his talent—it’s about how ready he’ll be, physically and mentally, to take the leap into the NBA spotlight.
