NBA Legend Paul Pierce Takes Clear Position on Cooper Flagg Decision
As the college basketball world continues to buzz about the impending future of Cooper Flagg, a player whose talent and potential have made waves since he was a high school phenom, one of the NBA’s most decorated legends has weighed in on what the young star should do next. Paul Pierce, the Hall of Fame forward and 2008 NBA Finals MVP, has made his opinion clear on the Cooper Flagg decision: he believes that Flagg should follow his instincts and enter the NBA Draft as soon as possible.
Flagg, a 6’8″ forward from Maine, has been regarded as one of the most promising basketball prospects in recent memory. His combination of size, skill, and versatility has drawn comparisons to some of the best players in the game today. After a sensational high school career, Flagg joined the Duke Blue Devils, where his freshman season has continued to showcase his immense potential. However, with the NBA Draft approaching and speculation about his future growing, the question remains: should Flagg declare for the draft, or is he better off staying in college for another season?
Pierce, a 10-time NBA All-Star and one of the greatest players of his generation, has been watching Flagg’s progression closely. Speaking on a recent podcast, Pierce voiced his belief that Flagg is ready for the professional level and should consider declaring for the draft after one season at Duke. “Look, I get it—college basketball is great, and you can develop a lot as a player,” Pierce said. “But when you’re as gifted as Cooper Flagg, the best thing you can do for your future is to get to the NBA as soon as possible. You can’t let the opportunity slip away. He’s ready.”
Pierce went on to elaborate on his view, citing the evolution of modern basketball and the high demand for versatile players like Flagg in the NBA. With his ability to guard multiple positions, his scoring touch, and his basketball IQ, Flagg has all the tools to thrive in the pros. Pierce emphasized that players no longer need to stay in college for multiple years to be prepared for the next level, especially when their skill sets are as developed as Flagg’s. “The NBA game is changing,” Pierce added. “You don’t have to be a finished product to come in and make an impact. He can contribute right away.”
One of the key points Pierce highlighted was the financial security that comes with entering the NBA Draft, particularly for a player like Flagg who is projected to be a high lottery pick. Pierce argued that taking the leap into the professional ranks can offer a player not just a chance to grow on the court, but also an opportunity to secure long-term financial stability for themselves and their family.
Of course, there are still some who believe that Flagg should stay at Duke for another year to further refine his game and increase his stock. Coach Jon Scheyer and other Duke staff members have publicly supported the idea of Flagg continuing his development at the college level, particularly as he’s likely to be the centerpiece of a team with national title aspirations. But for Pierce, the decision is clear: “It’s time for Cooper Flagg to bet on himself and take the next step.”
As the NBA Draft approaches, all eyes will be on Cooper Flagg as he weighs his options. With advice from one of the greatest players in NBA history, Flagg will likely consider every angle carefully. But with the future of a potential NBA star on the line, it’s clear that Pierce’s words will hold significant weight in the decision-making process. Will Flagg take the leap into the pros, or will he stay in college for another season? The basketball world eagerly awaits his next move.
