Flagg’s Ascent: Duke Star Eyes NBA Top Pick
The 2025 NBA Draft is shaping up, with Cooper Flagg leading the pack, ready to make waves. The Duke standout’s skills and basketball IQ have earned him high praise. This Maine native has the potential to be a game-changer.
Flagg’s Path to the Top
Cooper Flagg, who played for Duke after leaving Florida’s Monteverde Academy, is projected as the top prospect in the 2025 NBA Draft. His talents have set him up for NBA stardom. A press conference interruption from teammate Liam McNeeley highlighted his popularity.
When asked if he likes lobster, the Maine native admitted, ‘It isn’t (his) favorite’
but appreciates a good Maine lobster roll. His NBA destiny may well lead him to Dallas. The Mavericks landed the top pick with just a 1.8% chance, one of the lowest odds in the lottery era.
ESPN analyst Jay Bilas stated, “You play him anywhere you can.”
He noted Flagg’s ability to guard multiple positions. Flagg is not just a scorer, but a player that makes the right plays. By consistently making the right plays, the points, rebounds, and assists will follow.
Duke teammate Kon Knueppel noted, “He competes at the highest level.”
He also added, “At the end of the day, he’s just a great guy, too. And that can be more important than anything about being a good basketball player.”
Montverde’s Impact
Flagg and McNeeley aren’t the only Montverde products in the upcoming draft class. Also in the class are Derik Queen and Asa Newell. The camaraderie of these players is evident. Their high school coach, Kevin Boyle, has helped produce a wealth of NBA talent.
Newell said, “We call Montverde ‘The Factory’ and that’s what it is.”
The school has been instrumental in shaping many NBA players. Flagg could be the third alum to go No. 1 overall.
Other Top Prospects
Dylan Harper of Rutgers is also a top prospect, considered second to Flagg. His shot-making skills are very impressive. Bobby Marks, an ESPN analyst, believes length and athleticism are essential in the NBA.
Harper said that he and Airious “Ace” Bailey have been tight for like four or five years.
Bailey added, That’s my dog, man.”
Dylan Harper projects as the No. 2 pick to team with Victor Wembanyama in San Antonio.
International Influence
The upcoming draft may not be top-heavy in international talent. The NBA will still be seeing international players, though. France will likely have several players drafted.
Traore said, “French players are playing great right now. We have a lot of attention on us. It’s well deserved.”
Joan Beringer said, “It’s a pride. It is a dream of everybody, every basketball player on this planet. I’m just blessed to be here, to have this chance.”
Nets Draft Outlook
The Brooklyn Nets have the most first-round picks. According to a 2024 report, the Atlanta Hawks recently acquired Kristaps Porzingis.
Marks said Brooklyn’s multiple picks control the offseason. Several other teams also have multiple first-round selections.