Dream Fits: Mavericks, Wizards, Jazz

Overall Grade: 76.07

Projected Position: SF/PF

Strengths:

• Utilizes jab step well to create space

• Good vision from top of the key

• Good contact balance & hangtime

• Protects ball well on drives and gather

• As roll man does a good job moving into open space

• Good instincts on switches

• Finishes well through contact

• Good recognition, rotating to post when roll man is open

• Closes out quickly

• Tracks ball well in air

• Changes speed quickly

• Quick first step

• Recognizes doubles quickly & passes out

• Moves well with defenders laterally disruptung them with bumps & pokes at ball

• Keeps defender on back hip while driving using arm

• Soft touch on the block

• Navigates traffic well on drives

• Great timing on blocks

• Creates space in post well with pivots

• When pressing up on perimeter contests 3's well while not fouling

• Very controlled on drives

• Follows his shot well with putbacks on layups

Weaknesses:

• Can attack defenders and be overly physical instead of using finesse often missing by a wide margin

• Can force shots without space

• Turns body on shots unnecessarily

• Doesn't commit to defending three point shot, sagging off to defend drive

• Reliant on spin move in high post

• Looses balance at times - weak base

• Needs to be more efficient on mid range shot considering his volume

• Beat on drives by quicker guards

• Can overcommit to helping on driving player leaving open man on perimeter

• Bad closeout angles recovering after screens

Scouting Report: Cooper Flagg

Position: Forward
Height/Weight: 6'9", 205 lbs
School: Montverde Academy (High School Class of 2024)
Draft Projection: Top 2 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft

Overview:
Cooper Flagg is widely regarded as one of the most promising young basketball talents, with a skill set that makes him a potential generational player. Known for his versatility, Flagg excels on both ends of the court, combining elite defensive instincts with a polished offensive game. His ability to impact the game in multiple ways makes him a standout prospect.

Strengths:

• Defensive Versatility: Flagg is an exceptional defender, capable of guarding multiple positions. His length, timing, and instincts make him a dominant shot-blocker and disruptor.

• Three-Level Scoring: He can score efficiently from beyond the arc, mid-range, and at the rim. His offensive arsenal includes smooth jumpers, strong finishes, and advanced footwork.

• Basketball IQ: Flagg demonstrates a deep understanding of the game, making smart plays and reading situations effectively.

• Rebounding and Transition Play: He is a strong rebounder who can push the ball in transition, showcasing solid ball-handling and playmaking skills.

• Intensity and Leadership: Flagg plays with a competitive edge and is known for his high motor and leadership qualities.

Areas for Improvement:

• Consistency from Deep: While he has shown shooting potential, improving his three-point consistency will elevate his offensive impact.

• Shot Selection: At times, he settles for jumpers instead of exploiting mismatches by driving to the basket.

• Off-Ball Movement: Staying active off the ball will enhance his offensive versatility.

Player Comparisons:

• Andrei Kirilenko

• Scottie Pippen

• Jayson Tatum

Summary:
Cooper Flagg is a dynamic forward with the potential to be a cornerstone player at the next level. His combination of size, skill, and basketball IQ positions him as a top prospect for the 2025 NBA Draft. With continued development, he could become a dominant force in the NBA.

Draft Range: 1

Projected NBA rookie role: Aggresive Forward with 2-Way abilities

Projected NBA position: Forward

Projected Rookie Statline (Pts, Reb, Ast, Blk/Stl): 15, 7, 4.5, 1.5 (Blk)

Strengths: Great At finishing through contact, Aggresive at the rim, Confident (yet somewhat ugly) middy, Great switchable defender, Natural defensive instincts.

Weakness: Can have tunnell vision offensively.

Shades of/comp: Slimmer Paolo Banchero, Jalen Johnson, Andrei Kirilenko

Best outcome: Top player in NBA, Physical traits translate, consistent jumper.

mid outcome: Perennial All-Star, questionable jumper

worst outcome: Jumper never developes, not as physically dominant as advertised, becomes a solid player that still has 2-Way capabilities.

Name: Cooper Flagg

My ranking; 1B

Projected Draft Range: 1st - 2nd pick

Projected NBA Role: Versatile two-way forward with elite defensive instincts and developing offensive creation

Projected NBA Position: Forward (Small Forward/Power Forward)

Projected Rookie Statline: 15 PPG | 7 RPG | 3 APG | 1.5 BPG | 1 SPG (Efficient inside scoring; developing perimeter shot)

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Strengths: • Defensive Prowess: Exceptional shot-blocking and on-ball defense for a wing player. • Basketball IQ: High-level understanding of the game; makes smart decisions on both ends. • Versatility: Effective in multiple offensive roles—posting up, cutting, and transition play.  • Rebounding: Strong rebounder for his position, often initiating fast breaks. • Work Ethic: Demonstrates a relentless motor and commitment to improvement.

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Weaknesses: • Perimeter Shooting: While improving, his three-point shot lacks consistency. • Shot Creation: Needs to enhance ability to create his own shot against elite defenders. • Ball Handling: Could tighten his handle to become a more effective creator. Some concerns on if he can be an elite shot creator with his current handle.

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Shades of / Comparison: • Shane Battier’s defense with Jayson Tatum’s offensive potential.

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Games Watched:

1.    vs. Houston Cougars (April 5, 2025)  
2.    vs. Alabama Crimson Tide (March 29, 2025)  
3.    vs. Arizona Wildcats (March 27, 2025): 
    4.     vs. Auburn Tigers (December 4th, 2024)
    5.      vs. Kentucky Wildcats (November 12th, 2024)

Cooper Flagg is a generational talent from whatever side you look at. He's got everything you want in a player. He's the best player in this draft class and looks like a very good player in the future. Some abilities he will have to work on if he wants to remain at the top. However he was amazing at the US select team which has made us believe in him more to become the star we all think he'll be

Even though he does have some last minute turnovers with Duke, that will only matter in tight games. And depending on what team he goes to, could effect the whole draft.

Rating: A

Current Ranking: 1

Consensus #1 pick who plays with tenacity and toughness which will translate well to the NBA. Great defender, athletic, can score well around the rim, strong, rebounds well. His shooting needs to improve but he is getting better every day. It will be interesting to see how he stacks up against other bigger, longer centers and forwards. Throughout the season, Flagg has shown that he can defend all 5 positions and is a surefire all-defense pick for years to come. His rebounding is elite and his midrange is pure. Literally my only complaint is that his ballhandling isn't great yet.

NBA Comps: Kevin Garnett