Throughout the 2024-25 season, Babcock Hoops will provide comprehensive scouting reports on top 2025 NBA Draft prospects, analyzing their strengths, weaknesses, and potential at the next level. Our reports offer an in-depth look at each player's development and draft outlook.
Cooper Flagg
Position: Forward
College: Duke
Class: Freshman
Height/Weight: 6'9", 205 lbs
Birthdate: December 21, 2006
High School: Montverde Academy (FL)
Player Overview
Cooper Flagg is a high-energy forward who blends elite motor, defensive versatility, and offensive skill. Known for his relentless effort, Flagg is a three-level scorer with a knack for getting to his spots on offense. His agility and court awareness enable him to make simple but highly effective plays, and his confidence—while bold—is well-balanced and not detrimental to team success. Flagg’s defensive instincts are exceptional, as he takes pride in stopping his man, showcasing switchability across positions 1 through 5, and altering shots with his length and timing.
Flagg does, however, have room to improve in certain areas, particularly his off-ball movement and emotional discipline. His tendency to settle for jump shots rather than exploiting mismatches by driving downhill is another area for growth. Despite these minor concerns, Flagg’s potential to be a generational talent makes him the favorite for the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.
"The top prospect, Cooper Flagg, possesses elite athleticism and a versatile two-way game, making him the favorite to become the No. 1 pick." — Matt Babcock, NBA Draft Analyst
Strengths
Motor and Effort: Flagg never takes a play off, consistently impacting the game on both ends of the floor.
Defensive Versatility: His ability to switch across all five positions and disrupt shots with elite length makes him a defensive cornerstone.
Three-Level Scoring: Flagg can score from beyond the arc, mid-range, and at the rim, showing a polished offensive game.
Basketball IQ: Makes simple, effective plays that maximize team efficiency.
Length and Timing: Uses his wingspan to alter shots, close out from distance, and rebound effectively.
Concerns
Off-Ball Movement: Needs to stay more active off the ball, particularly in offensive sets.
Shot Selection: Occasionally settles for jumpers instead of driving downhill, where his strength and physicality can dominate.
Emotional Discipline: Can become frustrated after mistakes, leading to gambles or fouls on ensuing possessions.
Consistency from Deep: Flagg has shown shooting potential but needs to become a more reliable threat from beyond the arc.
Questions
Generational Potential: Can Flagg refine his offensive consistency to solidify himself as a once-in-a-decade talent?
NBA Defensive Role: What position will Flagg primarily defend at the next level, and how effective will he be against superior athletes?
Explosive Scoring Ability: Can he evolve from being a “good scorer” into a dominant, game-changing offensive force?
Bottom Line
Cooper Flagg is the favorite to be the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, thanks to his blend of motor, versatility, and skill. His defensive prowess and three-level scoring ability make him an impact player on both ends. While he needs to improve his shooting consistency, off-ball activity, and emotional composure, his floor is higher than most players’ ceilings. With continued growth, Flagg has the potential to become a generational talent in the NBA.