Cooper Flagg Headlines 2025 NBA Draft Early-Entry List: A Deep Dive into the Top Prospect
The 2025 NBA Draft is shaping up to be a landmark event, with 106 players declaring for early entry. Among them stands Cooper Flagg, a 6-foot-9 forward from Duke University, who is widely regarded as the top prospect in this class. His decision to enter the draft has sent ripples through the basketball community, prompting discussions about his potential impact at the professional level.
Cooper Flagg: A Phenomenal Freshman Season
Cooper Flagg’s journey to the NBA has been nothing short of extraordinary. After reclassifying from the 2025 recruiting class to join Duke’s 2024 roster, Flagg made an immediate impact. In his freshman season, he led the Blue Devils to a 35–4 record, capturing both the ACC title and a Final Four appearance. Statistically, Flagg averaged 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game, showcasing his all-around game and versatility. His performance earned him the prestigious Wooden Award, making him only the fourth freshman in history to receive this honor .
Flagg’s skill set is impressive; he can stretch the floor with his shooting, protect the rim with his shot-blocking, and facilitate offense with his passing. His ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor makes him a coveted prospect for NBA teams.
The 2025 NBA Draft Landscape
The 2025 NBA Draft is set to take place on June 25–26 at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. With 106 players declaring for early entry, the competition is fierce. However, Flagg’s exceptional freshman season has solidified his status as the consensus No. 1 overall pick. Teams such as the Utah Jazz, Washington Wizards, and Charlotte Hornets, each with a 14% chance of landing the top pick, are now focusing their attention on Flagg .
Comparisons to NBA Legends
Flagg’s playing style has drawn comparisons to several NBA legends. His versatility and ability to impact the game in multiple facets are reminiscent of players like Kevin Durant and Anthony Davis. Scouts have noted his potential to be a “generational talent,” capable of transforming a franchise.
The Decision to Enter the Draft
On April 21, Flagg announced his decision to leave Duke and enter the NBA Draft. In an Instagram video, he expressed gratitude for his time at Duke, calling it an “incredible year,” and acknowledged the support from fans, teammates, and the Duke basketball community . While he briefly considered returning to college, Flagg ultimately chose to pursue his professional aspirations.
What Lies Ahead for Cooper Flagg
As the NBA Draft approaches, all eyes will be on Cooper Flagg. His decision to enter the draft marks the beginning of what many anticipate to be a stellar professional career. With his unique skill set and potential to impact the game at the highest level, Flagg is poised to make a significant mark in the NBA.
