Cooper Flagg has become the most talked-about name in college basketball. The Duke standout has been a dominant force all season, leading his team with consistent brilliance and emerging as the projected top pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. After the recent play-in tournament, several insiders—along with outlets like Sports Illustrated—have pointed to the Utah Jazz as favorites to select him.
In a major development that shook up draft discussions and March Madness buzz, Flagg announced via a viral Instagram video that he will officially enter the 2025 NBA Draft. This confirmation put to rest any speculation about his draft eligibility and instantly reshaped mock drafts around him.
Following the announcement, ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith praised Flagg on First Take, acknowledging his incredible talent. However, Smith also brought up a lingering concern from the Final Four matchup against Houston. He highlighted that in four key moments throughout his career, Flagg had chances to close games and fell short—moments that might raise questions about his clutch factor. Still, Smith noted that even elite players miss game-winning shots, and such outcomes are part of the game.
The most recent and notable example was in the Final Four, where Duke was clinging to a one-point lead in the final seconds. Flagg was called for an over-the-back foul while trying to rebound against Houston’s J’Wan Roberts. Roberts hit both free throws to give Houston a 68–67 lead. On Duke’s next possession, Flagg had the opportunity to win it. He created space and took a mid-range jumper, but the shot hit the front rim. Houston grabbed the rebound, sank two more free throws, and closed out the game 70–67, ending Duke’s run.
Despite this late-game disappointment, Flagg’s freshman season was nothing short of stellar—averaging 19.2 points and 7.5 rebounds per game, while also collecting prestigious honors like the Wooden and Naismith Awards. Now, the focus shifts to how NBA scouts and front offices will evaluate him: will his missed opportunities in crunch time overshadow his all-around dominance, or will teams bank on his potential to grow into a true NBA superstar?
Fans and analysts are split. Some believe the late-game struggles may impact his draft position, while others see his overall skillset as too valuable to pass up. One thing is clear—Cooper Flagg remains the central figure in this year’s draft conversation.