Duke’s freshman sensation Cooper Flagg has been hailed as one of the most promising prospects in college basketball, but not everyone is sold on his NBA potential just yet. A 15-year NBA veteran has made waves by claiming that Flagg isn’t even as good as a current 6-points-per-game rookie struggling in the league.
The comments sparked instant debate among basketball fans and analysts, with some questioning whether Flagg is being overhyped before proving himself on the biggest stage.
The Criticism: Is Flagg Really That Overrated?
According to the unnamed veteran, Flagg’s game, while impressive at the college level, may not immediately translate to NBA dominance.
“Look, I get the hype, but if we’re being real, he’s not even better than some of the lowest-producing rookies in the league right now. People are acting like he’s a generational player already—it’s way too soon for that.”
The statement seemed to be a direct shot at Flagg’s offensive efficiency, physicality, and ability to adjust to NBA-level competition—concerns that many young stars face when transitioning from college to the pros.
Flagg’s Response: Let the Game Speak
Though Flagg himself hasn’t directly addressed the comments, his work ethic and confidence remain unchanged. Duke’s star forward has been putting up solid numbers, showcasing his defensive versatility, rebounding, and high basketball IQ.
“People are always going to have opinions. At the end of the day, I just focus on my game and getting better every day,” Flagg previously stated when asked about criticism.
Reality Check or Unfair Expectation?
It’s important to remember that college dominance doesn’t always equal instant NBA success—but it also doesn’t mean a player can’t evolve into a superstar. Plenty of NBA legends faced skepticism early in their careers, only to prove doubters wrong.
With the NBA Draft looming, Flagg has the perfect opportunity to silence the critics and show why so many scouts believe he has the potential to be a franchise cornerstone.
One thing is certain—all eyes will be on him as he continues to navigate the pressure of high expectations.
