LAS VEGAS — One standout player at Monday’s Team USA scrimmage displayed exceptional ease on the court, frequently gliding to the basket and challenging future Hall of Famers with impressive dunks and stepback 3-pointers. This player, remarkably, is just 17 years old.
Cooper Flagg, fresh from high school prom and graduation, was part of a select team dedicated to providing Team USA with a solid workout. If the 2025 NBA Draft were held tomorrow, Flagg would likely be the top pick.
Flagg seized the opportunity to gain invaluable experience, while NBA scouts and coaches observed a potential future star. “He’s a special young man,” said Orlando Magic coach Jamahl Mosley, who coached the select team. Mosley praised Flagg for his talent, basketball IQ, and toughness, noting his ability to make the right play and read the game effectively.
This fall, Flagg will join Duke University as a highly-anticipated freshman, expected to stay for just one year. Standing at 6-foot-8 with a versatile skill set, he has been highly ranked since his high school days in Maine.
Flagg has previously competed against professionals and college players in summer leagues, but his stint in Las Vegas was clearly a significant step up. His father, Ralph, admitted that Cooper was initially starstruck seeing legends like LeBron James on the floor.
“At first, you walk into this gym and it’s like, wow,” Flagg said. “But then the ball goes up and it’s just basketball. I’m a competitor; that’s what it boils down to. I’m confident in my ability and skill. I know who I am and what I can do.”
He nearly led the select team to a victory in a close game, driven by the respect of his teammates who deferred to him in critical moments. His performance included a bold 3-pointer over Anthony Davis and a subsequent putback plus the foul.
“You see what he did?” Mosley remarked, highlighting Flagg’s command of the scrimmage. Olympians like Devin Booker acknowledged Flagg’s potential, noting his desire to be great.
Flagg appreciated the guidance from the NBA stars. “It was just an honor to come out here and compete,” he said. “Every one of them reached out to me and encouraged me to keep working and stay confident.”
The select team, featuring young talents like Detroit’s Jalen Duren, Brandon Miller of Charlotte, and others, was designed to challenge the Olympians and to prepare potential future Team USA members.
Houston’s Jabari Smith Jr. emphasized the value of the competition. “This allowed me to work on my game, get better, come back stronger next season,” he said.
Assuming Flagg continues to grow and adapt, he may soon join future FIBA World Cup teams. Mosley noted that Flagg was highly receptive to feedback and NBA coaching, which is crucial for his development.
Ralph Flagg confidently noted that Cooper’s experience in Las Vegas would only enhance his confidence as he heads to Duke. “He’ll go back to campus and reset and be ready for what’s next,” he said.