Fans have already started the countdown to dive into the 2025 NBA Draft festivities. Before it arrives, we received a fresh dose of excitement about the projected No. 1 pick, Cooper Flagg. The discussion isn’t new since people are already talking about him, but this time, Los Angeles Lakers legend LeBron James shared his glowing words for the Duke University standout. As draft night nears, James’ praise has added serious weight to Flagg’s growing hype.
LeBron James Praises Projected Top Pick Cooper Flagg Ahead of NBA Draft
With the 2025 NBA Draft set for June 25-26, James has made it clear how much he likes Flagg, the projected No. 1 pick. Speaking on the “Mind the Game” podcast with Steve Nash, LeBron praised the Duke University freshman’s mentality, work ethic, and winning instincts.
The praise isn’t entirely new information since the draft is approaching, but James shared a different perspective by connecting it to his son, Bronny James. This gives us fresh insight into Flagg’s development and character.
LeBron recalled Flagg’s performance last summer when he scrimmaged against Team USA as part of the USA Select Team. The 39-year-old also drew a personal connection to Flagg’s grassroots journey, comparing it to his own early days with the Northeast Ohio Shooting Stars.
Flagg’s freshman season at Duke University was historic. He averaged 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game while shooting 48.1% from the field and 38.5% from three-point range.
He not only led the Blue Devils to a Final Four appearance but also became only the fourth freshman in NCAA history to win the Naismith College Player of the Year award, joining Kevin Durant, Anthony Davis, and Zion Williamson.
LeBron on Cooper Flagg’s mentality based off of playing against him at Team USA training camp and watching him on the EYBL circuit:
“He’s a winner… He just makes winning plays… I just thought he played the game the right way…”
(via @mindthegamepod)
pic.twitter.com/cJuhI2LD32— MFFL NATION (@NationMffl) June 24, 2025
When Steve Nash asked about Flagg’s mentality, James responded positively about the young player’s winning attitude and ability to make crucial plays throughout his debut season at Duke.
Flagg’s Future Impact on the NBA Landscape
The Dallas Mavericks won the NBA Draft lottery with just a 1.8% chance, giving them the opportunity to select Flagg with the No. 1 overall pick. While comparisons to LeBron James’ physical dominance may be premature, Flagg brings a different skill set that could prove equally valuable.
At 6-foot-9 and 205 pounds, Flagg offers versatility on both ends of the court. His ability to handle the ball, shoot from three-point range, and defend multiple positions makes him an ideal fit for the modern NBA. The Newport, Maine, native has consistently been the best player at his age level throughout his development.
With Flagg being only 18 years old, predictions about his future potential remain speculative. However, his performance at Duke University, combined with his impressive showing against Team USA during summer scrimmages, suggests he has the foundation to become a franchise cornerstone for whichever team selects him.
