Cooper Flagg Looks Like a Future NBA Superstar, But He May Choose to Stay in College
In the ever-evolving world of college basketball, where top recruits often turn pro after one season or even sooner, Cooper Flagg has become a name that has turned heads in the sports world. The highly touted prospect is one of the most promising basketball players to emerge from the high school ranks in recent years. With his impressive skill set, work ethic, and basketball IQ, Flagg is widely considered to be one of the top players in his class and a potential future NBA superstar.
However, in an era where most of the top young talents seem destined for the professional stage, Flagg has raised eyebrows by not committing to the conventional one-and-done path. Instead, there is growing speculation that he may choose to stay in college for more than just one year, a decision that could change the course of his career and the landscape of college basketball. This article will explore the reasons why Cooper Flagg could be an NBA-bound player, the factors that might lead him to stay in college longer, and what this means for both his future and the college basketball world.
Who is Cooper Flagg?
Cooper Flagg, a 6’8″ forward from Maine, has been making waves in the basketball world since his early years in high school. Known for his versatility, work ethic, and unmatched competitive drive, Flagg has been compared to some of the best players in the world, including NBA stars. His unique combination of skills, particularly his ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor, has made him a standout in the 2025 recruiting class.
Flagg’s game is built on an unrelenting motor and an innate understanding of basketball. He has elite shot-blocking ability, can guard multiple positions, and has shown he can be an offensive weapon as well. His shot-making ability, basketball IQ, and leadership skills make him a potential star both at the college level and in the NBA. Additionally, Flagg’s rebounding ability and court vision have drawn comparisons to some of the best all-around forwards in basketball, past and present.
Having received countless accolades and offers from top-tier programs, Flagg has emerged as one of the most highly sought-after high school players in the country. With an incredible work ethic, a relentless drive to improve, and a natural ability to lead his teams, it’s no surprise that he’s seen as a future NBA star.
The NBA Superstar Potential
When it comes to Flagg’s potential in the NBA, his talent is undeniable. At just 16 years old, Flagg’s game already boasts traits that would make him a standout in professional basketball. He’s highly athletic, with a unique blend of size, speed, and strength. These attributes allow him to excel both on offense and defense, giving him the potential to be a two-way player in the NBA — a rarity in a league where players often specialize in one area.
Versatility on the Court
One of Flagg’s most significant strengths is his versatility. He’s capable of playing multiple positions, whether as a forward, a wing, or even as a point forward in certain offensive sets. His ability to guard different positions is one of the reasons he’s been compared to players like Giannis Antetokounmpo or Kevin Durant, whose combinations of size and skill make them dynamic forces on both sides of the ball. Flagg’s defensive ability stands out, particularly his shot-blocking, which is rare for a player with his size and skill set. His instincts on the defensive end and his ability to read the game make him an excellent player to guard opposing stars, a quality that is especially valued in the NBA.
On offense, Flagg is also highly skilled. He has a reliable jump shot, particularly from beyond the arc, and a polished mid-range game that complements his ability to finish around the rim. His ball-handling and playmaking ability have drawn praise as well, making him a constant threat in transition and as a creator in half-court sets. His combination of skills allows him to fit in a variety of offensive systems, making him an intriguing prospect for NBA teams looking for versatility and two-way potential.
Leadership and Mental Toughness
Flagg is not just a standout talent — he’s also a leader. Whether playing for his high school team or competing with USA Basketball, Flagg has shown he has the mental toughness and leadership qualities that NBA teams covet. His ability to rise to the occasion in high-pressure situations and help guide his team to victory is one of the factors that have led many to believe he will thrive in the professional ranks.
His leadership is not just seen in his vocal presence on the court but also in his work ethic and commitment to continuous improvement. Flagg has earned a reputation as a relentless worker, constantly honing his skills and striving to get better each day. This drive and passion for the game will be a crucial part of his future success in the NBA.
The Case for Staying in College
Despite being widely regarded as a future NBA lottery pick, Cooper Flagg has hinted that he might choose to stay in college basketball for more than just one year. In an age when the one-and-done system has become the norm for top prospects, Flagg’s potential decision to stay in college for an extended period would be a unique and significant choice.
Development of Skills
While Flagg has the raw talent to make an immediate impact in the NBA, staying in college would allow him the opportunity to further develop his game, particularly his offensive skills. Although he is an excellent defender and versatile player, Flagg could still benefit from more time to fine-tune his jump shot, ball-handling, and decision-making under the pressures of college competition. Playing in a high-level college program would provide him with daily coaching from top-tier staffs and the opportunity to compete against elite competition, which would help him become a more polished player heading into the NBA.
Staying in college for a longer period could also allow Flagg to refine his leadership skills and better understand how to be the focal point of a team. In the NBA, he will likely face pressure as a top pick and a franchise cornerstone, so learning to handle that responsibility in a college environment — where the pressure is high but not as overwhelming as the NBA — could be invaluable.
Educational Opportunity and Personal Growth
Another factor that may influence Flagg’s decision to stay in college is the opportunity for personal growth and education. Many players who enter the NBA at a young age miss out on the college experience and the chance to mature both on and off the court. Flagg could benefit from the structure and resources that college offers, including academic programs, mentorship, and social development. The chance to grow as an individual, learn about life beyond basketball, and gain valuable life experiences is something that would be difficult to replicate in the professional world.
Furthermore, by playing in college, Flagg would have the opportunity to hone his basketball IQ and become a more complete player. College basketball offers the chance to experience different coaching styles and systems, which could benefit Flagg in the long term as he transitions into the NBA.
The NIL Opportunity
In today’s world of college athletics, Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals have opened new doors for college athletes. Flagg, being one of the top recruits in the country, would likely be able to secure lucrative NIL deals while in college, helping him build his personal brand before entering the NBA. These opportunities would allow him to benefit financially from his name recognition while still in school, which was not possible for past generations of players.
The Potential Drawbacks of Staying in College
While staying in college could provide a number of benefits, it also comes with risks. First and foremost, there’s the risk of injury. Injuries can derail a young player’s career, and for someone with the potential that Flagg has, staying in college could expose him to the possibility of a career-altering injury that would prevent him from reaching his full potential.
Additionally, staying in college means delaying entry into the NBA, which may seem counterproductive for a player with as much upside as Flagg. In the current landscape, players who perform well in college often feel the pressure to enter the NBA as soon as possible to maximize their earning potential and secure their financial future. For a player of Flagg’s caliber, waiting longer could result in missed opportunities.
What It Means for College Basketball
If Cooper Flagg chooses to stay in college for a longer period, it would represent a shift in the current trend of players jumping to the NBA as soon as they are able. His decision could inspire other top recruits to consider the long-term development and personal growth that college basketball can offer, rather than rushing to the NBA.
For college basketball, a player like Flagg staying for multiple years would be a massive boon. It would give programs a chance to build their teams around a generational talent, and fans would benefit from being able to watch such a highly touted prospect for several seasons. His presence in college basketball would elevate the game and potentially draw more attention to the sport.
Cooper Flagg’s Future Is Bright
Cooper Flagg’s future is incredibly bright, whether he decides to enter the NBA draft or stay in college for a few more years. His talent, work ethic, and leadership qualities suggest that he will eventually become a star in the professional ranks. However, by opting to stay in college, Flagg could further refine his skills, mature as a player, and capitalize on the opportunities that the college system offers, both on and off the court.
While the temptation of NBA riches and the allure of playing against the best in the world is strong, Flagg’s potential decision to stay in college could redefine the path for future prospects. Regardless of which path he chooses, Cooper Flagg’s basketball journey is one to watch, and his impact on the game will be felt for years to come.