Basketball fans and NBA scouts are already looking ahead to the future of the league, with Cooper Flagg and AJ Dybantsa emerging as two of the most exciting high school prospects in recent years. Both players bring elite skills, size, and athleticism, but the real question remains: Which player fits better in today’s NBA?
Next-Gen Superstars: Will Cooper Flagg or AJ Dybantsa Dominate the NBA?
Cooper Flagg: The Do-It-All Forward
At 6-foot-9 with a versatile skill set, Flagg is the epitome of a modern two-way forward. His ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor makes him one of the most coveted prospects in recent memory.
With Cooper Flagg and AJ Dybantsa marking consecutive years where the No. 1 player in the country in high school basketball is coming from New England, Flagg was asked postgame about this new New-England-hoops-star-pipeline:
“It means a lot to me, especially for me being from… pic.twitter.com/Mr4NaPsNtl
— Tom Carroll (@yaboiTCfresh) January 19, 2025
Strengths:
- Elite Defense: Flagg is a defensive menace, capable of switching onto multiple positions while providing elite rim protection.
- High Basketball IQ: His instincts allow him to make winning plays without forcing the action.
- Improving Offense: While known for his defense, Flagg’s shooting and shot-creation are rapidly improving.
Potential Fit in the NBA:
Flagg’s two-way potential makes him a perfect fit in today’s league, where versatile, switchable wings are at a premium. Teams looking for a Jayson Tatum or Evan Mobley-type prospect will see Flagg as an ideal fit.
AJ Dybantsa: The Explosive Scorer
Standing at 6-foot-8, Dybantsa is an electric offensive talent who thrives as a three-level scorer. His quick first step, shot-creation, and finishing ability make him one of the most dynamic high school prospects in years.
Strengths:
- Elite Scoring Ability: Dybantsa can score at all three levels, with deep shooting range and an aggressive mindset.
- Athleticism & Length: His explosiveness and size allow him to finish above the rim with ease.
- High Upside as a Playmaker: Though primarily a scorer, his passing vision continues to develop.
Potential Fit in the NBA:
Dybantsa’s pure scoring makes him a natural fit in today’s NBA, where dynamic wing creators are the league’s most valuable assets. If he develops as a shot-creating wing like Anthony Edwards or Paul George, he could be a franchise player.
Who’s the Better Fit?
Both Flagg and Dybantsa have All-Star potential, but their fit in today’s NBA depends on team needs:
- Flagg fits seamlessly into any system with his defense, passing, and versatility. He’s the ultimate team-first player, able to anchor a defense while contributing offensively.
- Dybantsa has the potential to be a franchise scorer, with his upside as a dominant offensive weapon making him a natural choice for teams in need of a go-to star.
KEEP READING: ‘An Absolute Monster’ — ESPN Analyst Seth Greenberg Praises Cooper Flagg on The Pat McAfee Show
At this stage, Flagg may have the higher floor due to his defensive prowess and all-around game, but Dybantsa’s ceiling as an elite scorer is undeniable. Either way, the NBA is set to welcome two future stars.
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