Following Team USA’s surprising exhibition loss to a team of University of Houston players, anger rained down on Cooper Flagg, the presumed 2025 NBA draft’s No. 1 pick. But ESPN analyst Jay Williams sharply replied to the critics: “Stop throwing him under the bus.”
Williams, via social media, pointed out to fans and observers alike that Flagg is still a high school senior learning the ropes, not a seasoned college athlete. The Duke commit, at 6-foot-9, was struggling, putting up only 7 points and igniting a debate about whether the hype had gotten too far.
ESPN’s Jay Williams Fires Back at Cooper Flagg’s Critics
Jay Williams Sets the Record Straight
Williams, in a passionate video, didn’t pull punches. He cited the age disparity between Flagg and his older Houston counterparts: “We’re talking about a kid who just turned 17…he’s not playing against high schoolers anymore.”
Williams directed his attention toward a sports commentary culture in which overreaction is standard, which would give Flagg time to find his bearings. “We build these kids up and tear them down in the same breath,” he said, calling for a more tempered outlook on the discussion of young talent.
A Needed Reality Check
The Houston squad consisted of mature, college-level athletes, many with NCAA tournament experience. Meanwhile, Flagg and his fellow McDonald’s All-Americans were just getting started. Williams’ remarks are a timely reminder that, in this game, development is a process—not an event—and one game does not define a career.
KEEP READING: Cooper Flagg Shakes Off Tough Loss to Houston to Accept the Jersey Mike’s Naismith Trophy the Next Morning
With the start of Duke’s season a few months away, Flagg has plenty of time to show why he is among the most hyped prospects in years. If Jay Williams’ defense is any indication, he will not be doing it alone.
Don’t miss a moment of March Madness! Download your 2025 NCAA Tournament printable bracket and stay on top of every game, matchup, and Cinderella story. Get yours now!
