Duke freshman Cooper Flagg remains the focal point of discussions about the 2025 NBA Draft, with ESPN analysts widely projecting him as the No. 1 overall pick. However, Duke head coach Jon Scheyer has provided a more nuanced perspective, emphasizing a “genius” trait in Flagg’s game that could subtly reshape expectations.
Flagg has propelled the Blue Devils to their best roster since Zion Williamson’s era, leading them to the Final Four, where they will face Houston’s elite defense. Regarded as the nation’s top freshman—and possibly the best player—Flagg has met every expectation since his senior year of high school.
Jon Scheyer’s Take on Cooper Flagg’s Draft Position Challenges ESPN’s Opinion
Flagg has been widely regarded as the top prospect for the 2025 NBA Draft, with ESPN analysts consistently projecting him as the likely No. 1 overall pick. His dominance throughout the season has only solidified that stance.
However, Scheyer has offered a deeper perspective on Flagg’s game, subtly reshaping expectations by emphasizing the unique qualities that set him apart.
During an appearance on ESPN’s SportsCenter, Scheyer reflected on Flagg’s growth and the adjustments made throughout the season.
“For me, I mean, I think he’s always looked like the number one pick in the draft, even early in the year,” Scheyer said.
“I think he’s always looked like the number one pick in the draft.”
Duke head coach Jon Scheyer talks about unlocking Cooper Flagg’s potential this season
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— ESPN (@espn) April 3, 2025
While Flagg’s talent was evident from the start, the Duke coach acknowledged the learning curve.
“I don’t know if I prepared him well enough early in the season for some of the moments he’d be in,” Scheyer said.
Despite any early-season challenges, Flagg’s ability to impact games in multiple ways has defined his freshman campaign.
“Part of his genius is the fact that he can win a game with scoring, rebounding, steals, blocks, you name it,” Scheyer continued. “Whatever that game requires, he finds a way to come up with those plays to help us win.”
Over four tournament games, Flagg has averaged 19.5 points, 7.8 rebounds, 5.3 assists, and 1.8 blocks, leading the Blue Devils to their first Final Four since 2015.
While Flagg’s status as the No. 1 pick appears all but certain, he has acknowledged the emotional weight of leaving college basketball behind. Speaking with The Athletic last month, he admitted,
“I still feel like a kid,” Flagg said.
KEEP READING: Cooper Flagg’s Journey Through USA Basketball: How He Became a Global Name
However, he also recognized the fulfillment of a lifelong dream.
“I always wanted to play in college at the highest level and compete for a national championship,” Flagg said. That sort of thing is what I dreamed about.”
Now, with Duke set to face Houston in the Final Four, Flagg has an opportunity to bring that dream to reality. His impact on the program has been undeniable, leading the Blue Devils in scoring (18.9 points per game), rebounds (7.5), assists (4.2), and steals (1.4) during the season.
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