Cooper Flagg has quickly created impressive momentum in his basketball career. His outstanding play has generated massive public interest, drawing parallels between him and distinguished NBA players and inviting examination of his future performance in professional basketball.
Matt Barnes Compares Cooper Flagg to NBA Stars, Highlights His Unique Path to Pro Greatness
During an “All The Smoke” podcast, former NBA champion Matt Barnes evaluated Flagg’s current performance and expressed thoughts about his professional basketball career potential. Barnes focused on assessing how Flagg has transformed basketball while also discussing his NBA fitness.
He mentioned the significance of having an American-born white player emerge as a top talent in the NBA, noting that it has been nearly 50 years since such a player was drafted first overall.
Barnes questioned Flagg’s future approach because he acknowledged athletes need the freedom to create beneficial impacts on the game.
He described Flagg as a hybrid of two All-Stars, Jason Tatum and Shawn Marion. That is to say, he has the skill set of Jason Tatum and the quick second jumps like Shawn Marian. He also possesses energy and passion that are unmatched. While he makes mistakes, which are sometimes inevitable, he views them as an opportunity to develop and understand what it takes to grow.
He is endowed with athleticism and is not afraid of the moment. He is an expert in dunks, plays defense and mid-range, and scores effortlessly.
Recent matches by Flagg have reinforced his established status in the basketball world. The Duke Basketball team advanced to the Elite Eight when Flagg starred during the Sweet 16. He got six rebounds, seven assists, and three blocks against Arizona.
Flagg continues to direct his efforts toward a national championship for Duke despite rising expectations about his NBA prospects. Professional endorsement from the likes of Matt Barnes signals that Flagg faces a transformative and hopeful future on the basketball court.
Flagg’s Versatility, Stats, and Skill Set Highlight NBA-Ready Potential
Flagg’s ability to play several positions is one of the most notable aspects of his basketball skills. His 6-foot-9 height and 7-foot-11 wingspan create a substantial defensive and offensive presence on the basketball court.
His defensive strengths emerge from his position flexibility and his strong performance in blocking shots and protecting the perimeter.
Flagg shows strong offensive abilities through his comfortable ball management skills, precise passing abilities, and accurate shooting fundamentals. As of February 25, 2025, Flagg averages 19.5 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 4.0 assists.
KEEP READING: Cooper Flagg Earns AP Player of the Year, Joining the Ranks of Kevin Durant, Anthony Davis, Other NBA Elites
He also demonstrates shooting splits of 48.6% from the field, 37.3% from beyond the arc, and 81.8% from the free-throw line.
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