How Cooper Flagg Compares to Past No. 1 NBA Draft Picks

By Edcel Panganiban June 29, 2025 14:15

Cooper Flagg, the consensus first overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft by the Dallas Mavericks, arrives in the league burdened by immense expectations, a common thread among top selections. However, the unique circumstances surrounding his path to the NBA, combined with his versatile skillset, invite a compelling comparison to past No. 1 picks and suggest he might set a new benchmark for immediate impact.

Statistical Excellence and Pre-Draft Hype

Flagg's collegiate career at Duke was nothing short of exceptional, particularly for a freshman. In his single season, he averaged 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.4 steals, and 1.4 blocks, leading the Blue Devils to the Final Four. His performance earned him numerous accolades, including the Wooden Award and Naismith Award, making him only the fourth freshman to win the Wooden Award.

This statistical output and award recognition immediately position him among the most accomplished college prospects in recent memory. He entered Duke as one of the most anticipated freshmen in years, yet still managed to exceed expectations. As Mavericks general manager Nico Harrison remarked, "It's a generational talent, a once-in-a-lifetime chance".

Physical Profile and Versatility

Standing at 6-foot-9 with a 7-foot wingspan and a weight of 221 pounds, Flagg possesses an ideal physical profile for a modern NBA forward. His versatility on both ends of the floor has drawn comparisons from NBA executives and scouts to players like Jayson Tatum, Kawhi Leonard, and Scottie Pippen. These comparisons highlight his developing offensive skills, defensive prowess, and overall versatility.

One Western Conference executive emphasized the importance of player comparisons in scouting, stating, "It builds the case to say why he's an NBA player. You can give me two guys, this player with a side of that player, even a guy from an older era. It's an easier sell when you can say this guy reminds me of that guy". Flagg's ability to seamlessly fit into multiple player archetypes underscores his high ceiling.

Early Entry and Draft Lottery Dynamics

Flagg's decision to reclassify and enter college a year early, becoming a 17-year-old freshman, set him apart even before his dominant season at Duke. This accelerated timeline showcases his advanced readiness for the professional game. The Mavericks' acquisition of the No. 1 pick with a mere 1.8% chance in the draft lottery further amplified the narrative around Flagg, positioning him as the centerpiece of a franchise seeking to rebound after trading Luka Doncic. Flagg himself acknowledged the shock of the Doncic trade, stating, "We just all started going crazy. It was such a shock. Like, it was craziness".

While securing the No. 1 pick doesn't guarantee success, Flagg's pre-draft profile suggests he is a legitimate talent with the potential to be a cornerstone player. His strong, athletic build and advanced defensive abilities already surpass those of some recent top picks. As he prepares to join a Mavericks team with a "Duke plan" that includes Kyrie Irving and Dereck Lively II, Flagg's integration into an NBA lineup with established talent could provide a smoother transition than many past No. 1 picks who often land on rebuilding teams.

Ultimately, Cooper Flagg enters the NBA with a unique blend of collegiate achievement, physical gifts, and a highly anticipated professional trajectory. His comparison to past No. 1 picks isn't just about individual statistics, but about the holistic package he brings, potentially redefining the immediate expectations for a top overall selection.