He hasn’t even played a professional game yet, but Cooper Flagg is already at the center of controversy. With just two weeks until the 2025 NBA Draft-where the Duke Blue Devils star is widely expected to be the top pick-two former NBA greats are locked in a debate over his potential.
Flagg needed just one season in the NCAA to emerge as the draft’s premier prospect. His height, ball-handling skills, and undeniable charisma have made him the face of college basketball. But his meteoric rise has also brought skeptics.
Among his critics is former Nuggets and Lakers star Carmelo Anthony, who didn’t hold back: “To me, he [Flagg] doesn’t do anything great.” Dwight Howard’s advice to Flagg on the matter: ignore it.
Dwight Howard’s message to Flagg
If anyone understands Flagg’s situation, it’s Howard-the first overall pick in the 2004 NBA Draft. Reflecting on his own experience, the 2020 Los Angeles Lakers champion had some advice for the young phenom: “Just go hoop, enjoy the games.”
In an interview with TMZ, Howard encouraged Flagg to stay focused: “Don’t let politics take away the passion, and have fun.” However, Howard didn’t completely dismiss Anthony’s critique, adding, “Obviously, he hasn’t made it to the NBA yet.”
Still, the former Orlando Magic star expressed confidence in Flagg’s future: “If he’s already good at a lot of things now and he’s got the chance to master them as he gets older, he’ll be fine.”
Howard also reminded skeptics of Flagg’s youth: “He’s only 18, 19. He’s got a lot of time to grow.”
What’s next for Flagg in the draft?
Barring any surprises, the Dallas Mavericks will select Flagg with the No. 1 pick. With the departure of Luka Doncic to the Lakers, the franchise is looking to rebuild around the highly touted prospect.
Still, the challenge ahead is daunting. Dallas finished tenth in the Western Conference-well outside the playoff picture. Flagg’s arrival marks a new era, but turning the team around won’t be easy.