Cooper Flagg Shines as NBA Draft Hype Grows in Final Four Madness

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. — Cooper Flagg has solidified his status as a top NBA draft prospect following a standout performance in the NCAA tournament, leading his Duke team into the Final Four. Flagg’s exceptional skills on the court have captured the attention of scouts eager to assess future lottery picks.

With two games remaining before the national championship, Flagg showcased his versatility and scoring ability by scoring 30 points, alongside seven assists and three blocks against Arizona. His remarkable game solidified his reputation, illustrating his value as a playmaker for his teammates and a formidable scoring threat.

“He has exceeded the intense preseason hype with his off-the-dribble shotmaking and three-point shooting, averaging 37.4% from beyond the arc,” said Jonathan Wasserman, Bleacher Report‘s NBA Draft analyst. Flagg will face Houston in the upcoming Final Four matchup, a team known for its strong defensive strategy.

Meanwhile, Florida‘s recent run has unveiled other intriguing prospects. Players such as Johni Broome and Tahaad Pettiford are quickly rising on NBA radars following impressive tournament performances. Broome has emerged as a potential first-round pick due to his aggressive play in the post, while Pettiford has gained attention for his scoring ability.

Russell Broome, key for Auburn’s success, has drawn comparisons to past NBA players with his intense play style and size. His ability to operate effectively on the court has made him a valuable asset for scouts examining potential draft picks.

Dylan Harper of Rutgers continued to demonstrate why he is regarded as the consensus No. 1 guard prospect. In his last game, he scored 27 points against USC, further solidifying his status as a leading contender in the upcoming draft. His offensive abilities and floor presence have impressed teams, including the Wizards and Jazz.

A notable mention is Ace Bailey from USC, whose season ended prematurely but not without leaving a mark. Averaging 17.6 points and 7.2 rebounds, Bailey remains a name to watch due to his size and perimeter scoring skills, despite some inconsistencies during the season.

As teams prepare for the NBA Draft process, many players have utilized the tournament to showcase their talents. VJ Edgecombe, known for his explosive plays and defensive activity, and Jeremiah Fears, whose playmaking abilities have dazzled scouts, are both making critical impacts.

Overall, this year’s NCAA tournament has not only intensified excitement for the Final Four but has also established a clearer picture of the 2025 NBA Draft landscape. With players like Flagg leading the charge, the anticipation grows as the season concludes.