Cooper Flagg Shines as NCAA Tournament Heats Up

DURHAM, North Carolina — Duke freshman Cooper Flagg solidified his status as the top prospect in the 2025 NBA draft following an impressive run in the NCAA tournament during its first weekend.

Despite returning from an ankle injury that sidelined him for much of the ACC tournament, Flagg led Duke to victories over Mount St. Mary’s and Baylor with a remarkable combined performance. He played 51 minutes across both games, accumulating 32 points, 16 rebounds, 10 assists, and three blocks.

Flagg’s performance in marquee matchups has not only highlighted his two-way versatility but has also intensified the scrutiny of NBA scouts aiming to evaluate his potential. Jonathan Givony, a prominent draft analyst, discussed Flagg’s evolution in shot creation and playmaking. “Flagg showcased his high-level, two-way versatility and flashed his improvement as a shot creator,” Givony said. “He shouldered significant playmaking duties out of pick-and-roll, isolations, and pushing in the open floor while making passes all over the court and getting to the rim.”

Flagg remains atop ESPN’s NBA draft big board, a position he has held since the beginning of the collegiate season. Fellow top prospect Dylan Harper, a guard from Rutgers, follows closely behind him on the rankings despite Harper’s season ending with Rutgers’ failure to qualify for the NCAA tournament.

Harper, who is regarded as one of the most promising prospects in this year’s draft class, has attracted the attention of various NBA executives. “Isn’t he what everyone is looking for? An offensive orchestrator with size,” one Western Conference general manager expressed about Harper. “An oversized handler surrounded with shooting and interior defense — he’s just so dynamic. You can build a successful offense around the guy.”

With the NBA draft set for June 25, the focus remains on Flagg and Harper, who are expected to be among the top two picks as prospects continue to evaluate their performances throughout the tournament.