Duke University’s standout freshman, Cooper Flagg, is widely projected to be the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. His stellar freshman campaign—where he averaged 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists, and 1.4 blocks per game—earned him CBS Sports National Player of the Year honors and solidified his place as a top prospect.
Flagg’s season wrapped up in a tight 70-67 Final Four loss to Houston, but not before he turned in an outstanding performance with 27 points, seven rebounds, four assists, and three blocks. His skill and poise on the court have drawn comparisons to NBA stars like Jayson Tatum, Scottie Pippen, and Kawhi Leonard, underscoring his potential to make an immediate impact in the league.
The NBA Draft Lottery, set for May 12, will determine which franchise lands the coveted first pick. The Utah Jazz, Charlotte Hornets, and Washington Wizards currently hold the best odds at 14% each. However, teams with slimmer chances—such as the Dallas Mavericks—remain in the mix and are reportedly eyeing Flagg as a franchise-changing addition.
Flagg’s decision to turn pro also carries massive financial implications. According to ESPN’s Bobby Marks, delaying his NBA career could have cost him between $75 million and $125 million in future earnings, mostly by postponing eligibility for lucrative supermax deals. He is already capitalizing on his popularity through NIL endorsements, bringing in around $4.8 million from partnerships with brands like Fanatics, New Balance, and Gatorade.
As the draft nears, speculation about Flagg’s future team continues to build. Whether he lands with a top-odds team like the Wizards or an underdog like the Mavericks, his all-around game and elite upside make him a prized asset for any organization looking to rebuild or take the next step. Fans across the league now wait anxiously for the lottery to see who will win the right to draft this generational talent.