Cooper Flagg Impresses Against NBA Stars in U.S. Men’s Olympic Team Scrimmages
LAS VEGAS — Cooper Flagg made a significant impact during the U.S. Men’s Olympic team scrimmages, proving he belongs on the court with NBA’s elite. On Day 1, Flagg held his own, but it was on Day 2 that he truly shined, showing why next season might see a tankathon among NBA’s lower-tier teams vying for the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.
Flagg, listed at 6-foot-8 and slightly over 200 pounds, showcased his talent during the final 10 minutes of the scrimmage. He nailed a three-pointer over Lakers star Anthony Davis, disrupted a long pass, and executed a tip-in foul on Miami’s Bam Adebayo. This performance offered a glimpse of what Duke will benefit from this fall and what the NBA can expect in the future. The scrimmage ended with the Olympic team narrowly winning by one point, but the buzz was all about Flagg’s performance.
Though Olympic coach Steve Kerr couldn’t specifically comment on Flagg due to draft regulations, he praised the Select Team’s overall performance. Concerns about Flagg’s ability to handle the game’s physicality were quickly dispelled.
“I’m confident in my ability and my skill,” Flagg said. “I’m confident in who I am and what I can do.”
At just 17, Flagg wasn’t expected to dominate, and while he may not have been the best player on the court—considering all 12 Olympic team members are potential Hall of Famers—his potential was undeniable. With a Duke pedigree and the promise of becoming the next American-born star, Flagg is poised for a bright future.
Flagg expressed gratitude for the opportunity, acknowledging the surreal experience of sharing the court with such elite players. “It’s some pressure—but a surreal feeling to be able to share the court. I’m blessed to have this opportunity,” he said.
The Select Team proved a worthy challenge for the Olympic squad, who will face Canada in an exhibition game on Wednesday in Las Vegas. Despite the short preparation time, Flagg is confident in Team USA’s dominance. “They have no weaknesses, no holes. They can play any type of way and dominate,” he said.
Flagg’s performance against NBA stars boosts his confidence as he heads to Duke and looks toward a future in the NBA, potentially even joining the Olympic pipeline.
“It just adds confidence, continuing to get better and proving stuff,” Flagg said. “Just seeing the success and going for what I know. I know I can do it, it just adds confidence.”
With such an impressive showing, Cooper Flagg has firmly planted himself among the game’s elite, setting the stage for an exciting future in basketball.
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