Exciting news from USA Basketball training camp as incoming Duke freshman Cooper Flagg impresses with his skills against some of the top players in the world.
Team USA is gearing up for the 2024 Paris Olympics by facing off against the United States Select Team in Las Vegas. Flagg’s standout performance at the scrimmage on Monday showcased why he is projected to be the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.
At just 17 years old, Flagg is the youngest player at the training camp and the first college player selected for the Select Team in over ten years.
“I was pretty surprised because it’s not a common occurrence,” Flagg shared with ESPN’s Tim Bontemps. “So, I was truly honored and thrilled to have this opportunity.”
Going up against basketball legends like LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Kevin Durant, Flagg remains focused on the game. “At first, I was a bit overwhelmed when I arrived here,” Flagg admitted to ESPN. “But once the game started, it was just basketball to me at the end of the day.”
The highlight reel of Flagg’s scrimmage against Team USA quickly spread on social media.
Cooper Flagg’s Select Team Highlights vs. Team USA
Flagg’s impressive performance during the scrimmage caught the attention of many, including several media members in attendance.
He showcased his skills by making a pull-up 3-pointer in Anthony Davis’ face, hustling back on defense, and scoring a putback and-one over Bam Adebayo to give the Select Team a late lead.
Earlier in the game, Flagg also impressed with a turnaround jumper against Jrue Holiday.
Even in a scrimmage setting, Flagg’s performance against top NBA defenders is noteworthy for a teenager who has yet to play a college game.
This outstanding display came just a day after he executed a behind-the-back pass off the dribble and a dunk following a recovery from being blocked by Davis.
Following his standout performance, one NBA head coach labeled Flagg as the best player on the Select Team, which includes other top prospects like Brandon Miller, Keegan Murray, and Jalen Suggs.
Head coach Jamahl Mosley praised Flagg for his confidence, basketball IQ, and overall talent, emphasizing that he can “flat-out play.”
Flagg’s ability to shine at such a high level early on in the training camp solidifies his status as a top American NBA prospect in recent years.