At just 18 years old, Cooper Flagg, the Duke freshman power forward, has already drawn comparisons to elite players like Zion Williamson and Jayson Tatum. He turned into the biggest bet for NBA teams looking to build a championship contender.

Flagg stands out as one of the most complete prospects in recent memory. Standing around 6-foot-9 with a strong, agile frame, he combines elite defensive instincts with a versatile offensive game.

Scouts praise his ability to guard multiple positions, his rebounding prowess, and his smooth mobility on both ends of the floor. Offensively, Flagg can score from all three levels—inside, midrange, and beyond the arc—though his three-point shooting is still developing consistency.

His basketball IQ and court awareness set him apart, allowing him to make plays and fit seamlessly into different offensive systems. Flagg’s intensity and competitive edge show up on every possession, making him a player who can both lead and complement a team’s core.

The Draft’s Most Coveted Prize

Since arriving at Duke, Flagg has dominated statistically, leading the Blue Devils in all five major categories. His freshman season has drawn widespread acclaim, with many projecting him as a one-and-done player destined to be the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 Draft.

Early in the cycle, there was debate about whether Duke teammate Dylan Harper might challenge Flagg’s top spot, but Flagg’s emergence as a true offensive threat alongside his defensive prowess has largely settled that discussion.

Cooper Flagg's Freshman Season at Duke

Cooper Flagg has put together an outstanding freshman season at Duke, averaging 19.6 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game while playing nearly 31 minutes each contest. He also contributes significantly on defense, averaging 1.6 steals and 1.2 blocks per game, showcasing his versatility as a two-way player.

Flagg shoots efficiently with a field goal percentage around 48% and has developed a reliable three-point shot at roughly 38%. His ability to fill the stat sheet across scoring, rebounding, playmaking, and defense has made him the clear leader for Duke and a consensus top prospect for the 2025 NBA Draft.

Flagg’s potential impact is so significant that sportsbooks and analysts alike have pegged him as the biggest bet of the draft. Betting odds show the Washington Wizards, Charlotte Hornets, and Utah Jazz as the frontrunners to land him, each with +500 odds, while other lottery teams like the New Orleans Pelicans and Philadelphia 76ers are also in the mix.

As the 2025 NBA Draft approaches, all eyes will be on Cooper Flagg. For teams willing to take the biggest bet of the draft, Flagg offers the tantalizing promise of a transformative talent ready to make an immediate impact at the highest level.