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Renowned college basketball coach Jim Boeheim has showered praise on Duke University standout Cooper Flagg, drawing remarkable comparisons to NBA legend Larry Bird.
During a recent discussion on OutKick’s program ‘Don’t @ Me with Dan Dakich,’ Boeheim assessed Flagg’s talent in relation to some of basketball’s greatest players.
“I think he is almost – to me, he’s [Larry] Bird-like, a little bit. Except he is quicker, faster, more athletic, doesn’t shoot it as well, but his shot’s coming,” Boeheim stated.
With an impressive record of 27 games played this season, Flagg averages 19.5 points, nearly eight rebounds, and four assists per game. This 18-year-old from Maine acts as the critical driving force for the currently second-ranked Duke team, boasting a 24-3 overall record.
Boeheim has no doubt that Flagg is the top player in the college basketball landscape. He expressed disbelief at anyone who might argue otherwise.
“People that say other people are better than him just don’t know anything about basketball. It’s just crazy. I mean they’ve got to be – I don’t know what they’re watching. Maybe they are just trying to be contrarian or something, I don’t know,” Boeheim added.
Boeheim emphasized Flagg’s strength as an all-around player, underscoring his unique skill set. “Cooper Flagg, he’s the best all-around player in terms of doing all the things in college basketball that I’ve seen. There’s better shooters, better rebounders, better passers, but he’s a defender,” Boeheim elaborated.
Additionally, Boeheim highlighted Flagg’s competitive spirit, which sets him apart on the court.
“I’ve talked to [former Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski] about this. He’s got an edge to him. He’s not backing down from nobody, and in a good way,” said Boeheim.
Over his extensive coaching career, Boeheim has observed many exceptional players, including Carmelo Anthony, who notably led Syracuse University to a National Championship in 2003.
Having served as head coach at Syracuse for 47 years, Boeheim compiled an impressive career record of 1,015 wins to 441 losses. His legacy includes five Final Four appearances and ten Big East regular-season titles, alongside five Big East tournament championships.
If Boeheim’s assessment proves accurate, and Flagg enjoys a career trajectory similar to that of Larry Bird, any NBA team fortunate enough to draft him will undoubtedly celebrate the decision.
Bird, a Basketball Hall of Fame inductee, won three MVP awards and three NFL championships while appearing in 12 All-Star games.
The anticipation surrounding Flagg’s future in basketball is palpable, with many analysts projecting him as a top talent in upcoming drafts. His combination of skill, determination, and sharp instincts output an impressive resume that continues to catch the attention of scouts and fans alike.
As the season progresses, Flagg’s contributions on the court will remain a focal point in basketball discussions. His ability to impact games and foster team success positions him as one of the most promising athletes in college basketball today. As the tournament season approaches, all eyes will be on Flagg and his performance as he looks to steer Duke toward national prominence.
Given Boeheim’s stellar reputation and deep understanding of the game, his endorsement of Flagg carries significant weight.
While comparisons to Larry Bird may seem daunting, they also serve as a measure of the playmaking ability and versatility that Flagg possesses. Fans and analysts alike can only wait in eager anticipation of what lies ahead for this exceptional young talent.
In summary, Cooper Flagg’s performance this college basketball season has firmly established him as a leading candidate for the next wave of NBA stars. With endorsements from respected figures like Boeheim, the spotlight on Flagg is sure to shine even brighter as he continues to leave an indelible mark on the court.
