NBA Scout: Duke's Cooper Flagg Would've Been No. 1 Overall Pick in 2024 Draft

Freshman guard Cooper Flagg has been turning heads since his summer debut with the USA Select Team. Despite having no college experience in July, he was already projected as the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NBA draft, according to a Western Conference scout, cited by ESPN's Baxter Holmes.

"He would have been the first pick in the 2024 draft as well," said the scout, per Holmes. "There's disbelief about him because he's just that good."

The 17-year-old joined a team traditionally composed of NBA players just four months after leading Montverde Academy to its eighth high school national championship.

Surrounded by legends like Kevin Durant, Steph Curry, and LeBron James, the recent high school graduate quickly captured the attention of several NBA veterans for his incredible talent at such a young age.

"He looks like a hell of a player," Suns' Kevin Durant said, per Holmes. "He's 17 years old coming in here playing like a [veteran] almost. No emotion. Just going out there and doing his job. That's a good sign."

The 6'9" guard made his season debut for the Duke Blue Devils just over a week ago, finishing with 18 points, five assists, and seven rebounds while shooting 40 percent from the field.

He continues to generate excitement about his eventual NBA debut and the future that he will have contributing to Team USA.