Cooper Flagg is already being recognized as one of the most promising young stars in the NBA. After being selected first overall in the draft, the 18-year-old is expected to be a standout for the Dallas Mavericks this season, a team that’s quickly assembling a roster full of talent and aiming great debut season.
Flagg needed just two games in the Summer League to showcase his full potential as an NBA player. His name is now on everyone’s lips, captivating NBA legends, analysts, rivals, and fans alike with his standout performance during the offseason competition. The hype is real and growing fast.
Shaquille O’Neal Amazed with Cooper Flagg.
His performance has caught the attention of NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal, who starred with the Los Angeles Lakers and was ranked by Bleacher Reportas the sixth-best player in league history. To impress a figure like Shaq, it takes more than just potential, it takes real, undeniable talent on display.
Those are exactly the kind of attributes Cooper Flagg has already displayed, which is why Shaquille O’Neal took notice and shared his thoughts on the young rookie ahead of his NBA debut this season. O’Neal spoke in an interview with DJ Siddiqi of RG about Cooper Flagg, the first overall pick in the NBA Draft.
O’Neal spoke about the pressure that Flagg will face this season “You must realize he’s an 18-year-old kid. You can’t put too much pressure on him. From my experience, you get two years before people really start staying it’s time to win, but I think he’s way above that 18-year-old curve.”
Shaq also shared his personal impression of Flagg with a short but powerful statement that made his respect clear: “In the highlights, he looks phenomenal.” He praised Flagg’s early performances, noting the rookie has already shown an impressive level of skill on the court.
Others had talked about Cooper Flagg, as his name and performances has been in the mouth of everyone, especially from his teammates like Nolan Hickman who played alongside with Flagg in the Summer league. “He’s a complete stud. He was the No. 1 pick for a reason.” He said.
Flagg’s talent hasn’t gone unnoticed by those around him. New teammate Naji Marshall has also praised the rookie’s skill and work ethic. Former NBA player and coach Sam Mitchell expressed his excitement about Flagg joining the Mavericks, calling him a game-changing addition. More voices are recognizing Flagg as one of the most promising young stars.
What to expect from Cooper Flagg this season
Even though his talent has impressed many around the NBA, Cooper Flagg isn’t expected to have a breakout year just yet. As a rookie, he still has a lot to learn, gain experience, and build confidence on the court.
Flagg isn’t expected to carry the Dallas Mavericks on his shoulders in his very first season. Instead, he’s being encouraged to learn and grow alongside the team’s established stars, Anthony Davis, Kyrie Irving, and Klay Thompson, as he develops into a key piece of the franchise’s future.
In addition, Flagg will be guided by a Hall of Fame point guard as his head coach, Jason Kidd, an invaluable source of insight and mentorship. With that leadership, he’ll have the opportunity to grow his game and showcase his full talent in a system that already seems tailor-made for his strengths in this pivotal rookie year
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