The buzz around the Bronny James’ draft pick is not ending. Former NBA veteran Steven Hunter even called Bronny’s selection by the LA Lakers an “abuse of power” for obvious reasons. Although the scouts did not consider Bronny an NBA prospect while they observed him playing for the USC Trojans last season, things turned over at the NBA Draft Combine in May this year. Team owners, specifically Rob Pelinka had a change of mind and the Lakers selected LeBron’s son as the 55th overall pick. But while everyone is going after Bronny, one of the prominent projected draft picks for next year, Cooper Flagg, recognized his skills.

Recently the 17-year-old young prospect appeared on the 2024 ESPYS Red Carpet Show and talked to Cam Newton. During their interaction, Flagg was asked about the chances of Bronny’s success in the league and his answer suggested that he thought quite highly of the the 19-year-old. “I think he’s a great player. They wouldn’t have picked him if he wasn’t, “ Flagg said on why the Lakers picked Bronny and highlighted that LeBron’s son was skillful. “You know I think he has what it takes, he has a good work ethic so I’m going to see what he does, “ he added.

It is worth noting that Cooper Flagg is a great prospect for the NBA, as he averaged 16.1 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 3.9 assists for the Duke Blue Devils last year. Even Gatorade named him the 2023-24 ‘Gatorade Best Male Player of the Year’ due to his best performance at the high school level. But these are not the only accolades that the 17-year-old got in his bag. He even made it to the USA Select Team to go against the LeBron-led USA Olympic basketball squad.

Cooper Flagg challenges the stacked-up USA Olympic Squad at practice

The Duke forward recently got his opportunity to aid the USA Olympic team in practice with other players like Jabari Smith Jr, Brandin Podziemski, Jalen Suggs, and Brandon Miller. Notably, Cooper Flagg was the only collegiate player to be a part of the USA Select team. It was an amazing feat for the teen to have the chance to face legends like LeBron James, Kawhi Leonard, Kevin Durant, and Stephen Curry in a practice session and learn from them. The young prospect didn’t just turn up, but almost landed an upset for the Olympic squad as his team ended one point behind with a 74-73 scoreline. Flagg never even expected this opportunity, as he revealed to ESPN.

“I was shocked. I was surprised, and I was really excited for this opportunity. And I’m just really blessed that I was able to come out and capitalize on it and show what I have, “ the Duke forward said about Grant Hill’s invitation.

Flagg even received advice from LeBron and Durant at the practice session that he shared stating, “They’ve all been pretty welcoming. … They’re just telling me to keep working and stay grounded.”

The USA men’s basketball team will be off to the Paris Olympics soon as they are scheduled to start their campaign against Serbia on the 28th of July. While Cooper Flagg will be cheering them on from home, he would also hope he represents the Star and the Stripes in the showpiece event at some point himself.

Before you go, though, check this video of Leonard Armato’s take on the deadly duo, Shaq and Kobe. Don’t forget to check back in for more such updates from our ES Fancast!