“Cooper Flagg, who’s going to be a big-time player here for Team USA down the road.” Those are the words of none other than LeBron James for one of the most sensational freshmen to enter the NCAA scene this season. And why not? It’s not every day that a freshman captivates the college basketball world. But Flagg’s debut at Duke has already sparked conversations about NBA greatness. But as he continues to cement his status as the favorite for the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, the pairing of Rutgers’ dynamic duo have made a splash that could challenge Flagg.

6’9″ forward with great versatility, Cooper Flagg has been the crown jewel of the 2025 NBA draft class for a long time. At Duke, he has been able to dominate on both ends of the floor, leaving scouts and fans wondering what he can do.

However, in a recent episode of Locked On College Basketball, while talking about freshman Non-Con All-Americans, host Isaac Schade spotlighted Ace Bailey and Dylan Harper as legitimate contenders, adding fuel to the debate over Flagg’s No. 1 draft status.

Schade didn’t shy away from praising Bailey and Harper. “As crazy as it sounds, I have two teammates also on this list, numbers two and three—that’s gonna be Ace Bailey from Rutgers and Dylan Harper from Rutgers,” Schade said. With his 16.3 ppg and 8.6 rpg, there is no doubt left that he is the offensive and defensive force for the Blue Devils. However, seems like he has contenders to match these numbers as well.

He also highlighted, “For Bailey, 17.6 points a game 33% from three, 7.6 rebounds and one steal a game. it’s so funny with Bailey because this dude is a black hole; if he gets the ball, he’s shooting it. It’s pretty funny, and you know what, frankly he probably should because he’s really great. And he’s probably better than you.”

The Freshman forward is averaging 17.6 points and 7.6 rebounds, shooting 45.8% from the field and 33.3% from the three-point line. Bailey has started all 10 games he’s played and averaged 33.8 minutes per game. His versatility has been a standout — scoring and rebounding — and a crucial guy on both ends of the floor. And so has Harper.

Talking about his teammate, Schade added, “But his teammate Dylan Harper listen to what this dude is doing: 23.3 points a game. That’s fourth in the nation, not just Power Conference teams, not for freshmen. Fourth in the nation amongst anybody, 4.8 rebounds a game, 4.2 assists a game, and one steal a game. And he’s shooting 35% from three.” 

Freshman guard Dylan Harper has averaged 23 points on a shooting of 52% from the field and 36.4% from three. Raising his resume are his 4.8 rebounds and 4.4 assists per game for the Scarlet Knights this season. Clearly, both freshmen Rutgers Bailey and Harper have been turning heads with their explosive performances.

Forward Bailey (6’10”) has impressed with scoring and defensive play. While guard Harper (6’5”) impressed with his playmaking and offensive efficiency. The duo is one that scouts seem to be taking notice of.

Schade concluded, “Both of these guys are so high usage but they’ve stepped in and they’ve done a job for Rutgers. Who’s you know they’re fine… Rutgers is fine but man Bailey and Harper appointment viewing for me if you’ve not seen them, make sure you check it out.”

Bailey’s best game was a 25-point outing with five steals, while Harper has been among the most prolific scorers in the country. Their performance under pressure has put them in the spotlight and has become Flagg’s biggest rivals.

But it’s the overall impact on a game that keeps Cooper Flagg ahead. His all-around game is second to none: Domination of scrimmages against NBA stars, leading Duke in points, rebounds, and assists. Flagg’s performances have only reinforced why he remains the top draft prospect.

Why Cooper Flagg is a favorite for the No. 1 NBA draft pick

With his 6’9” frame and 205-pound build, Flagg is the perfect NBA forward. He can guard multiple positions, come up with blocks, and run easy fast breaks due to his versatility. Offensively and at times defensively, the scouts note him to be a basketball IQ and a two-way menace. And the stats tell Flagg’s dominance, as he’s averaging 16.3 ppg on 42% shooting from the field, 8.6 rpg, 1.3 blocks, and 1.5 steals per game.

Bailey and Harper are formidable competition, but what Flagg offers with his ability to impact games on both ends of the floor is something the others can’t provide. NBA executives continue to peg him as the favorite for the No. 1 spot in the 2025 draft.

Over the course of the season, that rivalry will probably heat up between Flagg and the Rutgers duo. Every performance will be under the microscope with big games and tournaments to come. It’s maintaining his lead for Flagg. This is about proving, for Bailey and Harper, that they belong in the conversation.

The 2025 NBA Draft will be one of the most contested drafts in the past few years. While Flagg does hold the position of the top pick at the moment, Bailey and Harper are not going to throw the towel without a fight. And as fans, we are here to witness every minute of the show.