The battle for the NBA’s top draft pick is shaping up to be a clash of titans, as Cooper Flagg and Dylan Harper fight for the crown in their class. Like two rising constellations in the basketball galaxy, their brilliance has captured the imagination of fans and scouts alike. Flagg, the 17-year-old prodigy anchoring Duke’s powerhouse lineup, and Harper, the 18-year-old dynamo carrying Rutgers on his back, are rewriting the script for what it means to be the best. With every game, the debate over who will reign supreme grows fiercer—and the stakes couldn’t be higher.

This heated discussion was the focal point of a recent episode of the podcast “Dauster to Fanta.” Host Rob Dauster asked the pressing question: “Where do you stand on Dylan Harper versus Cooper Flagg for the number one overall pick?” The responses from the panel underscored just how close—and contentious—this race has become.

Terrence Oglesby weighed in confidently, saying, “Cooper Flagg, because of the measurables on his ability to cover ground, is just different to me. Like, it’s not really even”. He further clarified, and stated, “It is a conversation to be had depending on what team’s drafting number one overall. I think there’s a… No, I think Dylan Harper is an All-Star, don’t get me wrong, but Cooper Flagg, just because he covers so much ground, there’s not many people like Cooper.”

Flagg’s performance at Duke underscores Oglesby’s point. In 11 games this season, he’s averaging 16.6 points, 9.0 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game, coupled with his impressive defensive stats, including 1.4 blocks and 1.6 steals. His ability to impact both ends of the court makes him an invaluable prospect.

Yet, Harper’s numbers are no less dazzling. Averaging 23.5 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game at Rutgers, he’s proven himself as a dominant offensive force. “Dylan Harper is as good of a shot-maker off the dribble in college basketball right now as there is,” said Oglesby.

The debate isn’t just about their stats but also the context of their performances. Flagg’s Duke team boasts an array of talented players, giving him the advantage of less defensive focus. Harper, on the other hand, carries Rutgers largely on his shoulders, making his accomplishments even more remarkable.

John Fanta added nuance to the discussion, noting, “I would lean Cooper, but whereas it was 90-10 for Cooper before the season started, I think it’s now 65-35. I really think it’s tightening, and there’s time.” He further went on to state, “And he’s doing it on a team that does not have a lot of talent outside of Ace Bailey.”

Flagg faces $231K setback but stays laser-focused in tightening draft race

One factor that could influence Flagg’s trajectory is his recent $231K drop in NIL valuation, an 8% decline over ten weeks, as reported by On3.com. While such setbacks might rattle some players, Flagg’s focus on the court remains undeterred, a testament to his resilience and determination.

However, as Fanta pointed out, the narrowing gap between the two prospects ensures that the race for the top pick is far from decided.

Oglesby also highlighted another layer of the conversation, saying, “If AJ Dybansa was in this draft class, it would be a different conversation. Those guys are a lot closer.” The absence of a third contender sharpens the focus on Flagg and Harper, making their rivalry even more intense.

As the college basketball season progresses, the narrative surrounding these two stars continues to evolve. Whether it’s Flagg’s defensive prowess and versatility or Harper’s offensive brilliance and leadership, the debate promises to captivate fans, scouts, and experts alike.

In the words of Oglesby, “He’s super talented. He’s a top-five pick. I just… if it’s between him and Cooper, it’s Cooper.” Yet, with the race tightening, it’s clear that both players are poised to define the next generation of NBA greatness.