“Pretty Close to Zion Williamson”: Hours After Cooper Flagg’s Duke Update, NBA Expectations Get Set

Cooper Flagg has garnered a lot of traction ever since he transferred to the Montverde Academy. The Maine-born has been turning all eyes with his on-court exploits. Recently a journalist put forward his opinion regarding the future career prospects of Flagg which gave his fans a reason to rejoice.

Matt Norlander stated his high belief in Flagg, leaving everyone wanting more.

What did Matt Norlander say?

Norlander opined about the future of Flagg post he chose the Duke University and drew parallels between him and the NBA star Zion Williamson in YouTube short posted by CBS Sports. Norlander’s statement came as a joy to Flagg’s fans who are anticipating seeing his game on the next level.

“I do expect Cooper Flagg to be the rare freshman who a year from now will be a pre-season first team All America choice that almost never happens with someone who has never stepped foot on the college floor. His name, recognition… It will be pretty close to Zion Williamson by the time we start next season and one thing Zion Williamson didn’t have that Cooper Flagg will have is Name, Image, and Likeness and I anticipate Cooper Flagg to potentially make more money as an incoming college freshman than anyone in this relatively young and new NIL era.”

For the unversed, Zion Williamson is a power forward for the New Orleans Pelicans who was drafted as the No. 1 pick. Williamson had earlier received scholarships from 16 NCAA Division 1 programs for his college career. The North-Carolina born decided to go with the Duke Blue Devils and won the National College Player of the year in 2019. Flagg too was in comparable circumstances and announced a judgment similar to Williamson.

The 16-year-old announced his decision to ply his trade for the Duke University on Monday. He had a choice to make between the Blue Devils, the University of Connecticut, and the Kansas Jayhawks. Earlier he had officially visited the Storrs, Connecticut in late September. Flagg came to his decision in a rather interesting way.

Read More: NBA Teams Warned to “Not Blow Draft Picks” Just Because Bronny Is LeBron James’ Son

Flagg then cancelled a trip to the Kansas, thus leaving only Blue Devils and the Huskies as potential options. The USA Basketball Male Athlete of the Year 2022 paid a second tour to the Blue Devils which shifted the ball towards head coach Jon Scheyer and his team. Jon Scheyer was keen to mentor Flagg since he used to mark his presence during the latter’s games ever since Flagg was playing in the 15U Nike EYBL circuit. This move will also help him draft in the NBA 2025 if he decides to declare for the same.

What does Flagg’s future look like?

According to critics, the Maine Gatorade Player of the Year has been considered a tough competitor to Bronny James if they both decide to draft in the NBA 2025 season. He occupied the second spot behind Cameron Boozer but had an excellent run of form in June and July. This made him a top prospect for the 2025 NBA draft.

Flagg has chosen the Duke Blue Devils over everyone and most probably provide the impetus to power them to a note-worthy regular season. The 16-year-old also makes for a Number 1 pick for the NBA 2025 just like Zion Williamson.

Watch This Story: Watch LeBron James Sets Up Lakers 7ft Recruit With an Audacious Lob as Anthony Davis Witnesses From the Bench

Listening to the opinion of Matt Norlander might give Flagg more confidence in his skills. But how do you think Flagg’s career will turn out? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.