NBA Legend Carmelo Anthony Was Right About Cooper Flagg: A Look into the Phenomenal Talent of a Rising Star

In the world of basketball, the path from high school to the NBA is often paved with hype, pressure, and sky-high expectations. While it is not uncommon for young players to be thrust into the spotlight, few have generated as much buzz as Cooper Flagg, a high school sensation whose talent has caught the attention of some of the game’s greatest players. Among those who have taken notice of Flagg is NBA legend Carmelo Anthony, who was quick to voice his admiration for the young star.

Anthony, a 10-time NBA All-Star and one of the most prolific scorers in league history, has seen it all during his career. His insights into the game are invaluable, and when he praises a young player, people tend to listen. In this case, Carmelo Anthony was right about Cooper Flagg — the young phenom has shown the potential to be a game-changer at the highest level of basketball.

In this article, we’ll explore why Carmelo Anthony’s opinion on Cooper Flagg is spot on and dive into the factors that make Flagg such a promising talent. From his unmatched work ethic to his incredible versatility on the court, there are many reasons why Anthony’s endorsement of Flagg should be taken seriously.

Who is Cooper Flagg?

Cooper Flagg is a 6’8″ forward from the state of Maine, currently a high school player with the Montverde Academy in Florida. Despite being only 17 years old, he has already attracted significant attention from college programs and NBA scouts. Flagg is widely regarded as one of the top prospects in the 2025 NBA Draft class, and his skill set has drawn comparisons to some of the game’s biggest stars.

What makes Flagg unique is his combination of size, skill, and basketball IQ. He has a rare mix of length and athleticism, allowing him to impact the game in a variety of ways. As a forward, he can guard multiple positions, play in transition, and score from virtually anywhere on the court. His defensive ability is especially noteworthy — Flagg is known for his shot-blocking, passing lanes awareness, and rebounding prowess, making him a two-way player who can excel on both ends of the floor.

What sets Flagg apart from many other prospects is his mentality and work ethic. Despite being so young, Flagg carries himself with maturity beyond his years, focusing on constant improvement. His willingness to learn and adapt has already earned him a reputation as one of the hardest workers in the gym, a trait that caught the attention of Carmelo Anthony.

Carmelo Anthony’s Praise for Cooper Flagg

When Carmelo Anthony speaks about basketball, his words carry weight. The former NBA superstar has had a storied career, with accolades that include an Olympic gold medal, an NCAA championship, and a future Hall of Fame induction. As someone who has competed at the highest level for nearly two decades, Anthony is no stranger to the pressure of being a top prospect.

So, when Carmelo Anthony singled out Cooper Flagg for praise, it immediately signaled that Flagg was no ordinary talent. In an interview, Anthony described Flagg as a “future superstar,” recognizing not only his on-court ability but also his mentality and approach to the game. Anthony made it clear that Flagg’s skill set, versatility, and work ethic were the key factors that made him stand out as a future star.

For a player like Carmelo Anthony to give such high praise to a high school athlete is a significant endorsement. Anthony is known for his ability to analyze a player’s potential with a discerning eye, and he doesn’t offer compliments lightly. His confidence in Flagg’s future speaks volumes about the young player’s ability to make an impact on the NBA.

Flagg’s Skill Set: A Glimpse into His Future

To understand why Carmelo Anthony was right about Cooper Flagg, it’s important to take a closer look at Flagg’s skill set and how it translates to the next level.

Defensive Prowess

One of the most striking aspects of Flagg’s game is his defense. In a league where defense is often overlooked, especially among young players, Flagg stands out as a defensive juggernaut. His ability to guard multiple positions makes him a versatile weapon on the defensive end. Standing at 6’8″ with a 7-foot wingspan, Flagg is an elite shot-blocker, capable of altering shots both at the rim and in the perimeter.

Flagg’s basketball IQ is also exceptional. He reads the game well, anticipating passes and positioning himself in ways that allow him to disrupt the offense. His quick hands and ability to close out on shooters make him a nightmare for opposing offenses. Whether it’s blocking shots, creating turnovers, or securing key rebounds, Flagg’s defensive ability is one of his most exciting attributes.

Offensive Versatility

Flagg is not just a one-dimensional player; he is an offensive force in his own right. His combination of ball-handling skills, shooting touch, and finishing ability make him a threat from all areas of the court. He can drive to the basket with authority, finish through contact, and has a reliable mid-range jumper. Flagg has also shown the ability to stretch the floor with his shooting, making him a potential floor spacer at the next level.

At Montverde Academy, Flagg has demonstrated his basketball IQ on offense, running the floor in transition and making smart decisions in pick-and-roll situations. He’s also an adept passer, capable of finding teammates in scoring positions. His ability to contribute in multiple areas on offense is a key reason why scouts are so high on his future.

Leadership and Maturity

Beyond his physical tools, Flagg’s leadership and maturity are perhaps his most impressive traits. At such a young age, Flagg carries himself with poise and confidence on and off the court. He is known for his work ethic and commitment to improving his game, frequently staying late in the gym to fine-tune his skills.

Flagg’s maturity is also reflected in his demeanor during games. He plays with a level of poise that belies his age, remaining calm and focused even in high-pressure situations. This mental toughness is something that has set him apart from many of his peers and is a key factor in why players like Carmelo Anthony believe he has a bright future.

Why Carmelo Anthony Was Right

Carmelo Anthony’s endorsement of Cooper Flagg speaks to the young player’s rare blend of talent, work ethic, and mental approach to the game. Anthony, who has seen firsthand the challenges that come with being a top prospect, understands that success in the NBA is about more than just physical ability. It’s about the drive to constantly improve, the mental toughness to overcome adversity, and the ability to make an impact on both ends of the floor.

Flagg’s skill set is impressive, but it’s his mindset that truly sets him apart. He has the potential to become a future star in the NBA, and Carmelo Anthony’s recognition of that potential is a testament to how special Flagg really is. As Flagg continues to develop his game and refine his skills, there’s little doubt that he will continue to live up to the hype — and perhaps exceed it.

Carmelo Anthony’s praise for Cooper Flagg was not only deserved but also a reflection of the young star’s immense potential. With his defensive prowess, offensive versatility, and leadership qualities, Flagg is a player to watch in the coming years. If he continues to develop and maintain the same work ethic and mindset that have impressed Anthony and other NBA insiders, there’s no question that Flagg has a bright future ahead of him.

As Flagg’s journey continues, Carmelo Anthony’s endorsement will likely serve as a reminder of just how high the expectations are for this rising star. If Flagg can live up to those expectations, he could very well become one of the next great players in the NBA — and Anthony’s faith in him will prove to be well-founded.