Cooper Flagg, a name that has dominated the high school basketball scene for the past couple of years, has reached the pinnacle of his basketball journey by being named the CBS Sports Player of the Year. At just 17 years old, Flagg has achieved what few athletes in the history of the sport have managed to: a place among the greats. His journey is a testament to his exceptional talent, hard work, and the unwavering support of his family and coaches. With a skill set that combines elite defense, versatility, and leadership, Cooper Flagg has quickly become one of the most exciting young prospects in basketball. His win as CBS Sports Player of the Year is not just a reflection of his on-court success but also a nod to his potential to impact the NBA and beyond.
A Look at Cooper Flagg’s Journey
Cooper Flagg’s rise to prominence began in his early years growing up in Maine, a place not traditionally known for producing top-tier basketball talent. Despite the lack of a major basketball pipeline in his home state, Flagg’s talent was undeniable from an early age. He began playing basketball at a young age, drawing attention for his natural athleticism and basketball IQ. His ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor made him stand out in any competition, and it didn’t take long for scouts and coaches to start noticing him.
Flagg’s game is defined by his remarkable versatility. Standing at 6’8″, he has the size to dominate in the post, but his agility and skills allow him to play across multiple positions. His defense is perhaps his most impressive attribute. Flagg is an elite shot blocker, with the instincts and timing to change the course of a game with his presence on the defensive end. He’s not just a shot-blocker; he’s an all-around defender capable of guarding multiple positions, thanks to his lateral quickness, length, and anticipation. These qualities set him apart from most players, even those several years older than him.
As a teenager, Flagg quickly gained recognition in the AAU circuit, playing for the Maine United team. His performances caught the attention of national scouts, and soon, the offers from top prep schools and college programs started flooding in. He ultimately chose to attend Montverde Academy in Florida, a powerhouse in high school basketball, to further hone his skills. It was there that he truly began to elevate his game, taking on a leadership role and leading the team to multiple championships.
The Growth of a Superstar
Cooper Flagg’s ascent to the title of CBS Sports Player of the Year wasn’t just about raw talent; it was about growth, maturity, and consistency. While he had all the physical tools to succeed, it was his ability to develop his game year after year that truly set him apart.
During his time at Montverde Academy, Flagg was exposed to a higher level of competition, playing alongside some of the most talented players in the country. This experience was invaluable for his development, as he was constantly pushed to improve in every aspect of his game. In addition to his defensive prowess, Flagg worked tirelessly on his offensive skills. He became a more consistent scorer, improving his shooting range and refining his ball-handling. His passing, once seen as a weak point, became a strength as he learned to run the floor, set up teammates, and facilitate the offense.
Flagg’s ability to contribute to every facet of the game—scoring, passing, rebounding, defending—has made him a complete player and a nightmare for opposing teams. He quickly became known for his high basketball IQ, often making plays that seemed beyond his years. He was capable of taking over a game on either end of the court, and his leadership abilities were apparent as he consistently lifted his teammates’ performances.
In the 2024-2025 season, Flagg’s performance at Montverde Academy reached new heights. His ability to dominate on both ends of the court led Montverde to yet another national title. He averaged 22 points, 11 rebounds, 5 assists, and 4 blocks per game, an all-around stat line that underscored his versatility. His offensive game became more polished, with a smoother jump shot and the ability to create his own shot off the dribble. But what truly made him stand out was his defense—he was an absolute menace, altering shots, grabbing rebounds, and creating turnovers that led to fast-break opportunities for his team. His ability to impact the game in so many ways was one of the main reasons he earned CBS Sports Player of the Year honors.
The Impact of His Defensive Play
While many young players are praised for their offensive abilities, it is often their defense that sets the elite players apart. Cooper Flagg’s defense is among the best in the nation, and it is what truly elevates his game. His ability to guard multiple positions is rare for a player of his age and size, and his shot-blocking ability is one of the best in the country. But what makes his defense so special is his intelligence and anticipation.
Flagg’s timing on defense is uncanny—he knows exactly when to help, when to rotate, and when to contest a shot. His length and leaping ability allow him to block or alter shots without fouling, making him a constant presence in the paint. He has the agility to stay in front of smaller, quicker guards, and his basketball IQ allows him to anticipate passes, making him a serious threat in passing lanes.
At Montverde, Flagg often found himself matched up against some of the top offensive players in the country, and he routinely shut them down. Whether it was blocking shots, forcing turnovers, or disrupting offensive sets, Flagg’s defense was always a game-changer. His presence on that end of the court was often the difference between victory and defeat for Montverde Academy.
Leadership and Work Ethic
Beyond his skills, Flagg’s leadership and work ethic have been integral to his success. Throughout his high school career, he has been known for his professionalism and commitment to getting better. He has a relentless drive to improve and refuses to rest on his laurels. After each game, he would be found working on his weaknesses, whether that was in the gym refining his jump shot or studying film to learn how to read the game better.
Flagg’s leadership extends beyond just his work ethic. He is a vocal leader, constantly encouraging and motivating his teammates. Despite his young age, he commands respect in the locker room, and his confidence is contagious. His ability to elevate the play of those around him is one of the reasons Montverde Academy has been so successful during his time there.
What’s Next for Cooper Flagg?
With his remarkable high school career now behind him, the next step for Cooper Flagg is clear: the college or professional ranks. While Flagg is widely considered a future top pick in the NBA Draft, he has not yet decided where he will play next. College programs are eager to recruit him, with some of the most storied programs in the country vying for his commitment. Whether he chooses to play for a top NCAA program or heads straight to the professional ranks, one thing is clear: Cooper Flagg’s future in basketball is incredibly bright.
Cooper Flagg’s recognition as CBS Sports Player of the Year is a well-deserved honor for a player who has consistently demonstrated elite talent, work ethic, and leadership on and off the court. His rise to prominence has been nothing short of meteoric, and his ability to impact every aspect of the game sets him apart from other young prospects. As he prepares for the next phase of his career, the basketball world eagerly watches, knowing that Cooper Flagg is poised to be one of the next greats in the game.
The future is bright for Cooper Flagg, and his journey is just beginning. Whatever path he chooses—whether it’s college basketball or the NBA—he has already proven that he has the talent, drive, and leadership qualities to be a force in the sport for years to come. For now, however, he can savor the moment, as being named CBS Sports Player of the Year is a remarkable achievement and just the beginning of what promises to be a legendary career.
