Cooper Flagg’s rise to prominence in the basketball world has been nothing short of extraordinary. With a combination of defensive prowess, versatility, and elite athleticism, Flagg has become one of the most talked-about prospects in recent memory. His impressive performances, both at Montverde Academy and in the AAU circuit, culminated in his victory as the 2025 Wooden Award winner, cementing his place as one of the top high school basketball players in the nation.
However, as Flagg’s high school career comes to a close, he now faces the most significant decision of his life: whether to declare for the NBA draft or to continue his basketball journey at the collegiate level. This decision is no small feat, and it comes with an immense amount of pressure. The Wooden Award winner sat down to discuss the hardest parts of making such an important decision. With his future hanging in the balance, Flagg opened up about the many factors that have influenced his thought process, from his desire to continue improving as a player to the potential opportunities that lie in the NBA.
The Weight of Expectations
One of the most challenging aspects of the decision-making process is the weight of expectations that comes with being a top prospect. From the moment Cooper Flagg emerged as a high school basketball sensation, the spotlight has been firmly placed on him. He has been scrutinized by scouts, coaches, and analysts who see him as one of the next great stars of the NBA. This attention can be both motivating and overwhelming.
Flagg acknowledged that the pressure to make the right decision, one that could shape the trajectory of his career, has been a constant in his mind. “It’s definitely a lot of pressure,” he said. “Everyone has an opinion on what I should do, and the expectations are high. But at the end of the day, I’m the one who has to live with the decision, so I’m trying to block out all the outside noise and really think about what’s best for me.”
While the spotlight can be daunting, Flagg has learned to embrace the challenge. His competitive nature has only grown stronger, and he sees the pressure as an opportunity to rise to the occasion. “I’ve always loved competition. The spotlight is just part of it. It’s not about pleasing anyone else; it’s about making the decision that helps me grow and reach my potential,” he explained.
Evaluating Readiness for the NBA
Perhaps the most critical element of Flagg’s decision revolves around whether he feels ready for the NBA. It’s no secret that he possesses an incredible skill set—elite defense, versatility, basketball IQ, and leadership qualities that stand out even at his young age. However, the jump from high school to the NBA is a monumental one, and it’s a decision that Flagg knows cannot be taken lightly.
Flagg has spent countless hours evaluating his game, seeking feedback from coaches, teammates, and mentors who have been a part of his basketball journey. He has considered what he excels at and where he can still improve. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, but Flagg is realistic about the challenges he would face at the next level. “There’s no doubt I’m capable of competing in the NBA,” Flagg said. “But there’s always room to grow. The game at that level is so much faster, and the players are so skilled. The transition from high school to the NBA is huge, and it’s something I need to prepare for.”
One of the key factors Flagg is considering is his development as a scorer. While he has made great strides in this area, particularly with his jump shot and offensive creation, he knows that he’ll need to refine these skills to succeed at the NBA level. “At the next level, everyone can score,” he pointed out. “To be successful, I need to be able to contribute consistently on offense. I’m working on my shooting, footwork, and decision-making, but it’s an ongoing process.”
Flagg’s commitment to improvement is evident in the way he approaches his training. Even though he has already accomplished so much, he remains focused on continuing to grow his game. “If I do decide to make the jump, I want to be as prepared as possible,” he explained. “There’s always something new to learn, and I’m committed to improving every day.”
The Appeal of College Basketball
While the NBA is undoubtedly the dream for many young players, Cooper Flagg has also spent time considering the potential benefits of playing college basketball. The college game provides a unique opportunity for players to further hone their skills, develop as leaders, and experience the culture of a major basketball program. For many top prospects, college basketball serves as an important stepping stone before making the jump to the pros.
“College basketball is a big part of the decision,” Flagg said. “There are so many great programs out there, and I know I would learn a lot at the college level. The experience of playing for a team, learning from coaches, and competing at such a high level is something I’ve thought about a lot.”
Flagg’s experience at Montverde Academy has already exposed him to elite competition, but the college environment offers something different—a team-first mentality, fan support, and the opportunity to further develop as a player and leader. College basketball also provides players with the chance to grow their brand and build a legacy while still being able to showcase their skills for NBA scouts.
“There’s a lot of value in playing college basketball. It’s a great platform to continue to grow,” Flagg said. “You can still get better, and you can still make a name for yourself. I think it’s a great option for a lot of guys, but ultimately, it comes down to what’s best for me and my future.”
The Influence of Family and Mentors
Throughout his basketball journey, Cooper Flagg has had a strong support system, with his family and mentors playing a crucial role in guiding him through the tough decisions he faces. As a young player who has been thrust into the national spotlight, it’s important for Flagg to have people he trusts to help him navigate the complex decision-making process.
“My family has been incredible through all of this,” Flagg said. “They’ve been there every step of the way, supporting me and helping me make the best decisions. I talk to my parents a lot, and they remind me to stay grounded. At the end of the day, they just want me to be happy and do what’s best for me.”
Flagg’s coaches and mentors have also played a significant role in his development, both on and off the court. “I’ve learned so much from the coaches I’ve had, especially at Montverde,” he said. “They’ve really helped me become a better player and a better person. The guidance they’ve given me is something I’ll always appreciate.”
Having a strong support system has been invaluable for Flagg, especially as he faces one of the most important decisions of his life. “I lean on the people around me for advice,” Flagg said. “But at the end of the day, it’s my decision. I’m going to make the choice that I feel is right for me.”
The Business Side of Basketball
As Flagg’s potential grows, so too does the business side of basketball. For many top prospects, the decision to enter the NBA is not only about basketball but also about financial security and brand-building opportunities. The endorsement deals, sponsorships, and media attention that come with being an NBA player are significant factors to consider, especially for someone like Flagg, who has become a household name in the basketball world.
While Flagg is focused primarily on the basketball side of things, he is well aware of the business implications that come with his decision. “The business side is something I’ve had to think about, but it’s not the most important thing to me right now,” Flagg said. “I want to make sure I’m in the best position to succeed as a player, and everything else will follow from there.”
Flagg’s understanding of the business side of basketball has been shaped by his family and his mentors, who have ensured that he is prepared for the financial and media aspects of his career. “I have a good team around me, and they’ll help me navigate that when the time comes,” he explained. “Right now, my focus is on becoming the best player I can be.”
