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Duke’s Cooper Flagg Attracts High Praise from Jim Boeheim
In a recent interview, legendary college basketball coach Jim Boeheim offered significant accolades to Duke University’s standout player, Cooper Flagg. At 80 years old, Boeheim, who amassed an illustrious coaching career, shared his thoughts on how Flagg measures up against some of basketball’s all-time greats.
Boeheim expressed a strong opinion, comparing Flagg to NBA icon Larry Bird. “I think he is almost – to me, he’s [Larry] Bird-like, a little bit. Except he is quicker, faster, more athletic, doesn’t shoot it as well, but his shot’s coming,” Boeheim noted during an appearance on OutKick’s “Don’t @ Me with Dan Dakich.”
Outstanding Performance
Throughout the season, Flagg has demonstrated his skill and versatility on the court. In 27 games, the 18-year-old Maine native is averaging an impressive 19.5 points per game, along with nearly eight rebounds and four assists. His performances have been integral to the Duke Blue Devils, who boast a 24-3 record and are currently ranked second in the nation behind Auburn.
Boeheim’s confidence in Flagg as the best player in college basketball is unequivocal. “People that say other people are better than him just don’t know anything about basketball. I mean it’s just crazy. They’ve got to be – I don’t know what they’re watching,” Boeheim stated emphatically.
A Complete Player
According to Boeheim, Flagg excels in all facets of the game. “Cooper Flagg, he’s the best all-around player in terms of doing all the things in college basketball that I’ve seen. I mean there’s better shooters, better rebounders, better passers, but he’s a defender,” he remarked, highlighting Flagg’s defensive capabilities. Beyond his skill set, Boeheim noted Flagg’s competitive spirit, describing him as a player with “an edge” who is unafraid to face challenges head-on.
Boeheim’s extensive experience in coaching includes mentoring some of the greatest talents in the sport, including Carmelo Anthony, who led Syracuse to a National Championship in 2003. During his tenure with Syracuse from 1976 to 2023, Boeheim achieved a career record of 1,015-441, guiding the team to the Final Four on five occasions and winning multiple Big East championships.
Looking to the Future
If Boeheim’s projections for Flagg prove accurate, the young player could potentially have a career trajectory similar to that of Larry Bird. Bird’s accolades include being a Basketball Hall of Fame inductee, a three-time NBA MVP, three-time champion, and twelve-time All-Star. The potential for Flagg’s career is generating excitement and intrigue as the NBA Draft approaches.
Closing Thoughts
As Cooper Flagg continues to shine on the court, the basketball community will undoubtedly keep a close eye on his progress. With endorsements from esteemed figures like Jim Boeheim, Flagg is poised to become a significant force in the sport’s future.
Source
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