NBA Expert: Duke Commit Cooper Flagg Would Likely Go No. 1 in 2024 Draft If Eligible

Paul KasabianFeatured Columnist IIJanuary 10, 2024

Juan Ocampo/NBAE via Getty Images

Duke commit and Monteverde Academy (Florida) basketball star Cooper Flagg isn’t eligible for the NBA draft until 2025, but he’d have a “good chance” to go No. 1 overall in 2024 if he could declare.

That’s per ESPN’s Jeremy Woo, who spoke with 20 NBA executives and scouts following the G League Winter Showcase regarding the 2024 draft.

“His skill set contributes to winning in a major way, with Montverde currently undefeated heading into this weekend’s HoopHall Classic. While there’s still time before Flagg has to solidify himself as a prospect, he would likely have a good chance to go No. 1 if he were eligible for the 2024 draft based on the degree of interest he is currently receiving from NBA front offices.”

The 6’9″ forward is the unquestioned No. 1 recruit in the class of 2024. Adam Finkelstein of 247Sports called Flagg “an elite two-way prospect” in his July scouting report. His stock has also risen since then as he’s led Monteverde Academy to a 16-0 record and the No. 1 spot on USA Today’s Super 25 basketball rankings.

Flagg would appear to be the top choice in the 2025 NBA draft, too, but for now, he’s got a potential undefeated season to finish out for Monteverde Academy before he heads to Duke. Up next is the Spalding Hoophall Classic in Springfield, Massachusetts.