Cooper Flagg’s stellar performance at USA Basketball’s Olympic camp drew praise from across the basketball world, including star player Kevin Durant.
During the media viewing of Monday’s scrimmage against the U.S. team that will compete in the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris later this month, Flagg drew attention with 11 points, and Durant took notice.
“He seems like a tremendous player,” Durant told reporters on Wednesday. According to the Washington Post“He was 17 years old and came here like [veteran] Almost. No emotions. Just going out there and doing the job.
“That’s a good sign.”
Flagg, a 17-year-old freshman at Duke University, was one of 15 players named to the Team Selects to practice with the men’s national team in Las Vegas this week.
He is the first college player to be invited since 2013, when Doug McDermott and Marcus Smart were part of the team selects.
“I just competed as best I could,” Flagg said. “I gave 100 percent. I’m confident in my abilities and my skills. I’m confident in who I am and what I can do. It feels surreal to be sharing the court with you.” [with the national team]”I’m blessed to have the opportunity to be here. I wasn’t worried. I didn’t put any pressure on myself. I’m here for a reason. I know that.”
Flagg faced off against Team USA, a star-studded team that included LeBron James and Stephen Curry.
Durant missed the scrimmage due to a calf injury.
Flagg adds another layer to his legend with his impressive performance in the desert.
He already ESPN predicts He will be the first overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft in 2025.
He averaged 26.8 points, 12.4 rebounds, 5.2 blocks and 4.7 assists per game in the Nike EYBL league.
