Cooper Flagg’s impressive showing at USA Basketball’s Olympic camp has drawn praise across the basketball world, including from star Kevin Durant.
During the media viewing portion of Monday’s scrimmage against the U.S. team headed to Paris for the 2024 Summer Olympics later this month, Flagg scored 11 points and stole the show, which Durant took notice of.
“He looks like a hell of a player,” Durant told reporters on Wednesday, according to the Washington Post. “He’s 17 years old coming in here playing like a [veteran] almost. No emotion. Just going out there and doing his job.
“That’s a good sign.”
Flagg, the 17-year-old Duke incoming freshman, was tapped as one of 15 players named to Team Select to work with the men’s national team in Las Vegas this week and Flagg.
He is the first college player invited since 2013 when Doug McDermott and Marcus Smart were part of Team Select.
“I was just competing and trying as hard as I can,” Flagg said. “Giving it 100 percent. I’m confident in my ability and skill. I’m confident in who I am and what I can do. It’s a surreal feeling being able to share the court [with the national team]. I’m blessed to have this opportunity to be here. I had no worries. I didn’t put any pressure on myself. I’m here for a reason. I know that.”
Flagg played against a star-studded Team USA roster that included LeBron James and Steph Curry.
Durant was sidelined with a calf injury for the scrimmage.
Flagg is only adding to his lore with his impressive showing in the desert.
He is already projected by ESPN to be the 2025 No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 NBA draft.
He averaged 26.8 points, 12.4 rebounds, 5.2 blocks and 4.7 assists per game in the Nike EYBL League.