Kyrie Irving Says Cooper Flagg Can Handle the Spotlight, Excited to See Duke Star Shine in the NBA
Kyrie Irving, one of the most skilled and electrifying guards in the NBA, recently shared his thoughts on Cooper Flagg, the highly touted Duke commit and projected future NBA star. Irving, known for his own meteoric rise from a one-and-done Duke standout to an NBA champion and eight-time All-Star, believes Flagg has what it takes to handle the immense pressure and scrutiny that comes with being the next big thing in basketball.
The hype surrounding Cooper Flagg is undeniable. The 6’9” forward from Maine has been dominating high school basketball, earning accolades as the No. 1 player in the 2024 class and drawing comparisons to some of the game’s greatest talents. His combination of size, skill, basketball IQ, and defensive versatility has NBA scouts and analysts already projecting him as a future franchise cornerstone. But with great expectations comes great pressure—something Kyrie Irving knows all too well.
Irving, who played his lone college season at Duke under Coach Mike Krzyzewski before being selected first overall in the 2011 NBA Draft, understands the weight of being a top prospect. “The spotlight can be overwhelming if you let it,” Irving said in a recent interview. “But Cooper [Flagg] has that mentality where he embraces the challenge. You can see it in the way he plays—he’s not afraid of the moment.”
Flagg’s journey to Duke has been well-documented. After reclassifying to the 2024 class, he chose the Blue Devils over other powerhouse programs, setting the stage for what many believe will be a one-and-done season before he enters the NBA Draft. His commitment to Duke adds to the program’s legacy of producing elite NBA talent, a list that includes Irving, Jayson Tatum, Zion Williamson, and Paolo Banchero, among others.
Irving pointed to Flagg’s maturity and work ethic as key indicators of his readiness for the next level. “He’s got that killer instinct,” Irving said. “You don’t see many kids his age with that level of focus. He’s not just playing for highlights; he’s playing to win, and that’s what separates the great ones.”
The NBA has seen an influx of young stars making immediate impacts in recent years, from Victor Wembanyama’s historic rookie season to Chet Holmgren’s dominant two-way play. Flagg’s skill set suggests he could follow in their footsteps, with the ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor. His defensive prowess, in particular, has drawn rave reviews, with scouts praising his shot-blocking, perimeter defense, and ability to guard multiple positions.
But it’s not just his on-court abilities that have Irving excited—it’s his demeanor. “The mental side of the game is just as important as the physical,” Irving noted. “Cooper doesn’t seem fazed by anything. That’s huge when you’re making the jump to the NBA, where every night is a battle.”
The transition from high school to college—and eventually the NBA—is never easy, even for the most hyped prospects. Some players struggle with the increased competition, media scrutiny, and the physical demands of playing against grown men. However, Irving believes Flagg’s time at Duke will prepare him well. “Coach K [Mike Krzyzewski] and now Coach [Jon] Scheyer have done an incredible job getting guys ready for the league,” Irving said. “Duke is a place where you learn how to be a pro before you even get there.”
Flagg’s potential has also drawn attention from current NBA stars, many of whom have taken notice of his performances in high school, AAU circuits, and FIBA competitions. His ability to shine against elite competition has only fueled the belief that he’s a generational talent.
Irving, who has faced his own share of challenges—both on and off the court—offered some advice for Flagg as he navigates the next steps of his career. “Stay true to yourself,” Irving said. “There’s going to be a lot of noise, a lot of opinions, but at the end of the day, you have to trust your work and your team. The game will always reward those who put in the effort.”
The excitement around Flagg isn’t just about his individual potential but also about what he represents for the future of basketball. In an era where versatility and two-way impact are more valuable than ever, Flagg’s game fits perfectly. He can score from all three levels, facilitate for teammates, and lock down opponents defensively—a rare combination for a player his age.
Irving, who has played alongside and against some of the best players in the world, sees Flagg as someone who can elevate the game. “The league is in good hands with the young talent coming up,” Irving said. “Cooper is part of that next wave, and I’m excited to see how far he can go.”
As Flagg prepares for his freshman season at Duke, the basketball world will be watching closely. The expectations are sky-high, but if there’s one thing Kyrie Irving is confident about, it’s that Cooper Flagg won’t back down from the challenge. “He’s built for this,” Irving said. “And when he gets to the league, he’s going to show everyone why he’s special.”
The journey from high school phenom to NBA star is never guaranteed, but with the right mindset, work ethic, and guidance, Flagg has all the tools to succeed. And if Kyrie Irving’s endorsement is any indication, the future of basketball is in good hands.
