Dick Vitale has hailed Duke freshman Cooper Flagg as the “best player in the land,” praising his exceptional talent and impact on the team, ahead of the Sweet 16, and comparing him to NBA legends like LeBron James, Magic Johnson, …

Dick Vitale has hailed Duke freshman Cooper Flagg as the “best player in the land,” praising his exceptional talent and impact on the team, ahead of the Sweet 16, and comparing him to NBA legends like LeBron James, Magic Johnson, …

 

As the NCAA Tournament heats up and teams inch closer to the coveted Sweet 16, one player is drawing attention for his exceptional performance and potential to become a future NBA superstar. That player is Duke freshman Cooper Flagg, who has caught the eye of legendary basketball analyst Dick Vitale, who recently declared Flagg the “best player in the land.”

 

In a passionate statement, Vitale, known for his energetic commentary and insightful observations, praised Flagg’s multifaceted game and high basketball IQ. “Cooper Flagg is the best player in the land,” Vitale said. “He has everything you want in a player—skills, size, athleticism, and a mindset that is second to none. You look at him and you see the potential for greatness, and it’s no surprise he’s been able to elevate Duke to new heights this season.”

 

Flagg, who joined Duke as part of an impressive freshman class, has quickly become a key player for Coach Jon Scheyer’s Blue Devils. His combination of versatility, scoring ability, and defensive presence has made him a standout on both ends of the court. Whether he’s locking down opposing players with his exceptional defense or scoring with ease from anywhere on the floor, Flagg has proven himself to be a dominant force.

 

What sets Flagg apart from many of his peers is his composure and maturity beyond his years. Despite being just a freshman, Flagg has displayed leadership qualities, guiding Duke through tough matchups and becoming the centerpiece of the team’s offensive and defensive schemes. His performances have helped Duke remain a top contender in the tournament, and his impact is felt in every game he plays.

 

Vitale compared Flagg’s play to some of the greatest NBA players in history, including LeBron James, Magic Johnson, and Michael Jordan. “When you watch him play, you can’t help but think of the greats,” Vitale said. “He’s got the vision and passing ability of Magic Johnson, the athleticism of LeBron James, and the competitive fire that we saw in Michael Jordan. The kid is a superstar in the making.”

 

The comparisons to LeBron James are particularly notable, as both players share a similar combination of strength, agility, and basketball IQ. Flagg, like LeBron, is capable of taking over games at will, making his teammates better while also creating opportunities for himself. Vitale emphasized that Flagg’s ability to impact the game in so many ways makes him a rare talent in college basketball.

 

While the attention and praise are well-deserved, Flagg remains focused on the task at hand: helping Duke make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament. With the Sweet 16 on the horizon, Flagg’s leadership and elite skills will be crucial if the Blue Devils are to continue their march toward a national championship. “He’s ready for the big stage,” Vitale said. “Cooper Flagg is not just a future NBA player, he’s a player who can lead his team to the promise land right now.”

 

As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on Flagg to see if he can live up to the immense expectations surrounding him. If his performances continue to match the hype, there’s no doubt that Cooper Flagg will soon be a household name in college basketball—and in the NBA. For now, though, his focus is squarely on helping Duke achieve their ultimate goal: winning the national championship.