Hall of Famer Carmelo Anthony talking about Cooper Flagg and where he’ll sit if Duke wins 2 more games…

Hall of Famer Carmelo Anthony talking about Cooper Flagg and where he’ll sit if Duke wins 2 more games…

 

Basketball Hall of Famer Carmelo Anthony is all in on the hype surrounding Duke freshman phenom Cooper Flagg — and he’s ready to show up in a big way if the Blue Devils continue their March Madness run.

 

In a recent appearance on his 7PM in Brooklyn podcast, Anthony couldn’t hide his admiration for Flagg, Duke’s highly touted 17-year-old star who has already captured the attention of scouts, fans, and now, NBA legends. The former Syracuse standout and 10-time NBA All-Star described Flagg as “special,” calling him “one of those guys you just can’t take your eyes off of.”

 

“Cooper Flagg got that presence, man,” Anthony said. “He’s got that fire, that feel for the game — you don’t see that from a kid his age too often. He’s gonna be a problem.”

 

Flagg, who reclassified to the class of 2024 to join Duke a year early, has lived up to every ounce of hype in his freshman season, showcasing elite defense, high IQ, and a rare competitive edge. While still a teenager, he’s already being projected as the potential No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.

 

But it was Anthony’s light-hearted declaration about where he plans to be if Duke wins two more games in the NCAA Tournament that really caught attention.

 

“If they win two more games, I’m sittin’ courtside,” Carmelo said with a smile. “I’m pullin’ up. I gotta see that in person.”

 

For those keeping track, that means Anthony is eyeing a seat at the Final Four — and perhaps the national championship — if Duke advances. The Blue Devils, currently in the Sweet 16, would need to win their next two matchups to punch their ticket to the Final Four.

 

Anthony, of course, knows a thing or two about college basketball glory. In 2003, he led Syracuse to a national title as a freshman — an achievement that helped solidify his legendary status. And while Syracuse fans might raise an eyebrow at his newfound Duke enthusiasm, Melo made it clear this was about recognizing greatness.

 

“I’m Cuse for life, but I’m a fan of greatness,” he said. “When you see it, you gotta salute it.”

 

The admiration for Flagg goes beyond just Anthony. NBA scouts have been flooding Duke games all season to watch the 6-foot-9 forward, who combines defensive instincts with polished offensive skills. His impact on both ends of the floor has been a major reason for Duke’s deep tournament run.

 

As the Blue Devils prepare for their Sweet 16 matchup, all eyes — including Melo’s — will be on Flagg. Whether or not Anthony ends up courtside in the Final Four remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Cooper Flagg has officially caught the attention of basketball royalty.

 

And when a Hall of Famer is ready to show up just to watch you play? That says everything.