JUST IN: Cooper Flagg has committed to join the Los Angeles Lakers, citing his desire to learn from basketball icon LeBron James as a key motivator…

JUST IN: Cooper Flagg has committed to join the Los Angeles Lakers, citing his desire to learn from basketball icon LeBron James as a key motivator…

 

In a headline-grabbing decision that’s sending shockwaves through both the NCAA and the NBA, Duke University’s freshman phenom Cooper Flagg has committed to join the Los Angeles Lakers, citing his desire to learn from basketball icon LeBron James as a key motivator.

 

Flagg, widely considered one of the most promising basketball prospects in recent memory, is set to enter the 2025 NBA Draft and reportedly has eyes only for the purple and gold. Sources close to the situation revealed that Flagg made it known to teams his preference to play under the tutelage of James, the NBA’s all-time leading scorer and a four-time NBA champion.

 

“I want to learn from the best to ever do it,” Flagg said in a statement released early Monday morning. “LeBron’s legacy, leadership, and understanding of the game are unmatched. Being in that environment, soaking up knowledge every day, is the best way for me to grow — as a player and as a person.”

 

The 6-foot-9 forward from Newport, Maine, took college basketball by storm this past season at Duke, averaging 18.2 points, 9.7 rebounds, 3.1 assists, and 2.5 blocks per game. His versatility, elite defensive instincts, and basketball IQ have drawn comparisons to Kevin Garnett and a young LeBron himself.

 

While the official NBA Draft is still months away, the Lakers’ front office is reportedly already making strategic moves to secure Flagg’s draft rights. The team is said to be in ongoing discussions with other franchises to trade up in the draft order if needed.

 

The timing of Flagg’s announcement is also significant. With LeBron James approaching the twilight of his career, speculation about his retirement has loomed large. However, insiders believe Flagg’s commitment may factor into James’ decision to play at least one more season, offering the rare opportunity for the NBA legend to mentor his potential successor.

 

“Cooper has the mindset, work ethic, and competitive fire that make great players truly special,” LeBron James said when asked about the news. “If he ends up in L.A., I’d be more than happy to show him the ropes — the league needs more guys who play the right way.”

 

Lakers head coach Darvin Ham echoed the sentiment, praising Flagg’s maturity and basketball acumen. “He’s got a pro mindset already. We’d love to be part of his journey. Any time you can pair a generational prospect with a generational leader like LeBron, the results can be historic.”

 

The Lakers are expected to make aggressive moves in the offseason, and Flagg’s interest only raises the stakes. Whether through the draft or a blockbuster trade, Los Angeles appears determined to land the Duke star.

 

If all goes according to plan, Cooper Flagg’s dream of learning from LeBron James could soon become a reality — and the next chapter in Lakers history might already be writing itself.