Premature 2025 NBA Mock Draft: Duke’s Cooper Flagg Surprisingly Goes No. 1 over Rutgers’ Ace Bailey

In the last two NBA Drafts, the No. 1 pick has gone to players from France – first Victor Wembanyama in 2023, then Zaccharie Risacher in 2024. However, this streak is expected to end next year with Cooper Flagg as the projected top pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. Flagg, an American player, is considered a one-and-done star at Duke University. He has been a standout at the high school level and on the grassroots circuit for years, making him a top prospect in the upcoming draft. His talent and versatility make him a likely candidate for the first overall selection.

While things can change between now and next June, Flagg’s skills make it difficult to imagine anyone surpassing him at the top of draft boards. His potential impact at Duke and in the college basketball scene could solidify his position as the top pick. The current preseason rankings place Duke ninth in the nation, indicating the strength of their team with Flagg in the lineup. With the flattened lottery odds in the NBA, tanking for a top pick is less of a sure strategy. Nevertheless, the hashtag #TankForFlagg may become popular as teams, including the Brooklyn Nets, vie for the chance to draft him.

This draft projection does not take team needs into account and is more of a big board than a mock draft. The draft order reflects last season’s lottery odds and should not be seen as a prediction for the upcoming NBA season. The talent and potential of Cooper Flagg make him a top prospect to watch as the 2025 NBA Draft approaches.