17-Year-Old Basketball Phenom Shines in Team USA Scrimmage

NBA USA TEAM

In an arena filled with basketball legends a young sensation stood out during Mondays Team USA scrimmage. Cooper Flagg, a 17 year rising star showcased a combination of talent, confidence and composure while keeping pace with seasoned players bound for the Hall of Fame. His remarkable display featured drives, to the hoop clutch three pointers from jaw dropping dunks that left a lasting impact on all spectators.

Flaggs selection for the elite squad—established to challenge Team USA—underscored his ascent. A month after attending his high school prom this versatile forward has already captured attention as a top pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. His standout performance, in the Vegas scrimmage added another chapter to his growing scouting report hinting at his potential to lead the wave of American basketball stars.

Orlando Magic coach Jamahl Mosley, who coached the team commended Flagg for his range of skills; “He’s a remarkable young individual. His skill level, basketball intelligence and resilience are impressive—he’s not hesitant, in moments excels, in defending the rim makes plays and reads the game well. He possesses all those qualities.”

This autumn Flagg is heading to Duke University with his skills planning to stay for a year before entering the NBA Draft. At 6 foot 8 hes known for his shooting ability and aggressive style, near the basket shining since his high school days in Maine. Despite facing professionals and college players in the past this trip, to Vegas marked a challenge.

Flaggs parents proudly watched as he competed against some of the NBAs talents. Ralph, his father mentioned how Cooper was initially awestruck when tasked with guarding LeBron James. “When he first stepped onto the court and found himself matched up against LeBron James he looked up. Thought, ‘Okay I guess we’re really doing this.’ This opportunity is unbelievable ” shared Ralph Flagg.

However Coopers amazement didn’t last long. “When I first entered the gym and saw all those players I was impressed ” he shared. “. Once the game started it was just basketball, to me. I’m focused on winning; I have a spirit at heart. It all comes down to my confidence, in my skills and abilities. I understand myself and what I’m capable of achieving.”

In the moments of a contested match Flagg almost led the elite team to victory, with a string of decisive plays. His younger NBA teammates showed their respect by deferring to him. One standout moment was when he made a three point shot over Anthony Davis, who had blocked one of Flaggs shots the day. Following that Flagg quickly scored on a putback. Drew a foul seizing control of the scrimmage.

“Did you see what he just did?” Mosley exclaimed. Everyone had noticed. Even the Olympians praised his performance soon as the game ended. “Hes striving for greatness ” remarked Devin Booker.

Flagg absorbed advice from the players, around him. “It was truly an honor to be here competing ” he shared. “Each one of them offered me guidance and support. They all welcomed me warmly. Encouraged me to keep working and stay confident.”

The hand picked squad consisted of a mix of, up and coming NBA stars such as Jalen Duren from Detroit Brandon Miller from Charlotte, Jaime Jaquez from Miami and Trayce Jackson Davis from Golden State. Their dual objective in joining was to provide a challenge to the Olympians and nurture future Team USA athletes.

“It felt amazing to be in the gym for high caliber competition ” shared Jabari Smith Jr. From Houston. “It gave me the opportunity to fine tune my skills, improve and return even stronger, for the season.”

Assuming Flagg continues to improve and adjust to the demands of the game he stands a chance of being selected for upcoming Team USA squads with a possibility of participating in the next FIBA World Cup. His time, in Las Vegas was brief but incredibly valuable in terms of learning. Mosley described him as a learner noting that the initial days focused on areas for improvement both offensively and defensively. The exposure to NBA coaching and guidance from NBA players was beneficial even though it lasted a few days. Ralph Flagg is optimistic that this experience will boost his sons confidence as he prepares to join Duke University. He believes that after such an opportunity his son will approach the season at Duke with a sense of readiness and certainty, about his skills playing alongside NBA level talent.

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