When it comes to identifying future basketball stars, few opinions hold more weight than that of Michael Jordan. With a career that redefined greatness in the NBA, his perspective on emerging talent is always worth paying attention to. In recent months, Jordan has weighed in on one of the most talked-about names in the 2025 NBA Draft: Cooper Flagg. The 6’8″ forward from Maine has become a household name, and Jordan’s assessment of Flagg’s potential confirms what many have already speculated — Cooper Flagg is a once-in-a-generation talent with the tools to take the NBA by storm.
The All-Around Game: A Throwback to MJ’s Era
What sets Flagg apart from other prospects in the 2025 draft class is his unique combination of skills, basketball IQ, and leadership. Michael Jordan himself has always emphasized the importance of versatility — the ability to impact the game on both ends of the court. Flagg, a 17-year-old forward, is already showing signs of becoming a complete player, excelling in nearly every aspect of the game. His ability to score, rebound, pass, and defend at an elite level makes him a tantalizing prospect for NBA teams.
Jordan has always been a fierce competitor, known for his relentless pursuit of perfection. Similarly, Flagg exhibits a competitive fire that mirrors Jordan’s own mindset. Flagg’s defense is particularly impressive. His ability to guard multiple positions, disrupt passing lanes, and block shots with his timing and athleticism is reminiscent of some of the best two-way players in the league.
Elite Athleticism and Versatility
Much like Jordan’s ability to dominate in a variety of roles — from scoring champion to lockdown defender — Cooper Flagg is a player who doesn’t fit neatly into one category. Standing at 6’8″ with a wingspan that allows him to cover ground quickly, Flagg has the kind of athleticism that NBA scouts drool over. His leaping ability, quick first step, and fast-twitch muscles make him a constant threat in transition, and his ability to get to the basket is nearly unstoppable.
Flagg’s versatility extends to his offensive game, as he’s capable of scoring from nearly anywhere on the floor. Whether it’s hitting a jumper from the mid-range, finishing at the rim, or even facilitating for teammates, Flagg can do it all. The fact that he can also stretch the floor with his shooting gives him an added dimension that NBA teams covet in today’s game.
Basketball IQ: A Leader on the Court
While physical attributes like size and athleticism are critical, Jordan has always placed a high value on basketball IQ. Jordan wasn’t just a physical specimen; he was a master of the mental game, able to read defenses and make the right play at the right time. In this regard, Flagg has shown that he has the tools to follow in MJ’s footsteps.
Flagg is not only capable of reading the game, but he also has the maturity to lead a team at a young age. His ability to make the right decisions, whether it’s a timely pass or knowing when to take over a game, speaks to his understanding of basketball fundamentals. He plays with a poise beyond his years, a quality that is rare among young players entering the draft. This is a trait that Jordan himself admires, as leadership on the court can often be the difference between good players and great players.
The Intangibles: The Jordan Factor
Michael Jordan’s legacy was built on his unrelenting work ethic, and Flagg seems to possess similar intangibles. Jordan was never satisfied with simply being good — he always sought ways to improve, often pushing his limits in training and competition. Flagg’s dedication to his craft and his willingness to put in the hard work on both ends of the court are qualities that impress Jordan and NBA scouts alike.
Moreover, Flagg’s mental toughness — especially in high-pressure situations — will serve him well at the next level. The ability to stay calm and perform in the clutch is a trait that few prospects possess at such a young age, but Flagg has already demonstrated it in various high-stakes settings.
The Future of the NBA: MJ’s Endorsement
When Michael Jordan speaks, the basketball world listens. His endorsement of Cooper Flagg as one of the most promising prospects in the 2025 NBA Draft should be seen as a massive stamp of approval. Jordan recognizes the intangibles that will make Flagg successful — from his skill set to his mentality. In a draft class that is expected to be loaded with talent, Flagg’s name is already at the top of the list for many experts, and Jordan’s confidence in him only solidifies the hype surrounding the young forward.
As the 2025 NBA Draft approaches, all eyes will be on Cooper Flagg. With Michael Jordan backing him, it’s clear that Flagg has the potential to be not just the top pick but a future NBA superstar. If Flagg can continue to develop his game and maintain his work ethic, there’s no limit to what he can accomplish in the league. From MJ’s eyes, Cooper Flagg is the future — and it looks incredibly bright.
