Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer Carmelo Anthony lauds Cooper Flagg ahead of Final Four

Cooper Flagg has been the talk of the town for top-seed Duke this season. The Blue Devils star has received praise from NBA legend Carmelo Anthony ahead of Duke's Final Four showdown against fellow top-seed Houston on Saturday.

Anthony, who is set to be inducted into the 2025 Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, appeared on ESPN's College GameDay on Saturday and waxed lyrical on Flagg.

"I think Cooper is very special," Anthony said (0:20). "I think he's a talent and a skill player that we haven't seen in a long time at that age. I think, for him to be able to have that mindset, that approach to the game of basketball, and also him being around other great players in college as a freshman, it allows him to go out there and play his game. But he is really, really good. I think he's really talented and really skilled.

"He affects the game in so many ways other than just scoring the basketball. So, I think that part of the game is something that I really love watching him and admiring him from afar. And as far as how he impacts the game, doing all the little stuff."

Anthony played 19 seasons in the NBA, earning 10 All-Star honors. Given his experience and list of accolades, Anthony's praise for Cooper highlights the talent and ability the Duke star possesses.

Cooper Flagg is averaging 18.9 points, 7.5 rebounds and 4.2 assists per game for Duke this season. The Blue Devils will hope that he continues his excellent run when they face Houston in the NCAA Tournament semifinal.

How to watch Cooper Flagg in action for Duke vs. Houston? TV schedule and live stream details for Final Four clash

NCAA Basketball: Duke star Cooper Flagg - Source: Imagn

The Duke vs. Houston Final Four matchup will be broadcast live on CBS. The game will tip off at 8:49 p.m. ET from Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas.

Fans can also livestream the Duke vs. Houston clash on Fubo or Paramount+.