NBA Draft analyst picks out best debut by Duke freshman but it isn’t Cooper Flagg

Cooper Flagg’s first official college basketball game is in the books, where he faced his hometown’s Maine Black Bears. The 7th-ranked Duke dominated the University of Maine to win the contest 96-62 as Flagg posted 18 points (6-15 shooting), seven rebounds and five assists in 30 minutes.

However, Jonathon Givony believes that Flagg was far away from having the best debut on the roster. Instead, the draft analyst gave the title to sharpshooter Kon Knueppel.

"As good as Cooper Flagg was, I thought the best performance from a Duke freshman yesterday was once again Kon Knueppel, who could very well end up being a top five pick based on what we've seen so far," Givony said.

"He made some ridiculous shots, he showed a ton of game - creating on a pick and roll going one-on-one - scoring himself, finding teammates unselfishly. He made a major impact defensively. This guy looks like an absolute star, sort of like a young Klay Thompson. He's been a revelation for NBA scouts since arriving in Durham."

"He was not a McDonald's American but he's going to be a very high draft pick." (1:55)

Kon Knueppel played a minute more than Cooper Flagg but was more effective on the offensive end. Going 8-14 from the floor (3-8 from the 3-point line), the Milwaukee native scored a game-high 22 points while garnering four rebounds, two assists and one steal.

Nevertheless, Jonathon Givony commended Flagg's two-way impact, ability to pressurize the paint, force turnovers and overall hustle throughout the game.

Cooper Flagg hinted fans about his teammates' potential

Duke legend Mike Krzyzewski believes that the hype around Flagg is preventing fans from soaking up the talent the Blue Devils have throughout their lineup.

The standout freshman displayed a similar sentiment in an interview with Duke Student Broadcasting. He addressed the lack of media attention on his teammates and claimed that people will eventually find it out themselves.

"For sure, I think, I mean, it's an incredible group of guys on and off the court," Flagg shared with Max Bonnstetter. "We have a ton of great personalities. Everybody is gelling really well. I'm getting to know everybody, so an incredible group of guys, and people will find out."

Apart from Flagg, Kon Knueppel and Khaman Maluach also join the Durhan university as potential picks in the 2025 NBA draft. Moreover, returning players Tyrese Proctor and Caleb Foster are also projected to enter the pool.