Cooper Flagg likely to be No. 1 NBA draft pick

Cooper Flagg is making headlines during the NCAA men’s basketball tournament. The young player, who is a freshman at Duke, is expected to leave college basketball after this season. He is already drawing attention for his performance and potential future in the NBA. At only 18 years old, Flagg's estimated market value fromName, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals is around $4.8 million. He plans to enter the NBA Draft, where he could secure a contract worth at least $60 million. Including endorsements, his first-year earnings could surpass $100 million. Flagg's rise comes amid a growing interest in women's basketball, led by stars like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese. LeBron James has noted how these women have become icons, boosting the popularity of the sport. Clark has already gained fame by leading her team to consecutive national championships. Despite his success, Flagg’s decision to leave could be seen as a loss for men's college basketball. He has impressed fans with his skills, scoring 32 points, grabbing 16 rebounds, and making 10 assists in his first two tournament games. He is the first freshman in 30 years to achieve such stats early in the tournament. While Flagg's talent has shone brightly, the reality is that he will likely leave Duke, which underscores a challenge for men’s college basketball. With big names like Flagg moving to the NBA quickly, the sport lacks the same iconic figures that women’s basketball is cultivating. NCAA men’s basketball faces a struggle as it tries to connect with fans, while women's basketball is thriving with emerging stars. Flagg's upcoming move highlights this growing divide, as he prepares to leave college for the next big chapter in his career.