Cooper Flagg Picks His GOAT on Draft Night

On the biggest night of his life, Cooper Flagg didn’t hesitate.

Walking the red carpet at the 2025 NBA Draft, freshly selected No. 1 overall by the Dallas Mavericks, Flagg faced the question that divides fans: Michael Jordan or LeBron James?

“Michael Jordan, for sure,” he said—instantly, with no debate.

“That’s the GOAT to me,” Flagg told talkSPORT. “I don’t know if it’s how I was raised, but that’s just my answer.”

Raised in Maine, Flagg grew up idolizing Larry Bird, modeling his hard-nosed style and relentless hustle. But when it came to greatness, he turned to Jordan—the player whose legacy defines the NBA era he’s entering.

His pick came despite praise from LeBron, who called him “amazing” with the potential to thrive alongside Dallas’ new stars.

Cooper Flagg may be just starting his NBA journey, but on draft night, he made one thing clear: when it comes to the greatest of all time, his vote is already cast.