Scouting Report: Cooper Flagg And The Standout Performers At The NBA Draft Combine's 5-on-5

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Post on May 13, 2025

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Scouting Report: Cooper Flagg and the Standout Performers at the NBA Draft Combine's 5-on-5

The NBA Draft Combine's 5-on-5 games provided a crucial glimpse into the potential of several top prospects, offering scouts a chance to assess their skills in a game-like setting. While many eyes were on the projected top picks, several players significantly elevated their stock with impressive performances. This year, the buzz centered around one name in particular: Cooper Flagg.

Cooper Flagg: A Star is Born?

17-year-old Cooper Flagg, already a highly touted prospect, solidified his position as a potential lottery pick with his dominant showing at the Combine. His combination of size, athleticism, and skill was on full display. Flagg showcased a polished offensive game, demonstrating a smooth shooting stroke, exceptional court vision, and the ability to finish at the rim with power. His defensive prowess was equally impressive, utilizing his length and instincts to disrupt opposing offenses. While some scouts had questions about his consistency prior to the combine, his performance here proved that he's not just hype; he's the real deal. Flagg's ability to seamlessly blend offensive firepower with lockdown defense makes him a uniquely compelling prospect.

Beyond Flagg: Other Notable Performances

While Flagg undoubtedly stole the show, several other players impressed scouts with their performances during the 5-on-5 sessions.

• Ausar Thompson: Thompson's exceptional athleticism and defensive intensity remained consistent with his pre-Combine reputation. His ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor further solidified his position as a likely top-10 pick. He showed improved playmaking, a key aspect of his game that scouts were keen to observe.

• Gradey Dick: Dick, known for his sharpshooting, showcased his range and consistency from beyond the arc. While his overall game needs further refinement, his elite shooting ability is a highly valuable asset in today's NBA. His performance at the Combine cemented his position as a potential first-round selection.

• Dariq Whitehead: Whitehead's physicality and scoring ability were on display, suggesting a potential future as a high-impact two-way player. Although his efficiency needs improvement, the raw talent is undeniable and makes him an intriguing prospect for teams looking to build through the draft.

What the 5-on-5 Games Revealed

The NBA Draft Combine's 5-on-5 games offered a valuable opportunity to evaluate prospects in a competitive environment. This allowed scouts to assess players' basketball IQ, decision-making under pressure, and their overall fit within a team setting – factors often overlooked in individual drills. The performances showcased a blend of established talent and exciting new prospects, making this year's draft exceptionally intriguing.

Looking Ahead to the Draft

The performances at the NBA Draft Combine's 5-on-5 games undoubtedly impacted draft projections. Cooper Flagg, already a highly regarded prospect, further cemented his status, while other players significantly improved their draft stock. This year’s draft is shaping up to be a truly fascinating event, with plenty of potential stars ready to make their mark on the league. Expect to see several of these names called early on draft night. The Combine provided a critical snapshot of the talent pool; now, the teams will have to decide who best fits their future.