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

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Post on May 12, 2025

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

The NBA Draft Combine's 5-on-5 games always provide a fascinating glimpse into the future of the league, offering scouts a chance to evaluate prospects in a competitive game setting. This year was no exception, with several players showcasing their skills and raising their draft stock. However, one name dominated the conversation: Cooper Flagg.

Cooper Flagg: A Potential Top-5 Pick?

Flagg, the highly touted 17-year-old phenom, lived up to the hype, displaying a polished game beyond his years. His performance solidified his position as a potential top-5 pick in the upcoming draft. Scouting reports consistently highlight his exceptional athleticism, length, and court awareness. During the 5-on-5 games, Flagg showcased:

• Versatility: He comfortably played both forward positions, showcasing his ability to score inside and out. His smooth jump shot and impressive finishing around the rim were consistently on display.
• Defensive Prowess: Flagg's length and instincts translated to impactful defense. He displayed impressive shot-blocking ability and active hands, consistently disrupting opposing offenses.
• High Basketball IQ: Flagg's decision-making was impressive for a player his age. He rarely forced shots and showed a knack for making the right play, whether it was a scoring opportunity for himself or a well-timed assist to a teammate.

Beyond Flagg: Other Standout Performers

While Flagg stole the show, several other players impressed scouts with their performances in the 5-on-5 games. These players significantly boosted their draft stock:

• Ausar Thompson: Thompson continued to solidify his reputation as a dynamic two-way player. His athleticism and defensive intensity were on full display.
• Amen Thompson: Amen, Ausar's twin brother, showcased his incredible playmaking ability and impressive court vision. His ability to create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates is a valuable asset.
• Jarace Walker: Walker's strength and physicality were evident, dominating the paint on both ends of the court. His improved offensive game also caught the eye of many scouts.

The Combine's Impact on Draft Projections

The 5-on-5 games at the NBA Draft Combine often dramatically shift draft projections. While pre-combine rankings provide a valuable baseline, the live game action offers a crucial context for evaluating a player's skills, especially against high-level competition. This year's combine reinforced existing narratives around certain players while also revealing some surprising breakout performances.

Looking Ahead:

The NBA Draft Combine provides a critical snapshot of the top prospects in the upcoming draft. While individual games don't tell the whole story, they provide valuable insights into each player's strengths and weaknesses under pressure. Flagg's performance, in particular, cemented his place as a potential franchise cornerstone, while others solidified their positions in a fiercely competitive draft class. The coming weeks will continue to shape the narratives surrounding these players as the draft approaches, with team workouts and interviews providing further insights. However, the 5-on-5 games at the combine offered an undeniably exciting preview of the future of the NBA.