The hype around Dallas Mavericks rookie Cooper Flagg has exploded after his recent strong performances in the Summer League and preseason. Lately, many fans and analysts have been comparing the 18-year-old to the NBA legend Larry Bird because of their similar playing styles and two-way abilities, considering both players are 6’9” forwards who can score and create for others. However, former NBA player Channing Frye believes it’s too early for such comparisons. Instead, he sees shades of Andre Iguodala in the rising star.
Channing Frye Compares Cooper Flagg to Andre Iguodala, Not Larry Bird
Channing Frye hailed Cooper Flagg’s strong defense and smart positioning on the court during his recent appearance on the “Road Trippin” podcast. He discussed that his skills reminded him more of Andre Iguodala than Larry Bird. Frye pointed out that Iguodala used these skills to help the Golden State Warriors win four NBA titles.
“Insane,” Frye said on seeing Flagg already being compared to Bird. “Andre? Like Andre Iguodala, to be honest. Like a jack of all trades guy. To me, he does everything well. Coming out of college, Andre is one of the most talented players I’ve ever seen. You look at Andre, he could shoot, he could defend.”
Cooper Flagg’s journey to the spotlight began at Montverde Academy, where he became one of the country’s best young players. His big moment came when he dominated NBA stars Jrue Holiday and Anthony Davis in a Team USA practice session before the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Recently, Cooper Flagg impressed in his preseason debut against the Charlotte Hornets, where he scored 10 points with six rebounds and three assists in 14 minutes.
Channing Frye opines that Cooper Flagg’s Game Mirrors Andre Iguodala’sAndre Iguodala was a strong two-way player in his prime. He averaged over 18 points per game for three straight seasons with the Philadelphia 76ers and was a key defender for the Golden State Warriors. Cooper Flagg’s defense and team-first approach match that of Iguodala, but his offensive ceiling might already be higher. Flagg can score off the dribble, finish inside, and create plays with confidence.
Even though Channing Frye’s comparison shows his massive respect for Iguodala, however, it may undervalue Flagg’s superstar potential. The 18-year-old could be just getting started and has a chance to prove himself in the future.
Also Read: “His defensive prowess excites me the most”: Matt Barnes backs Cooper Flagg ahead of NBA 2025-26 Debut
Channing Frye Compares Cooper Flagg to Andre Iguodala, Not Larry Bird
Channing Frye hailed Cooper Flagg’s strong defense and smart positioning on the court during his recent appearance on the “Road Trippin” podcast. He discussed that his skills reminded him more of Andre Iguodala than Larry Bird. Frye pointed out that Iguodala used these skills to help the Golden State Warriors win four NBA titles.
“Insane,” Frye said on seeing Flagg already being compared to Bird. “Andre? Like Andre Iguodala, to be honest. Like a jack of all trades guy. To me, he does everything well. Coming out of college, Andre is one of the most talented players I’ve ever seen. You look at Andre, he could shoot, he could defend.”
Cooper Flagg’s journey to the spotlight began at Montverde Academy, where he became one of the country’s best young players. His big moment came when he dominated NBA stars Jrue Holiday and Anthony Davis in a Team USA practice session before the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Recently, Cooper Flagg impressed in his preseason debut against the Charlotte Hornets, where he scored 10 points with six rebounds and three assists in 14 minutes.
Channing Frye opines that Cooper Flagg’s Game Mirrors Andre Iguodala’sAndre Iguodala was a strong two-way player in his prime. He averaged over 18 points per game for three straight seasons with the Philadelphia 76ers and was a key defender for the Golden State Warriors. Cooper Flagg’s defense and team-first approach match that of Iguodala, but his offensive ceiling might already be higher. Flagg can score off the dribble, finish inside, and create plays with confidence.
Even though Channing Frye’s comparison shows his massive respect for Iguodala, however, it may undervalue Flagg’s superstar potential. The 18-year-old could be just getting started and has a chance to prove himself in the future.
Also Read: “His defensive prowess excites me the most”: Matt Barnes backs Cooper Flagg ahead of NBA 2025-26 Debut
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