In the never-ending world of NBA debates and hot takes, bold comparisons always ignite massive reactions. Recently, former NBA player and ESPN analyst Kendrick Perkins once again stirred controversy when he claimed:
“Cooper Flagg is the white version of LeBron James. When you talk about his IQ for the game, he has that.”
His statement instantly set social media on fire. Some supported Perkins, arguing that Cooper Flagg truly has generational potential, while many others criticized the comment as unnecessary, disrespectful, and racially insensitive.
Who Is Cooper Flagg?
Cooper Flagg, born in 2006, is widely considered the No. 1 high school basketball prospect in the United States. He has committed to play for Duke University, one of the most prestigious programs in college basketball—known for producing NBA stars like Zion Williamson, Jayson Tatum, and Kyrie Irving.
Standing at 6’8” (2.03m) with long arms, elite defensive instincts, and impressive basketball IQ, Flagg is already being projected as the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. Many scouts believe Flagg isn’t just hype—he has the skill, mentality, and toughness to become a real NBA superstar.
What separates Flagg from other prospects is his mature decision-making and cold-blooded mentality despite being only 17 years old. His all-around game and natural feel for basketball are exactly what made some people draw early comparisons to a young LeBron James.
Fair Praise or Racially Problematic?
Perkins’ comments quickly divided the basketball community into two extreme sides:
✅ Supporters Say:
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Flagg’s skill level at 17 is legitimately comparable to LeBron at the same age.
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He has a complete two-way game, elite IQ, and leadership qualities.
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Perkins was only emphasizing playing style and IQ, not race.
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Calling Flagg a “white LeBron” is simply a basketball comparison.
❌ Critics Argue:
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Comparing a teenager to one of the greatest players of all time is outrageous.
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Flagg hasn’t played a single NBA game yet, so the comparison is premature.
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The phrase “white version of LeBron” is racially insensitive and unnecessary.
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This is just another ESPN-style clickbait take designed to stir chaos online.
The Truth Behind the Hype
Looking beyond the emotional reactions, Perkins is not entirely wrong. Cooper Flagg is a rare young talent with superstar potential and a strong mentality. He might truly become one of the future faces of the NBA.
However, comparing him to LeBron James—**a 4x NBA Champion, 4x MVP, all-time scoring leader, and 21-year NBA veteran—**is simply unfair and too early. Talent is potential, not achievement. Flagg still has everything to prove.
Perkins knew exactly what he was doing. He created a headline and sparked a massive debate, something ESPN personalities are known for.
Final Verdict – Fair or Disrespectful?
The truth is: it’s both.
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✅ Fair if we’re talking pure talent and potential.
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❌ Disrespectful when comparing a high school player to a proven icon like LeBron.
But no matter which side of the debate you’re on, one thing is now crystal clear:
🔥 Cooper Flagg is coming—and the NBA better be ready.
