Cooper Flagg threatens LeBron’s legacy—and he’s doing it in style

In the NBA, some dates are sacred. December 25 is one of them. It’s the day when stars shine brightest, the spotlight intensifies, and rookies—if they’re lucky—can leave an unforgettable mark. In 2003, LeBron James did just that. Now, more than two decades later, Cooper Flagg is poised to follow in his footsteps… or maybe even outshine them.

At just 18 years and 187 days old, Cooper Flagg became the second-youngest No. 1 overall pick in NBA Draft history, trailing only LeBron James. But what’s really shaking up the record books is the possibility of Flagg making his rookie debut on Christmas Day—something that hasn’t happened since LeBron’s first season with the Cavaliers.

Historic parallels

As highlighted by the Spanish outlet Marca, this parallel between Cooper Flagg and LeBron James goes beyond stats. Flagg enters the NBA not only with raw talent but also as the face of a new era in Dallas. His journey from Maine to Montverde Academy, his dominant freshman year at Duke—where he earned ACC Player of the Year and National Freshman of the Year honors—and his breakout 31-point performance in Summer League after a rough start all point to one thing. Flagg isn’t here to learn the ropes. He’s here to make an impact.

– Face of USA Basketball at 18 years old
– Face of a franchise at 18 years old
– Best prospect since Anthony Davis
– Two-Way Superstar
– Putting the Mavs on National TV at 18
– Christmas Day game as a rookie

Cooper Flagg face of the league agenda is in full effect! pic.twitter.com/kBdwvBLxyG

— MavsOutlet (@MavsOutlet) August 12, 2025

Unlike LeBron James, who joined a rebuilding Cleveland squad, Cooper Flagg steps into a Mavericks team with immediate championship aspirations. He’ll share the court with veterans like Anthony Davis, Klay Thompson, and Kyrie Irving, all under the guidance of head coach Jason Kidd. That changes the equation. Flagg isn’t building from scratch—he’s plugging into a machine that’s already running.

LeBron James acknowledges Flagg’s talent

On his podcast Mind the Game, LeBron James praised Cooper Flagg’s versatility and athleticism, noting that he “can do a lot of different things on the court.” While comparisons are inevitable, analysts agree that Flagg’s path is unique—but equally promising.

If Cooper Flagg delivers on December 25, he won’t just match one of LeBron James’s iconic rookie moments. He could redefine what it means to be a rookie in today’s NBA. Now the question is. Will Cooper Flagg sign his name next to LeBron’s—or carve out a legacy that stands even taller?.