Cooper Flagg is poised to fulfill his dream of becoming an NBA player on Wednesday night, with reports indicating that the Dallas Mavericks will choose him as the first overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. Flagg has been in the spotlight since his exceptional season at Duke, where he claimed the National Player of the Year award. This was anticipated even before his time at Duke; many believed he would be the top draft choice back when he reclassified in 2023.

Over the two years that followed, Flagg secured his position as the top prospect for the 2025 draft and now faces the challenge of living up to the immense expectations placed on him.

Flagg will not be the first player to tackle the weight of expectation, as several notable predecessors from the last two decades have experienced similar pressures. Below is a retrospective look at the most hyped prospects of the 21st century and their journeys after being drafted.

LeBron James (2003)

The Hype: James gained national attention during his high school years at St. Vincent-St. Mary High School, where his games were televised and he graced the cover of Sports Illustrated as “The Chosen One.”

NBA Career: LeBron has established himself as one of the greatest players in history, achieving four MVPs and four championships during his career. He remains a stalwart in the league, continuing to earn All-Star selections even into his 40s.

Verdict: Exceeded the hype and more.

Greg Oden (2007)

The Hype: Oden was highly anticipated as one of the first star players in the one-and-done era, leading his college team to the national championship game.

NBA Career: Injuries plagued Oden’s career post-draft, leading to limited playing time and missed seasons until his eventual exit from the NBA.

Verdict: Fell short.

Kevin Durant (2007)

Hype: Durant entered the draft after a stellar freshman season at Texas, registering one of the highest points-per-game averages in the nation.

NBA Career: Durant became an elite scorer in the league, winning multiple titles and MVP awards throughout his distinguished career.

Verdict: Exceeded the hype.

Blake Griffin (2009)

Hype: Griffin became a prominent figure during his college years, known for his dynamic dunks.

NBA Career: He made a significant impact upon joining the NBA and earned multiple All-Star nods.

Verdict: Met the hype.

John Wall (2010)

Hype: John Calipari molded Wall into a top prospect, showcasing exceptional skills during his collegiate season at Kentucky.

NBA Career: Wall quickly rose as one of the best passers in the league, enjoying success early in his career, only to be slowed later by injuries.

Verdict: Met the hype.

Anthony Davis (2012)

Hype: Davis was regarded as a top prospect and was key to his college team’s success in winning a national championship.

NBA Career: Davis has maintained a high level of play and helped lead the Lakers to a title.

Verdict: Exceeded the hype.

Andrew Wiggins (2014)

Hype: Wiggins garnered unprecedented attention during high school before joining Kansas, where he solidified his status as a top draft pick.

NBA Career: Traded shortly after being drafted, Wiggins has had a solid career with accomplishments including an All-Star nod.

Verdict: Fell short of expectations.

Ben Simmons (2016)

Hype: Simmons was a standout at LSU, leading to early buzz as a top draft prospect.

NBA Career: Simmons faced various challenges, including injuries and performance issues, leading to an inconsistent career path.

Verdict: Fell short of hype.

Zion Williamson (2019)

Hype: Williamson captured the spotlight with his incredible dunks in college, leading many to consider him a top pick.

NBA Career: Williamson has shown flashes of brilliance but battled injuries throughout his early career.

Verdict: Too soon to tell.

Victor Wembanyama (2023)

Hype: Wembanyama was a widely regarded top prospect before the draft, showcasing impressive skills in Europe.

NBA Career: Early in his career, Wembanyama has already made a significant impact, winning Rookie of the Year and establishing himself as a promising player.

Verdict: Early returns are promising.