When a legend like Shaquille O’ Neal speaks on the next generation, you have to listen. The man who dominated the league for two decades knows talent when he sees it, and even he’s in awe of Cooper Flagg.

When Shaquille O’Neal speaks, the basketball world listens. A larger-than-life figure who redefined the center position and dominated the NBA for two decades, O’Neal’s words carry weight and authority. After all, when you’ve collected four NBA championships, three Finals MVPs, and an MVP award yourself, your take on the future of basketball is not just opinion; it’s insight drawn from years of firsthand experience.

Recently, O’Neal weighed in on a young phenom who’s been generating buzz throughout the basketball world—Cooper Flagg. The name may not yet carry the same recognition as LeBron James or Zion Williamson, but that’s quickly changing. In fact, when O’Neal himself is praising Flagg’s potential and calling him a “generational talent,” the spotlight around this teenager is bound to intensify.

Cooper Flagg, just 17 years old, has become one of the most talked-about players in the world of high school basketball. With an incredibly well-rounded game, a tenacious defensive mentality, and an offensive skill set that’s rapidly evolving, he has earned a reputation as one of the most exciting young prospects in years. His performances on the court have captured the attention of fans, scouts, and analysts alike, but it’s the endorsement from O’Neal that speaks volumes about the kid’s potential.

Shaquille O’Neal’s ability to recognize talent is not just a matter of instinct—it’s backed by his own legendary career. In a career that spanned from 1992 to 2011, O’Neal was not only an imposing physical presence, but he was also able to quickly assess who was going to succeed in the league and who would struggle under the spotlight. He saw greatness in players like Kobe Bryant, whom he helped guide to multiple championships, and he wasn’t afraid to call out players when they didn’t live up to their potential.

What sets O’Neal apart from many analysts and pundits is that his observations are rooted in firsthand experience. He’s lived through the pressure of being the focal point of a team, the expectations of being a franchise player, and the mental toughness required to navigate the league’s ups and downs. His basketball IQ is undeniably high, and when he speaks about the next generation of players, it carries a level of authenticity and gravitas that cannot be ignored.

For O’Neal, it’s not just about size, athleticism, or raw talent. It’s about understanding the nuances of the game—how a player moves, how they adapt under pressure, and how they handle themselves both on and off the court. These qualities are what make O’Neal’s endorsement of Cooper Flagg so significant. If someone like Shaq, who has seen the best and worst of NBA talent, is genuinely impressed with a young player, it’s a signal that the hype surrounding Flagg is more than just the typical buzz around a highly ranked recruit.

Cooper Flagg’s name has become synonymous with “next big thing” in high school basketball circles, and for good reason. At 6’8″ and just 17 years old, Flagg already possesses a combination of size, athleticism, and skill that makes him one of the most sought-after prospects in the country. His game is multifaceted, and while he excels in several areas, it’s his defense and versatility that truly separate him from his peers.

What makes Flagg so intriguing is his rare combination of length, athleticism, and high basketball IQ. He is known for his incredible shot-blocking ability, quick hands, and basketball instincts. On defense, he’s a disruptor, able to switch seamlessly between multiple positions and make an impact at both ends of the floor. His defensive highlights often make jaws drop, with blocks that show off his leaping ability and timing, paired with relentless hustle. At such a young age, this level of defensive awareness and court sense is rare, and it’s one of the qualities that stands out the most when scouts evaluate his potential.

But Flagg isn’t just a defensive specialist—his offensive game is blossoming at an impressive rate. His ability to stretch the floor with a developing jump shot, along with his passing and court vision, has added layers to his already impressive skill set. Flagg can handle the ball, make plays for his teammates, and finish at the rim with authority. It’s the full package: a player who can impact every aspect of the game. His versatility gives him the potential to play anywhere from point guard to power forward, depending on how he develops in the next few years.

Flagg has spent time representing the U.S. at various international competitions, where he’s consistently shown that he can hang with some of the best young talent globally. His performances in the FIBA U17 World Cup, in particular, put him on the map for many NBA scouts and analysts, who immediately began speculating about his future as a lottery pick in the NBA Draft.

For O’Neal to weigh in on Cooper Flagg is no small deal. The legend has seen generations of players come and go, from Michael Jordan to Kobe Bryant, to today’s stars like Giannis Antetokounmpo and Luka Dončić. He’s watched how young players evolve and how they handle the pressure of the professional game. So when he expresses genuine awe for a young player like Flagg, it’s clear that O’Neal sees something special.

“I’ve seen a lot of young players, but this kid, Cooper Flagg, is different,” O’Neal said in a recent interview. “He’s got it all—the defense, the versatility, the skills, and the mentality. I see a lot of greatness in him. He’s one of those guys who could be a dominant force for a long time.”

O’Neal’s endorsement goes beyond just the physical attributes. He’s been vocal about the mentality that Flagg possesses, noting that the teenager has the right mindset for the grind of professional basketball. In O’Neal’s eyes, that’s one of the most important aspects of a player’s development—especially when you consider the pressure of playing in the NBA and the constant spotlight on young players. A strong mentality, the ability to handle criticism, and a relentless work ethic are all essential ingredients for success, and Flagg seems to have them in spades.

While Shaq is known for his larger-than-life personality and playful banter, his comments on Flagg reflect the seriousness with which he views the teenager’s potential. O’Neal’s voice carries weight in the basketball world, and when he says that Flagg could be a “dominant force,” people listen.

It’s one thing to hear glowing endorsements from analysts and scouts, but when someone with O’Neal’s track record and credibility speaks so highly of a young player, it’s impossible to ignore. So what makes Cooper Flagg so special?

1. Defensive Dominance

As mentioned earlier, Flagg’s defense is what sets him apart from many of his peers. In a league that has evolved to emphasize offense and shooting, players who can lock down opponents and control the defensive end are in high demand. Flagg has the instincts and physicality to be a game-changer on that side of the floor. His ability to guard multiple positions, from the point guard to the forward spots, makes him a rare and highly versatile defender. His shot-blocking ability is elite, and he’s often seen using his length and timing to disrupt offensive sets.

2. Versatility

Flagg’s versatility is a key selling point. Not only does he impact the game defensively, but his offensive game is developing at an impressive pace. He’s more than just a traditional forward or center; Flagg has the tools to play in a variety of roles. His ball-handling and passing are improving, which makes him an asset on the offensive end. His ability to stretch the floor with a developing jump shot adds even more value. His versatility means that he’s not limited to one position, making him a fluid player who can adapt to different roles depending on the needs of the team.

3. Basketball IQ

Flagg’s basketball IQ is often highlighted by those who scout him. He reads the game well, anticipates plays, and has a natural feel for the rhythm of the game. His decision-making on both ends of the court stands out, and it’s clear that he understands the intricacies of the sport. His high basketball IQ allows him to make smart plays, whether it’s getting a key rebound, blocking a shot, or running an offense.

4. Mental Toughness

This is perhaps the most important aspect of Flagg’s game that has caught O’Neal’s eye. Mental toughness is something that Shaq values deeply, as he knows that talent alone is rarely enough to succeed in the NBA. Flagg has shown time and again that he can rise to the occasion, especially in high-pressure situations. Whether it’s playing on the international stage or dominating in high school competitions, Flagg seems unfazed by the spotlight. His ability to stay composed and focused is one of the qualities that makes him such an intriguing prospect.

With Shaquille O’Neal’s endorsement and the growing excitement around Flagg’s game, it’s safe to say that Cooper Flagg’s future in basketball looks incredibly bright. His combination of physical gifts, skill set, and mental approach to the game have positioned him as one of the top prospects in the country. Whether he chooses to go to college, join the G League, or even skip that route altogether and declare for the NBA draft, Flagg’s trajectory appears set for greatness.

As we watch him continue to develop, one thing is certain: Cooper Flagg is a name that will be on the lips of basketball fans and analysts for years to come, and if Shaq’s prediction holds true, we could be witnessing the rise of another NBA superstar in the making.