In a development shaking up 2025 NBA Draft projections, an unexpected team has emerged as a surprise destination for Cooper Flagg, the electrifying Duke freshman widely regarded as the consensus No. 1 overall pick. Though traditionally linked with struggling franchises like the Washington Wizards, Charlotte Hornets, or Utah Jazz—each owning a 14% shot at the top pick—Flagg’s name has now been associated with a team less expected: Philadelphia.
CBS Sports’ Kyle Boone spotlighted the Sixers in a recent HQ Spotlight segment, arguing they represent the “ideal environment” for Flagg to thrive.
“I’d choose the 76ers—and for good reason,” Boone stated. “They’ve built an exciting young core. Jared McCain was playing well before his injury, Tyrese Maxey continues to thrive, and Quentin Grimes has impressed since arriving midseason. Adding Flagg would be a perfect new chapter in the story of ‘The Process.’”
Despite high preseason expectations, Philadelphia’s 2024–25 campaign collapsed under the weight of injuries. Paul George, acquired on a max contract to complement Embiid and Maxey, played just 41 games. Embiid, still recovering from recurring knee issues, appeared in only 29. The Sixers finished 24–58—fifth-worst in the NBA, earning them a 10.5% shot at the top pick per lottery odds.
Boone emphasized that Philadelphia is not entering a full rebuild, thanks to promising young assets. Jared McCain, the former Duke teammate of Flagg, is seen as a potential long-term starter. Tyrese Maxey blossomed into an All-Star-level talent, and both Grimes and defensive standout Adem Bona give the Sixers a youthful, balanced foundation.
Flagg—an elite two-way forward with an exceptional basketball IQ, floor vision, and defensive instincts—would immediately become the face of this rising core. His presence could fast-track the Sixers back into contention and potentially mark a new era following the injury-plagued twilight of Joel Embiid’s prime.
While the odds are stacked against Philly landing the No. 1 pick, the NBA Draft Lottery has produced surprises before. Just last year, the Detroit Pistons—owners of the league’s worst record—fell outside the top three, proving that no team’s fate is certain.
Flagg’s Fit in Philly:
- Chemistry with McCain: The two starred together on Team USA and have familiarity from Duke recruiting circles.
- Maxey’s Leadership: As a guard who plays with high energy and unselfishness, Maxey complements Flagg’s dynamic skill set.
- Cap Flexibility: With Embiid and George’s contracts already on the books, the Sixers still have flexibility to build around a potential Flagg-led core, especially as younger players are on rookie deals.
Whether Philadelphia lands the top pick or not, Boone’s take adds new intrigue to the 2025 NBA Draft narrative. If the ping-pong balls fall in Philly’s favor, the city could be on the verge of another “Process”—this time, with a generational talent at the center.
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