How Much Is Cooper Flagg Net Worth: Is He the Next LeBron James? NBA Comparison and Hype Breakdown

Cooper Flagg is the most talked-about prospect in basketball today. At just 18 years old, he was selected first overall in the 2025 NBA Draft by the Dallas Mavericks. With comparisons to LeBron James dominating headlines, fans and analysts are asking two key questions: how much is Cooper Flagg worth, and is he really the next LeBron James?

What Is Cooper Flagg's Net Worth in 2025?

As of mid-2025, Cooper Flagg's net worth is estimated at around £3.4 million ($4.8 million). This impressive figure stems largely from name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals during his one season at Duke University. Major endorsements with brands such as Gatorade, New Balance, and Fanatics boosted his earnings to a reported £20 million ($28 million) before entering the NBA.

Flagg signed a four-year rookie deal worth £45.6 million ($62.7 million) with the Mavericks, including a guaranteed salary of £10 million ($13.8 million) in his debut season. Analysts project that if he meets All‑NBA benchmarks, he could unlock supermax extensions worth £261 million ($359 million) and £370 million ($509 million) in subsequent deals. If these projections materialise, his career earnings could approach £677 million ($930 million) by age 31.

Is Cooper Flagg the Next LeBron James? A Closer Comparison

The LeBron James comparisons stem from Flagg's draft position, versatile skill set, and early dominance. At 6'9" with elite vision and defensive instincts, he averaged 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.4 blocks, and 1.4 steals at Duke, leading them to the NCAA Final Four and earning National Player of the Year honors.

According to Awful Announcing, Kendrick Perkins said on ESPN's draft preview show, 'If LeBron James and Kevin Garnett had a baby, you get Cooper Flagg', praising his complete game, tenacity, and intensity.

Former NBA player Brian Scalabrine also highlighted Flagg's basketball IQ and point-forward ability. Still, some analysts warn against overhyping, noting LeBron's unmatched athleticism compared to Flagg's more measured, strategic style. Some scouts have compared him instead to Franz Wagner or Andrei Kirilenko, focusing on his two‑way impact rather than explosive dominance.

Breaking Down the Media Hype Around Flagg

In Maine, Flagg has already achieved near-celebrity status, with local media calling him 'bigger than Taylor Swift'. National outlets and social platforms have fuelled comparisons to NBA legends, while Reddit debates his long-term potential.

LeBron James praised Flagg as a 'winner' on Mind the Game and, according to Pro Football Network, highlighted his ideal fit with Dallas' veteran core, Klay Thompson, Kyrie Irving, Anthony Davis, and a seasoned coach giving him the developmental support LeBron lacked in Cleveland.

Still, with the hype comes pressure. Becoming 'the next LeBron' demands not just elite performance, but leadership, resilience, and cultural influence.

A New Face for American Basketball?

With international stars like Nikola Jokić and Giannis Antetokounmpo dominating MVP races, there is a growing hunger for a new American superstar. Cooper Flagg represents that hope, a homegrown talent with the skills and mindset to lead both on and off the court.

Whether he lives up to the lofty LeBron comparisons or not, Flagg is already redefining expectations for the modern NBA prospect.

Future Billionaire or Basketball Myth?

Cooper Flagg's net worth may be modest now, but his financial and athletic trajectory points to superstardom. While it is too early to crown him the next LeBron James, he has the talent, opportunity, and public backing to forge a legendary career.

Only time will tell if Flagg becomes a generational icon or just the latest prodigy in a long line of 'next LeBrons'.