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The Bulls' season isn't done just yet. A win over Miami on Wednesday keeps Chicago alive in the Play-In Tournament, and that's where the focus is-at least on the court. Off it? Fans are already turning one eye toward the lottery, and one name is dominating the conversation.
The Duke freshman just wrapped up a historic season, becoming the first freshman to win the Wooden Award. And if you're wondering whether the hype matches the reality, Coby White says it doesn't even come close-Flagg might actually be underrated.
"I think he's better than d," White told Brandon "Scoop B" Robinson this week. "No matter who he's on the court with, he has that ability to raise his level of play."
UNC star, Duke respect: A rare moment of praise
White, a North Carolina alum and fierce Blue Devils rival, didn't hold back. With the Bulls guard putting together a breakout stretch-24.5 points per game since the All-Star break-he sees Flagg as an ideal piece to build with.
"He's all about basketball, he's all about the right things," White added. "He knows what goes into winning and he's done it at every level."
Flagg's skill set has scouts raving. ESPN's Jonathan Givony called him "one of the most NBA-ready forwards in recent memory," projecting him to go first overall in the draft. With elite size, defensive versatility, and advanced shot-making, the 18-year-old is already being labeled as a future franchise player.
The Bulls only have a 1.2% shot at the top pick, per Tankathon. But stranger things have happened-just ask Derrick Rose. Chicago jumped to No. 1 back in 2008 with similar odds.
If the Bulls fall short of the playoffs,May 12 becomes must-watch TV in Chicago. And if their lottery ball bounces the right way? They'll have a star already vouching for Flagg's potential. Even if that star wears Tar Heel blue.