James has high hopes for Flagg: he is eager to become a great player, but his career starting point is different from mine.

On June 25, Beijing time, James commented on the top draft prospect Flagg during his podcast. He believes Flagg is eager to become a great player, but his career starting point differs from his own. The two had faced off at a USA Basketball training camp.

“I personally believe he has a strong desire to be a great player,” he stated, “he had an exceptional year at Duke. This player can perform various tasks on the court: he can both handle the ball and move without it. His shooting touch will continue to improve, and his athleticism is remarkable, with a very quick second jump.”

James indeed noticed that Flagg's situation differs from his own career starting point.

“Unlike me, he joined a mature team with Hall of Fame players right from the start—Klay Thompson, Anthony Davis, Kyrie Irving, and Hall of Fame coach Jason Kidd. These veterans can directly outline a growth blueprint for him, and he just needs to gradually explore his own development path through learning.”

As the top pick at that time, James averaged 20 points per game as the leading scorer for the Cavaliers, who ultimately ranked fifth in the Central Division, with a roster that included Carlos Boozer, Ricky Davis, and Zydrunas Ilgauskas.

James did not reach the playoffs until his third season, and even then, the team's configuration could not be compared to the Mavericks' healthy lineup in the following season.

“I think it’s incredible to grow in such an environment every day—surrounded by such strong court influence, leadership, and top-notch basketball IQ and experience,” James remarked, “so I firmly believe he will shine.”

The 2025 draft will kick off its first round on June 26, with Flagg already being considered the sole candidate for the top pick.