Larry Bird on Cooper Flagg: “That Kid Reminds Me of a Young Me”
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NBA legend Larry Bird has never been one to throw around praise lightly, but when it comes to Cooper Flagg, the Hall of Famer is making an exception. In a recent interview, the Boston Celtics icon had high words for the rising NCAA star, drawing an unexpected and powerful comparison to his own early days on the hardwood.
“That kid reminds me of a young me,” Bird said, referring to Flagg’s poise, IQ, and impact on the game. “The way he sees the floor, the confidence, the edge—he’s got that same fire I had when I was just getting started. If I were coaching the Celtics, I’d do everything to bring him to Boston.”
Flagg, the projected No. 1 pick in the upcoming NBA Draft, has been turning heads with his performances in the NCAA. Whether or not he brings home the trophy, one thing is certain: he’s become the name to watch in college basketball. With explosive athleticism, elite defense, and a maturity that belies his age, Flagg is already drawing comparisons to all-time greats.
For Bird, who carried the Celtics to three championships and redefined forward play in the NBA, Flagg’s potential is more than just hype—it’s history in the making.
“Just look at what he’s doing in college,” Bird continued. “He’s not just playing the game, he’s changing it. Mark my words, Cooper Flagg is going to be talked about for a long time in NBA history. Trophy or not, that kid’s the real deal.”
The Celtics legend also offered a bit of wistful reflection, imagining what it would be like to work with Flagg personally.
“If I ever got to coach in Boston again, he’d be my first call. The Celtics need a guy like that—hungry, smart, and built for the big moments. He fits Boston. He fits the legacy.”
As the NCAA season heats up and draft buzz intensifies, Bird’s endorsement only adds fuel to the fire surrounding Flagg’s future. If one of the game’s most respected voices is this confident, fans and franchises alike would be wise to listen.
Because when Larry Bird says someone’s going to make history… you better believe him.
