Cooper Flagg Sparks Debate After Naming Caitlin Clark to His WNBA Mount Rushmore
As the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, Cooper Flagg is already making waves off the court with his bold basketball opinions. The Dallas Mavericks rookie recently stirred up debate when he included Indiana Fever phenom Caitlin Clark in his personal WNBA Mount Rushmore—a choice that has divided fans and analysts alike.
Flagg’s WNBA & NBA Legends List
During a recent interview, Flagg was asked to name his four greatest WNBA players of all time. His selections?
- Candace Parker (2x MVP, 2x Champion)
- Brittney Griner (9x All-Star, 2x Defensive Player of the Year)
- A’ja Wilson (2x MVP, 2x Champion)
- Caitlin Clark (2024 No. 1 pick, NCAA all-time scoring leader)
Flagg explained his reasoning:
“Candace Parker, Brittney Griner, I think A’ja Wilson is on there, and then I might put Caitlin Clark on there, just because she has changed the game so much and is heading in the right direction. I just love what she has been able to do.”
For comparison, Flagg’s NBA Mount Rushmore featured:
- Larry Bird
- Michael Jordan
- LeBron James
- Kobe Bryant
Fan Reactions: Praise & Pushback
The inclusion of Clark, who is still in her rookie season, sparked immediate reactions:
Critics argued:
- “WNBA Mount Rushmore wouldn’t even have BG, A’ja, or Clark—but he’s 18, so I get it.”
- “These Caitlin Clark takes are getting out of hand. Let her earn her place in history first.”
- “He definitely just named the only four WNBA players he knows.”
Supporters countered:
- “Cooper Flagg knows hoops—he recognizes Clark’s impact.”
- “CC rightfully in Mount Rushmore—she’s revolutionizing the game.”
- “Respect for giving Clark her flowers early.”
Flagg’s Own Path to Stardom
While Clark has already become the WNBA’s biggest attraction, Flagg faces a different challenge as he prepares for his NBA debut with the Mavericks. The 6’9″ forward, often compared to Larry Bird for his all-around game, will team up with Anthony Davis and potentially Kyrie Irving in Dallas.
Unlike Clark—who entered the league as a ready-made superstar—Flagg may need time to adjust. But if his fearless takes are any indication, he’s not afraid of bold expectations.
The Bigger Picture
Flagg’s comments highlight how Clark has transcended basketball, becoming a cultural icon in record time. While some believe her Rushmore inclusion is premature, others argue her generational impact on viewership, merchandise sales, and youth engagement justifies the nod.
As for Flagg? His willingness to speak his mind suggests he’s ready for the spotlight—both on and off the court. Whether he reaches Clark-level fame remains to be seen, but one thing’s clear: The next generation of NBA and WNBA stars isn’t waiting for permission to make history.