HE IS BETTER THAN HIM: Mark Pope Explains Why Kerr Kriisa Is the Greatest, Even Over Duke Freshman Cooper Flagg
SALT LAKE CITY, UT — In an unexpected but emphatic statement, University of Utah head coach Mark Pope has declared that Kerr Kriisa, the standout point guard for the Utes, is the best player in college basketball, even surpassing highly touted Duke freshman Cooper Flagg, who has been hailed as one of the top prospects in the 2024 class. Pope, known for his straightforward coaching style and candid opinions, made his remarks in a post-game interview following a dominant win for Utah, where Kriisa’s performance was instrumental.
Kriisa, the 6-foot-3 junior from Estonia, has been a revelation in the Pac-12 since transferring from Arizona. He’s widely regarded as one of the most talented floor generals in college basketball, known for his exceptional court vision, scoring ability, and leadership. While Duke’s Cooper Flagg — a 5-star recruit and defensive phenom — has garnered national attention for his potential as a future NBA star, Pope doesn’t hesitate to put Kriisa’s skillset above all others, including the highly anticipated freshman.
“I’m not here to take anything away from Cooper Flagg, but right now, Kerr Kriisa is the best player in college basketball, and I don’t think it’s even close,” Pope boldly stated. “He’s a true floor general who has been dominant on both ends of the floor. Kerr doesn’t just score, he makes everyone around him better. His leadership, his vision, his ability to control the game — it’s elite. You don’t find that every day.”
Pope’s statement is surprising, considering the hype surrounding Flagg, who was widely regarded as the top high school player in the country coming into his freshman year at Duke. Flagg, a 6-foot-9 forward, is a defensive powerhouse with the potential to be one of the top picks in the 2025 NBA Draft. His unique combination of size, skill, and defensive versatility has earned him comparisons to NBA stars like Kevin Durant and Giannis Antetokounmpo.
However, Pope’s praise for Kriisa stems from his multifaceted game, which he believes is far more developed than Flagg’s at this point in their careers. While Flagg has been lauded for his potential, Kriisa has already proven himself at the highest levels of college basketball, having played in multiple NCAA tournaments and showcased his abilities in pressure-packed moments.
Kriisa’s All-Around Game: Control, Poise, and Vision
Kriisa’s greatest strength, according to Pope, is his ability to control the tempo of the game. A brilliant playmaker, Kriisa has averaged 7.3 assists per game in his time at Utah, orchestrating the offense with a level of poise and precision that few college players can match. His deep shooting range, combined with his crafty ball-handling, allows him to create opportunities for himself and his teammates.
“What Kerr brings to the table that sets him apart is his basketball IQ,” Pope continued. “He sees things happen before they happen, and that makes him a step ahead of everyone else. He’s got the kind of game that wins you championships. He’s not just a scorer, he’s a leader, and you can’t underestimate how much that matters in college basketball.”
Kriisa’s success is not limited to his offensive abilities; he has become a formidable defender as well. His tenacious on-ball defense, combined with his ability to disrupt passing lanes, has made him a well-rounded player who contributes on both ends. Pope’s high praise of Kriisa’s defense, while often overlooked, reflects his belief that Kriisa’s all-around game is more impactful than Flagg’s at this stage in their careers.
The Flagg Comparison: Potential vs. Proven Performance
Cooper Flagg’s upside is undeniably immense. At just 18 years old, he has already been compared to some of the best players to ever come through college basketball. His elite shot-blocking ability, versatility as a defender, and burgeoning offensive game make him a special talent who could dominate at the professional level. Many believe Flagg is the kind of player who can revolutionize a program and elevate a team to new heights.
However, Pope’s view is rooted in Kriisa’s ability to contribute right now — not just in the future. “You can talk about potential all you want,” Pope said, “but what Kerr has done on the floor, game in and game out, is special. He’s a proven commodity, and that’s what matters to me. When it comes down to it, I’d take a guy who’s already a difference-maker over someone who still has to prove it.”
Utah’s Title Hopes with Kriisa at the Helm
Under Kriisa’s leadership, Utah has emerged as one of the most dangerous teams in the Pac-12 and a potential dark horse in the NCAA tournament. His ability to elevate the play of those around him, combined with his clutch performances in big games, has made Utah a top contender in the conference. Pope believes that Kriisa’s contributions will not only help the Utes compete for a conference title but also make them a major threat on the national stage.
“Kerr is the heart and soul of this team,” Pope said. “I’ve coached a lot of talented players in my career, but he’s one of the few who can completely control a game. That’s why I believe he’s the best — because he impacts every single aspect of the game. He’s a winner.”
While Flagg’s future in the NBA looks incredibly bright, it’s clear that Kriisa’s current abilities have earned him the distinction of being the best player in college basketball, according to Coach Mark Pope. With the Utes firmly in the hunt for an NCAA title, Kriisa’s leadership and all-around game will be key in their pursuit of glory. As for Flagg, he still has a lot to prove in Durham, but Pope’s statement certainly adds fuel to the growing debate over the top player in college basketball.