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Legendary broadcaster Dan Patrick has found himself at the center of unexpected controversy after making a seemingly harmless comparison between Duke basketball star Cooper Flagg and NBA champion Kevin Love. However, those who actually listened to the full conversation would realize Patrick did nothing wrong.
During Friday's episode of The Dan Patrick Show, the longtime host pondered potential NBA comparisons for Flagg, a projected top pick when he declares for the draft. After some thought, Patrick mentioned Love but with an honest assessment of the high expectations surrounding the young star.
"If you said his career was going to be like Kevin Love's, would that be a disappointment? And it probably would be," Patrick remarked.
As expected, social media erupted in outrage, misconstruing his statement as disrespect toward Love. However, context matters-Patrick wasn't taking a shot at the five-time All-Star and NBA champion. Instead, he was highlighting just how high the bar is set for Flagg.
Kevin Love is a true gentleman
Despite the manufactured outrage, Love responded with pure class, shutting down any controversy and even praising the Duke freshman's talent.
"For those who will take this as a shot at me... I don't take it as such," Love tweeted. "I was pure skill & will. Cooper is far more talented than I ever was and if he stays healthy will have a far better career. He could very well have a statue by the time he's finished. I'm a HUGE fan."
Flagg on his way to suring Love
Love, the 17-year NBA veteran who entered the league as a top-five draft pick in 2008, showed rare humility in an era where many athletes struggle to the torch. Instead of feeding into the drama, he embraced the moment and gave Flagg the ultimate endorsement.
While social media remains divided, one thing is certain-Flagg has the basketball world watching his every move. His next challenge? Leading Duke against Alabama in the Elite Eight on Saturday, where all eyes will be on the young phenom. The Kevin Love comparison? That's just the beginning.