Duke University’s Cooper Flagg has taken the college basketball stage by storm during his freshman year, proving that he’s not just another highly-touted recruit but a player to watch. Averaging an impressive 19.0 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game while shooting 48.7% from the field, Flagg has demonstrated both versatility and skill, marking him as a standout performer this season. His all-around game has made him a dual threat; he’s just as formidable on defense as he is scoring from anywhere on the court. In fact, some scouts have likened his playing style to that of Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard, which speaks volumes about his potential.
As the college basketball landscape shifts with the annual NBA Draft approaching, Flagg rises to the top of many experts’ lists as the #1 overall prospect. His combination of size, strength, and basketball IQ makes him an enticing option for teams looking to bolster their rosters with young talent.
The hype around Flagg is palpable, especially as he’s performed exceptionally well in the 2025 NCAA March Madness tournament, where he’s averaged 20.7 points per game. His recent standout performance included a massive 30-point outing against Arizona, leading his team to a thrilling 100-93 victory—a game that solidified his star status on this national stage.
Off the court, Flagg embodies star power, boasting over 1 million Instagram followers and a strong fanbase that extends beyond basketball. His marketability is on the rise, fueled by lucrative NIL deals with major brands like Fanatics, Gatorade, and New Balance.
It’s noteworthy that, while Duke is a Nike-sponsored school, Flagg’s commitment to New Balance remains intact. He navigates this by wearing Nike during games while still promoting New Balance off the court. It’s a arrangement that not only showcases his versatility but also hints at exciting possibilities for his future, perhaps even featuring a signature shoe line if he continues on this trajectory.
With Coop Flagg potentially becoming the face of New Balance alongside a star-studded roster that includes names like Kawhi Leonard, the brand stands to gain significant attention with him at the helm. As he prepares for what could be a transformative leap into the NBA, one thing is clear: Flagg is not just making noise in college basketball—he’s building a legacy that could resonate across the sport for years to come. The basketball world is watching closely, and if his performance is any indication, Cooper Flagg is destined to be a name we’ll hear a lot more of in the near future.
