Cooper Flagg has already become one of the most talked-about names in basketball. From highlight reels to headlines, the young forward’s rise has been impossible to ignore and it’s only getting started.
Hailing from Maine, his combination of size, skill, and court awareness has drawn early comparisons to NBA greats. he’s proven the buzz isn’t just hype—it’s earned. Coaches, scouts and fans have followed his every move.
After a standout season, he reached a new milestone in 2025: he was selected by the Dallas Mavericks in the Draft. His journey from small-town prodigy to rookie is just beginning, and it’s already one of the sport’s most captivating narratives.
How old is Cooper Flagg?
Born on December 21, 2006, in Newport, Cooper Flagg is 18 years old as of June 2025. Despite his youth, he has already made significant strides in basketball, showcasing his talents at both the high school and collegiate levels.
Cooper Flagg answers questions from reporters during media availability at the 2025 NBA Draft Combine at Wintrust Arena on May 14, 2025. (Source: Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
Cooper Flagg’s family
Cooper hails from a family deeply rooted in basketball. His mother, Kelly Flagg, was a team captain for the University of Maine women’s basketball team during the 1995–1999 seasons. His father, Ralph Flagg, played NJCAA basketball at Eastern Maine Community College.
He also has a twin brother, Ace Flagg, who is a standout player in his own right and has committed to play at the University of Maine starting in the 2025–26 season. Growing up in such a basketball-centric environment, Cooper’s passion for the game was nurtured from an early age, setting the stage for his future success.
How tall is Cooper Flagg?
Standing at 6 feet 9 inches (2.06 meters) and weighing approximately 205 pounds (93 kg), Cooper possesses the physical attributes that make him a formidable presence on the court. His height and athleticism allow him to play multiple positions.
What team did Cooper Flagg play for in college?
Cooper Flagg committed to Duke University, one of college basketball’s most storied programs, known for producing NBA stars and competing at the highest level. Joining Duke for the 2024–25 season, he immediately became a cornerstone of the Blue Devils’ roster.
Cooper Flagg reacts after scoring a three point basket to end the first half against the Arizona Wildcats in the East Regional Sweet Sixteen round of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament in 2025. (Source: Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
Under legendary coach Jon Scheyer, he found the perfect environment to sharpen his skills against elite competition. Duke’s emphasis on development and high-level play accelerated his transition from a top high school prospect to a college standout.
Throughout the season, his ability to impact the game on both ends earned him major recognition, fueling Duke’s deep run in the NCAA Tournament and solidifying his status as a future NBA lottery pick.
Cooper Flagg’s career highlights
- 2025 National College Player of the Year: Flagg’s all-around excellence earned him the highest individual honor in college basketball, distinguishing him as the most valuable player across all programs nationwide. This award reflected not only his scoring but also his leadership and defensive contributions.
- Consensus First-Team All-American: Recognition by multiple media outlets placed Flagg among the elite college players, underscoring his dominance in one of the most competitive seasons in recent memory.
- ACC Player of the Year & ACC Rookie of the Year: In a conference known for future NBA talent, Flagg’s back-to-back honors highlighted his immediate and sustained impact. Winning both awards in the same season is rare and showcased his ability to perform consistently at a high level.
- NABC Freshman of the Year & Lute Olson Award: These accolades from coaches and basketball authorities further cemented Flagg’s reputation as the nation’s top freshman and a player with professional-level skills.
- Julius Erving Award (Top Small Forward): This award recognized his specific position excellence, acknowledging Flagg’s blend of size, skill, and versatility—a modern small forward prototype.
- Wayman Tisdale Award (Top Freshman): Another prestigious freshman honor, highlighting the broad consensus on Flagg’s impact as a newcomer.
- First-Team All-ACC & ACC All-Defensive Team: Flagg’s recognition on both offensive and defensive all-conference teams illustrated his two-way game, critical for a team aiming for championships.
- 2025 NCAA Tournament Performance: Averaging nearly 20 points, 8 rebounds, and 5 assists during the tournament, Flagg’s leadership helped Duke reach the Final Four, showcasing his ability to elevate his game on the biggest stage.
- Historic 42-Point Game vs. Notre Dame: Setting freshman scoring records for Duke and the ACC in a marquee matchup, Flagg demonstrated his scoring explosiveness and clutch ability.
- Consistent 20+ Point Games: Throughout the season, Flagg regularly put up high-scoring performances, providing Duke with reliable offensive firepower.
- Defensive Prowess: Averaging over a block and a steal per game, Flagg’s defensive versatility disrupted opponents and contributed significantly to Duke’s defensive schemes.
