Cooper Flagg has officially secured his place among the top rising stars in basketball, as he was awarded the prestigious Gatorade Male Player of the Year award. This accolade further solidifies his status as one of the brightest young talents in the sport today. At just 17 years old, Flagg joins an elite group of athletes who have won this award in the past, including NBA superstars like LeBron James, Jayson Tatum, and Karl-Anthony Towns. Flagg’s journey to the top has been marked by his tireless work ethic and his ability to shine on both the national and international stages.
For Flagg, winning the Gatorade Player of the Year was more than just a personal achievement — it was a moment of pride shared with his family and mentors. “It’s an honor to take home this award, and having it handed to me by some of the biggest names in basketball makes it even better,” Flagg said. “The list of former Gatorade Best Players of the Year speaks for itself, so it’s special to put my name next to theirs.” His recognition has catapulted him into the spotlight, and it’s clear that his story is just beginning.
Flagg’s victory is even more significant when considering the trajectory of his career. Back in his freshman year, he won the Gatorade Player of the Year award for basketball in Maine, a huge honor in itself. But now, as a senior, he has taken home the national title, a testament to his growth and improvement over the years. “It shows more than just what you’re doing on the court,” Flagg explained. “It takes it outside and shows who you are as a person in your community.” His ability to balance his academic and athletic commitments while remaining a positive influence in his community is part of the reason he stands out as a role model for others.
When it comes to his favorite Gatorade flavor, Flagg gave a simple but definitive answer: “Yellow.” Whether it’s fueling his intense workouts or rehydrating after a long game, the classic lemon-lime flavor seems to be his go-to choice. This small yet insightful tidbit adds a bit of personality to Flagg, showcasing his laid-back nature even amidst the hype surrounding his name.
Flagg credits much of his success to his parents, who both played basketball and supported him every step of the way. His mother played for the University of Maine, and her influence, along with that of his father, shaped his love for the game from a young age. “Just having that influence, playing in the driveway with both my parents at times, was invaluable,” Flagg shared. “They helped me every step of the way, giving me advice about what it takes to succeed and supporting me in everything I do.” The guidance from his family has been a crucial element in his development as a player and as a person.
As a member of the Team USA Select Team, Flagg had the opportunity to showcase his talents alongside some of the best players in the world. This experience helped to further boost his confidence. “It was a huge opportunity for me to share the court with players at that level,” Flagg said. “I was already confident, but it definitely just stamps [it] even more in my mind, giving me more confidence moving forward.” The experience of competing against top-tier talent gave him a newfound perspective on the game and reinforced his belief in his abilities.
Despite being seen as a future NBA star, Flagg doesn’t let the external noise affect his mindset. When asked about feeling snubbed after hearing about Kawhi Leonard’s selection for Team USA, he took a gracious approach. “I don’t feel snubbed at all,” Flagg said. “Derrick White is an exceptional player. He obviously earned it. So I just give props to him. I’m excited for him and hopeful they win the gold medal.” This humility and sportsmanship show Flagg’s maturity beyond his years and reveal a young athlete who is focused on teamwork and growth rather than personal accolades.
When asked about his basketball idols, Flagg acknowledged a mix of legends and current stars who have influenced his style of play. “When I was really young, watching the Warriors vs. Cavs stuff, I saw LeBron, Curry, KD. Those were some of my favorite players,” he recalled. “More recently, I’ve really followed Jayson Tatum as a Celtics fan, so watching him bring success has been really cool.” These influences are evident in his game, which combines versatility, skill, and basketball IQ, much like the players he admires.
With the NBA Draft looming in the future, Flagg’s name has already been linked to the top picks. However, he remains unfazed by the expectations placed on him. “Mock drafts and things like that, I don’t really take into account at all,” Flagg explained. “It is what it is. I’m just focused on getting into June next year. I’m staying grounded, staying humble, staying focused, and trying to get better every day.” His ability to stay focused on the present while ignoring the distractions of future projections speaks to his maturity and dedication to continuous improvement.
As for his future at Duke University, Flagg is excited to join the Blue Devils and continue developing his game. “I wouldn’t say I have a favorite Blue Devil,” he said, showcasing his team-first mentality. However, he did acknowledge the support he’s received from former players, particularly Jayson Tatum. “Tatum definitely reached out,” Flagg revealed. “I saw him at his camp last year, even before I was committed. The advice he gave me was really cool to hear. Everyone I’ve met from the Brotherhood has been welcoming.” This sense of camaraderie and mentorship is something that Flagg values as he prepares for his upcoming freshman season.
Flagg’s future at Duke is filled with potential, and his arrival in Durham is highly anticipated. As he prepares to take the next step in his basketball career, the eyes of the basketball world will be watching closely. Whether he’s leading the Blue Devils to a national championship or further cementing his place as the top NBA prospect, one thing is certain — Cooper Flagg’s journey is just beginning, and it’s bound to be an exciting ride.
Off the court, Flagg has already begun to make waves in the sneaker world, with many anticipating which brand he will sign with. “There’s a lot of options, and I’ve got to figure out what’s best for me,” he said. With his growing influence and popularity, Flagg’s eventual sneaker deal is sure to be one of the most talked-about partnerships in basketball.
Ultimately, Cooper Flagg is much more than just a basketball player. He’s a young man who has consistently shown maturity, grace, and humility, both on and off the court. As his career continues to skyrocket, his dedication to his craft, his family, and his community will undoubtedly set him apart as a leader in the sport. The next few years will be pivotal for Flagg, but if his past achievements are any indication, he’s poised for greatness.