Before even starting his freshman year at Duke, Cooper Flagg is already making waves in the basketball world with a significant endorsement deal. Projected to be the top pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, Flagg has signed a multi-year contract with New Balance. This deal will include compensation for his college years and extend into his professional career, reflecting his anticipated prominence in the sport.
Flagg’s connection to New Balance is both personal and regional. Raised in Newport, Maine, and later relocating to Montverde, Florida, to attend Montverde Academy, Flagg has a deep-rooted association with the brand. New Balance has a manufacturing facility in Skowhegan, Maine, which is close to Flagg’s hometown, strengthening the bond between the athlete and the company.
The 17-year-old Flagg expressed his appreciation for New Balance’s authentic connection to his community, highlighting how his family’s history with the brand influenced his decision. His mother’s routine visits to New Balance sales for back-to-school shopping played a significant role in establishing his loyalty to the brand.
Flagg joins an impressive roster of New Balance athletes, including NBA stars like Kawhi Leonard, Tyrese Maxey, Jamal Murray, and Cameron Brink. The brand also sponsors notable figures in other sports, such as tennis player Coco Gauff and track athlete Quincy Wilson.
On the court, Flagg had a standout senior year at Montverde Academy, averaging 16.5 points, 7.5 rebounds, 3.8 assists, 3.7 steals, and 3.7 blocks. His performance helped his team achieve a perfect 34–0 record and win a national championship.
Awarded multiple prestigious honors, including Gatorade National Player of the Year, Mr. Basketball USA, and Naismith Prep Player of the Year, Flagg’s potential is further underscored by his impressive performance at Team USA’s pre-Olympic training camp, where he was the only college player selected for the Select Team.
