Cooper Flagg is one of the most talked-about names in college basketball and he’s only just getting started.
At just 18, the Maine-born phenom has already signed major endorsement deals, taken over college courts, and sparked early NBA buzz before even playing his first March Madness game.
So who is Cooper Flagg, how much is he worth in 2025, and why is he being called the future of American basketball?
Who is Cooper Flagg?
Cooper Flagg, born December 21, 2006, in Newport, Maine, is a basketball prodigy currently playing for Duke University.
Flagg first gained national attention for his dominant performances at Montverde Academy in Florida and as a member of Team USA in international youth competitions.
The 6’9” forward is known for his elite two-way game — combining scoring, shot-blocking, playmaking, and defensive grit in a way that has NBA scouts raving.
He officially committed to Duke in 2023, becoming the most hyped Blue Devil since Zion Williamson.
What is Cooper Flagg’s net worth in 2025?
As of 2025, Cooper Flagg’s exact net worth is not publicly known, as he is still a student-athlete and has not yet entered the NBA.
However, his NIL valuation sits at an impressive $4.8 million, making him one of the most marketable young athletes in the country.
His earnings come from a combination of brand endorsements, social media influence, and his growing popularity as the face of college basketball’s next generation.
What NIL deals does Cooper Flagg have?
Cooper Flagg is leading the new generation of college athletes cashing in on NIL opportunities.
In 2025, his most high-profile deal is with New Balance, where he became one of the brand’s youngest basketball ambassadors.
According to Sporting News, Flagg is also working with several other brands in lifestyle and tech, making him one of the highest-earning NCAA athletes currently in college.
With a $4.8 million NIL valuation, he’s not only dominating on the court but also setting the standard for financial success off of it — all before his 18th birthday.
How old is Cooper Flagg and what’s next for him?
At 18 years old, Flagg is already being compared to NBA greats like Larry Bird, Kevin Garnett, and Luka Dončić for his court vision and intensity.
He’s eligible to enter the NBA Draft in 2026 and is already projected as a potential No. 1 overall pick.
Right now, his focus is on dominating the NCAA with Duke and leading the Blue Devils deep into March Madness.
NBA teams are already scouting his every move, but Flagg has remained humble and focused — regularly crediting his small-town Maine roots and family support system for keeping him grounded.
What makes Cooper Flagg so special?
Cooper Flagg stands out for more than just stats. He has:
- Elite basketball IQ
- Versatile scoring — inside, mid-range, and from three
- Lockdown defense and elite timing as a shot-blocker
- Unselfishness and leadership rare for a teenager
He’s considered a “generational talent” by many scouts — and could be the player to define the next era of American basketball.