NBA Dreams for Cooper Flagg, But Mom Kelly Stays True Blue: The Heart of Duke Nation Still Beats from the Sidelines
While Cooper Flagg may soon take the biggest leap of his basketball career — from college phenom to NBA star — one thing remains unwavering off the court: his mother’s loyalty to the Duke Blue Devils.
Kelly Flagg, the mother of the nation’s top NBA prospect and a steady presence on the sidelines, recently opened up to Sports Illustrated about her deep connection to the Duke community — a bond that goes far beyond the basketball court.
“I’m so grateful to the Duke family,” Kelly said. “They embraced not just Cooper, but our entire family. It’s something I’ll carry with me for the rest of my life.”
A Basketball Mom Like No Other
If there were an award for “Most Devoted Basketball Mom,” Kelly Flagg would be the unanimous choice. Over the course of the 2024–25 season, she attended approximately 80 basketball games, balancing travel between her son Cooper’s games at Duke University and those of his twin brother Ace Flagg at Greensboro Day School (N.C.). She missed only nine games total all season — a staggering feat for any parent.
“It was a lot of miles, a lot of bleachers, and a lot of joy,” Kelly joked. “But every minute was worth it.”
Whether it was Cameron Indoor Stadium roaring with Blue Devil pride or a high school gym in North Carolina echoing with the buzz of local fans, Kelly was there — cheering, supporting, and soaking it all in.
The Duke Family Embrace
The Flagg family’s journey into the heart of Duke basketball began the moment Cooper committed to the Blue Devils. From Coach Jon Scheyer and his staff to the Duke student body and alumni, the support was overwhelming — and genuine.
“It felt like home,” Kelly recalled. “It’s more than just a basketball program. It’s a community of people who care.”
That sense of belonging helped ease the pressure of navigating the high-stakes world of elite college basketball and the growing hype surrounding Cooper’s NBA potential.
Cooper’s Meteoric Rise
Cooper Flagg, the 6’9″ forward from Maine, took college basketball by storm in his freshman year, dazzling fans with his versatility, defensive prowess, and court vision. Widely projected as the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, Cooper became the face of Duke basketball and a household name almost overnight.
Yet through it all, his mother remained grounded — focused not on the fame, but on the foundation they’d built as a family.
“What people see on the court is just a fraction of the journey,” she said. “It’s the little moments that matter most — the drives, the dinners, the late-night talks after a tough loss.”
Twin Paths, One Purpose
While Cooper prepares for the NBA Draft, his twin brother Ace is continuing to shine at Greensboro Day School, carving out his own legacy. And Kelly, ever the devoted mom, will be right there courtside for every rebound, steal, and assist.
Her ability to be present for both sons — despite their demanding schedules — is a testament to her resilience and her belief in building lasting memories.
“It’s not always easy,” she admitted. “But I wouldn’t trade this for anything.”
A Blue Devil at Heart
As Cooper inches closer to professional stardom, many expect his time at Duke to be remembered as the launching pad of a legendary career. But for Kelly Flagg, the significance of Duke runs deeper.
Even if her son dons an NBA jersey next season, her loyalty to the Blue Devils will remain unchanged.
“I’ll always be a Duke fan,” she said with a smile. “That’s family now.”
What’s Next?
With the NBA Draft on the horizon and Ace continuing his ascent through high school ranks, the Flagg family’s basketball journey is far from over. But no matter where the road leads, one thing is certain — the Flagg name will remain synonymous with passion, family, and fierce loyalty.
And somewhere in the crowd — camera in hand, cheering loud, heart full — Kelly Flagg will be standing on the sidelines, proudly watching it all unfold.
