For months, basketball fans and analysts have been speculating about Cooper Flagg’s future. The 6’9” phenom has been the subject of relentless media attention, with many predicting he could be the top pick in the upcoming NBA Draft. But through it all, one voice remained silent—until now. In a heartfelt and revealing interview, Cooper’s mother, Kelly Flagg, finally spoke out about her son’s meteoric rise and the pressures that come with it.
“It’s been surreal,” Kelly said softly, as she reflected on Cooper’s journey. “You watch your child fall in love with the game in the driveway, then suddenly he’s on every sports network. It’s overwhelming, but it’s also beautiful.” Her voice cracked slightly, betraying the emotions that have been building over the past few years.
Cooper Flagg, a native of Newport, Maine, became a household name after dominating high school basketball and earning national accolades. With a relentless work ethic and a versatile game, the 17-year-old has already drawn comparisons to NBA legends. But Kelly insists that, off the court, Cooper is still the same humble, grounded kid who just wants to compete and make his family proud.
“I never imagined it would come this fast,” she admitted. “As a mom, you try to keep your child’s world normal. But when the NBA starts calling, it changes everything. Suddenly, you’re talking to agents, scouts, and media outlets nonstop. It’s a lot to handle.”
One of the most challenging parts, Kelly said, has been protecting her son’s peace. “People forget that he’s still a teenager. There are days when he’s tired, when he just wants to be a kid. But the pressure never stops.” She added that her family has leaned heavily on faith, community, and each other to navigate the chaos.
While the spotlight grows brighter, Kelly remains fiercely protective. “It’s easy to lose yourself in all the hype,” she said. “But Cooper knows who he is. We’ve always taught him that character matters more than fame, and that hard work will take you further than any headline.”
As the NBA Draft approaches, speculation about where Cooper will land intensifies. Some say he’s a lock for the No. 1 pick, while others believe he may benefit from another year of development. Kelly says they are trusting the process and taking it one step at a time. “He has great mentors and a strong team around him. We pray about every decision.”
Kelly also spoke about the importance of mental health. “We’ve had real conversations about pressure, anxiety, and expectations. Cooper’s learning that it’s okay to ask for help. That vulnerability doesn’t make you weak—it makes you human.”
Despite the pressure, she says Cooper is excited about the future. “He loves the game. That’s what keeps him going. No matter what happens in the draft, he’s ready to give it everything he’s got.”
Looking back, Kelly can’t help but get emotional. “From those snowy nights in Maine to now—this journey has been incredible. I’m proud of the player he’s become, but more importantly, I’m proud of the man he’s becoming.”
As the world waits to see where Cooper Flagg’s path leads next, one thing is clear: behind every great athlete is a strong support system. And in Cooper’s case, that begins with a mother who never stopped believing in her son’s dreams.
