Where is Cooper Flagg from? Exploring 2025 NBA Draft No. 1 prospect's background before joining Montverde Academy

By Raja Chandrasekaran

Modified Mar 27, 2024 15:01 GMT

In the bustling world of basketball, where talent is nurtured and potential shines bright, one name has been making waves across the hoops community - Cooper Flagg, the 2025 NBA Draft's No.1 prospect.

Cooper Flagg is originally from Newport, a town located in Penobscot County, Maine, United States. Flagg's introduction to basketball began against the charming backdrop of his small town, celebrated for its welcoming community and stunning scenery.

Where is Cooper Flagg from ?

Born on December 21, 2006 in Newport, Maine, Flagg's journey to the top of his high school class is a testament to his talent and dedication. Hailing from the vibrant city of Chicago, Illinois, Cooper Flagg's journey to basketball stardom begam at a young age.

Before commencing his freshman year, he completed in the Nike Elite Youth Basketball League (EYBL) with the Florida Eagles, an Amateur Athletic Union squad linked to Montverde, while also earning semifinalist honors for the Naismith Prep Player of the Year Award.

Flagg's passion for basketball blossomed from his youth, influenced by the sports' presence in his family. His father, Ralph, honed his skills at Eastern Maine Community College, while his mother, Kelly, excelled in college ball at Maine, leading the captain's role during her final year.

At Nokomis Regional High School in Maine, Flagg kicked off his high school career. His freshman campaign was marked by leading his team to a Class A state championship, where he exhibited stellar performance (20.5 points, 10.0 rebounds, 6.2 assists, 3.7 blocks, and 3.7 steals per game).

These remarkable displays rightfully bestowed upon him the prestigious distinction of Maine Gatorade Player of the Year.

Where is Flagg attending College?

After completing his freshman year at Nokomis, Flagg made the move to Montverde Academy in Florida, where his excellence persisted. Flagg's exceptional abilities caught the eye of colleges across the country, earning him widespread recognition.

His journey began with Bryant extending his first NCAA Division I scholarship offer while he was still in eighth grade. Despite weighing an offer from UConn, Flagg made his commitment clear on October 30, 2023, choosing to commit to Duke University. He revealed his decision while featured on the cover of SLAM Magazine:

"After I got on campus, I really started to envision myself in Durham. All the love I left made me really excited, seeing all the Crazies and the atmosphere in Cameron. I'm honored that I have the opportunity to join the brotherhood."

Why is Cooper Flagg considered the No. 1 prospect in his high school class ?

Cooper Flagg stands out as the top prospect in his high school class for multiple reasons:

1. Flagg possesses a sharpshooter's accuracy, coupled with a consistently high release point. He displays remarkable offensive skills while maintaining team success over individual glory.
2. His stellar peformance in the 2023 Hoophall Classic, where he clinched the MVP title with 21 points, 5 steals, 5 rebounds, and 3 assists in Montverde's 85-63 triumph over La Lumiere Academy, underscores his impact.
3. Cooper Flagg is poised to become on one of the youngest first-round draft picks ever, expected to be around 18 years and 185 days old, surpassing LeBron James' age as the No.1 overall pick in 2003 by three days.