Duke University’s rising star, Cooper Flagg, the top-ranked prospect in ESPN’s 2025 NBA draft class, has recently signed a substantial shoe endorsement deal with New Balance. This partnership holds special significance for Flagg, as New Balance is deeply rooted in his home state of Maine, with a manufacturing facility just 25 miles from his childhood home.
“The familial connection with New Balance, along with its Maine roots, means a great deal to me,” Flagg shared with ESPN. “This makes this deal truly unique and special. My mom used to shop at the company’s tent sale for back-to-school supplies when we were young. This aligns the brand perfectly with my roots, making it an ideal fit.”
Flagg, a remarkable 17-year-old, made the decision to reclassify and enter college a year early, positioning him as a highly anticipated NBA prospect. Standing at 6-foot-9, Flagg is a phenomenal two-way player known for his explosive athleticism, well-rounded skills, and unwavering intensity on the court. His impressive performance at Team USA’s pre-Olympic training camp in Las Vegas, where he was the sole college player and teenager invited, solidified his reputation as a rising star.
The recent changes in name, image, and likeness rules have paved the way for more frequent endorsement deals like this for elite prospects like Flagg. New Balance has a history of partnering with top young athletes across various sports, including Coco Gauff, Tyrese Maxey, and Quincy Wilson.
“As a younger kid, I dreamed of moments like this,” Flagg told ESPN. “It’s an incredible opportunity, and I’m truly blessed and grateful to be in this position.”
Flagg’s senior season at Montverde Academy in Florida was nothing short of exceptional, earning him the Gatorade National Player of the Year award. He averaged an impressive 16.5 points, 7.5 rebounds, 3.8 assists, 3.7 steals, and 3.7 blocks per game.
